If you're looking for a quick and delicious treat, this Cake Mix Coffee Cake is just the thing! I remember one Sunday morning when my son, Jake, woke up and asked if we could bake something special together. This simple cinnamon swirl delight became our go-to recipe, and now it's a family favorite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s super easy to make with just a few ingredients.
- The cinnamon swirl adds a delightful flavor that pairs perfectly with coffee.
- You can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for unexpected guests.
Pure Comfort
There’s something about the warm aroma of cinnamon and sugar that wraps around you like a cozy blanket. This cake is pure comfort, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
What You Need
- 15.25 oz 1 box yellow cake mix – Any brand will do; just check for the best price.
- 8 oz 1 cup sour cream – Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute.
- 4 oz 1/2 cup vegetable oil – Can substitute with melted coconut oil.
- 3 3 large eggs – Room temperature eggs work best.
- 7 oz 1 cup brown sugar – Light or dark brown sugar is fine.
- 2 tsp 2 tsp ground cinnamon – Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
- 4 oz 1 cup powdered sugar – Optional for a sweet glaze.
- 1 oz 2 tbsp milk – Use any milk you have on hand.
Time to Cook
Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 30 minutes | Total: 45 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: You can prepare the batter a day in advance.
Steps to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 350 °F. Greasing a 9×13 inch baking pan will help the cake come out easily. You can also line it with parchment paper for extra protection.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, sour cream, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. You want the batter to be thick and well-blended.
- In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together. This will create the delicious cinnamon swirl that makes this cake special. The aroma will be irresistible!
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan. Spread it evenly, and then sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top. This layering is key to achieving that delightful swirl.
- Carefully pour the remaining batter on top, smoothing it out. Then, sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter. You can use a knife to gently swirl it in for a beautiful marbled effect.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be lightly golden, and your kitchen will smell heavenly.
- Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps it set and makes it easier to slice. If you want, you can drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk on top before serving.
Make It Perfect
- For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the batter.
- If you’re short on time, you can skip the glaze and enjoy the cake as is.
- This coffee cake is best served warm, but it’s still delicious at room temperature.
Mix It Up
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Try using a chocolate cake mix instead for a chocolatey twist.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
- Pair with fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas.
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FAQs
Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a day in advance and bake it fresh in the morning.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this coffee cake?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
You can substitute Greek yogurt or buttermilk if needed.
What makes this a coffee cake?
Coffee cakes are typically meant to be enjoyed with coffee, and they often have a sweet, crumbly topping or swirl, like this one!
Conclusion
This Cake Mix Coffee Cake is a simple cinnamon swirl delight that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of coffee or sharing it with family, it’s sure to bring smiles all around. Give it a try and make it your new go-to recipe!
Cake Mix Coffee Cake Simple Cinnamon Swirl Delight
Equipment
- Oven
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Main
- 15.25 oz yellow cake mix Any brand will do; check for best price
- 8 oz sour cream Greek yogurt can be used as substitute
- 4 oz vegetable oil Can substitute with melted coconut oil
- 3 large eggs Room temperature eggs work best
- 7 oz brown sugar Light or dark brown sugar is fine
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth
- 4 oz powdered sugar Optional for a sweet glaze
- 1 oz milk Use any milk you have on hand
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 °F and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Combine yellow cake mix, sour cream, vegetable oil, and eggs in a large mixing bowl and mix until smooth and creamy.
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon together in a separate bowl to make the cinnamon swirl.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly, then sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top.
- Pour the remaining batter on top and smooth it out, then sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture and gently swirl it with a knife.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is lightly golden.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing. Optionally, drizzle a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk on top before serving.