Name: Cake Mix Coffee Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box yellow cake mix; 1 cup sour cream; 4 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup brown sugar (packed); 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional); 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Have you ever craved a homemade coffee cake but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? This Cake Mix Coffee Cake is the perfect solution! With its moist, fluffy texture and irresistible cinnamon streusel topping, it delivers all the comfort and flavor of a classic coffee cake — without the fuss. Whether you’re planning a relaxed brunch, a quick breakfast, or just need a sweet treat with your afternoon coffee, this easy recipe comes together in no time.

Using a simple cake mix hack and a few pantry staples, you’ll create a bakery-quality dessert with minimal effort. So, why not grab your favorite mug, preheat the oven, and let’s bake something truly special?

Key Benefits of This Cake Mix Coffee Cake

Why do we love this Cake Mix Coffee Cake so much? Let me count the ways! This recipe isn’t just delicious — it’s a total game-changer when you want homemade flavor without the extra work. Here’s why you’ll want to make this again and again:

Quick and Easy: Using a yellow cake mix saves time without sacrificing taste, so you can whip this up in minutes.
Moist and Fluffy Texture: Thanks to sour cream and a perfect blend of ingredients, every bite is soft, tender, and packed with flavor.
Irresistible Cinnamon Streusel: The sweet, crunchy topping made with brown sugar, cinnamon, and (optional) pecans adds a bakery-style touch you’ll crave.
Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for brunches, holidays, potlucks, or a cozy afternoon snack with coffee. This cake fits any occasion.
Customizable: Want to switch up the flavors? Add vanilla extract, a handful of chocolate chips, or swap the pecans for walnuts — the options are endless!

If you love simple recipes that taste like they came from your favorite bakery, this cake mix coffee cake is about to become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this Cake Mix Coffee Cake is how simple the ingredient list is — you probably have most of these in your pantry already! Each one plays a key role in creating that perfect balance of soft, moist cake and sweet, crunchy topping.

For the Cake:

1 box yellow cake mix – The ultimate shortcut for a quick, fluffy base with rich flavor.
1 cup sour cream – Adds moisture and a slight tang, making the cake tender and soft.
4 large eggs – They help the cake rise and create a light, airy texture.
1/2 cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist without being too heavy.

For the Cinnamon Streusel:

1 cup brown sugar (packed) – Gives the topping its signature sweetness and rich, caramel-like flavor.
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – The warm, cozy spice that makes every bite irresistible.
1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional) – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty contrast. Feel free to swap for walnuts or leave them out if you prefer.

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar – Creates a smooth, sweet drizzle that ties everything together.
2 tablespoons milk – Helps achieve the perfect glaze consistency — adjust for thicker or thinner drizzle.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – A hint of vanilla brings extra depth and warmth to the glaze.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to make this irresistible Cake Mix Coffee Cake? Let’s do it! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, bakery-style treat fresh from your oven in no time.

1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Cake Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine:

1 box yellow cake mix
1 cup sour cream
4 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil

Beat the mixture with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and well combined — about 2-3 minutes. The batter should be thick and creamy.

3. Make the Cinnamon Streusel:
In a separate bowl, stir together:

1 cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Mix until everything is evenly combined. This sweet, spiced mixture is what gives the cake its signature crunchy topping and warm flavor.

4. Layer the Batter and Streusel:

Pour half of the cake batter into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Sprinkle half of the cinnamon streusel over the batter, making sure to cover it well.
Gently spread the remaining cake batter on top, then finish with the rest of the streusel. Don’t worry if the top layer isn’t perfectly smooth — it’ll bake beautifully!

5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing!

6. Cool and Glaze:
Let the cake cool for about 10-15 minutes before adding the glaze. While it’s cooling, whisk together:

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake, letting it seep into all those delicious nooks and crannies.

7. Slice and Enjoy:
Once the glaze sets, slice into squares and serve! Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea, and savor every soft, cinnamon-filled bite.

Pro Tips and Variations

Want to take your Cake Mix Coffee Cake to the next level? These pro tips and creative variations will help you customize the recipe and get the perfect result every time.

Pro Tips for Perfect Coffee Cake:

Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your eggs and sour cream sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing. This helps everything blend smoothly and creates a more consistent texture.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake — and we’re aiming for light and fluffy!
Even Streusel Layers: Sprinkle the cinnamon streusel evenly so every bite gets a perfect mix of soft cake and sweet crunch.
Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking at 35 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Fun and Tasty Variations:

Add Fruit: Fold in 1 cup of diced apples or blueberries into the batter for a fresh, fruity twist.
Nut-Free Option: Skip the pecans if you prefer or replace them with toasted coconut for a different texture and flavor.
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Sprinkle chocolate chips into the streusel or the batter for a gooey, sweet surprise.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the streusel for even more warm, cozy flavor.
Cream Cheese Swirl: Dollop sweetened cream cheese into the batter and swirl it with a knife before baking for a rich, tangy twist.

Serving Suggestions

Now that your Cake Mix Coffee Cake is fresh out of the oven and ready to go, let’s talk about the best ways to serve it. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of coffee or sharing it at a brunch gathering, here are some creative ideas to elevate your cake experience!

Classic Pairings:

Fresh Brewed Coffee or Tea: There’s nothing quite like a slice of cake paired with a hot drink. Go for a strong black coffee or a smooth cup of tea — the cake’s sweet, spiced flavor complements both perfectly.
Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of berries or a few sliced bananas for a fresh, fruity contrast that balances the cake’s sweetness.
Whipped Cream: Top each slice with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for added richness and a little extra indulgence.
Ice Cream: For a more decadent treat, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream — it’s an easy way to turn this cake into a dessert that’s both warm and cold.

For Brunch or Potluck:

Serve in Squares or Slices: Cut your cake into squares for easy sharing or into wedges for a more elegant presentation. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit at your next brunch gathering or potluck.
Drizzle Extra Glaze: For that extra bit of sweetness, drizzle additional vanilla glaze over each slice just before serving — it adds a shiny, sweet finish that looks just as good as it tastes.

Make It Festive:

Holiday Twist: For the holidays, consider topping the cake with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or adding a few cranberries on top for a festive touch.
Custom Toppings: You can also get creative with other toppings like chopped nuts, toffee bits, or even a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a fun variation.

Whether you’re savoring it solo or sharing it with loved ones, this cake is guaranteed to impress. So, grab your plates, get creative, and enjoy your delicious, homemade treat!

Conclusion

This Cake Mix Coffee Cake is more than just a quick dessert; it’s a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy morning, a cozy brunch, or a special gathering, this cake’s moist texture, cinnamon streusel topping, and sweet vanilla glaze are sure to win over anyone who takes a bite. Plus, with its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again.

The best part? You can customize it in so many ways — from adding a fruit filling to swapping out nuts or even mixing in chocolate chips for a fun twist. No matter how you serve it, this cake delivers the comforting, homemade flavor we all crave.

If you’re in the mood for more simple yet delicious desserts, check out this Peanut Butter Cup Dump Cake here for another easy treat that combines rich chocolate and peanut butter in a single dish. Or, if you’re planning for the holidays, you might want to explore these Easter Desserts here to inspire your next sweet celebration.

And if you love baked goods like this, don’t miss out on these Lemon Cream Scones here — they’re the perfect addition to any brunch table.

So, go ahead and give this cake a try! Bake it for yourself, or share it with friends and family. Trust me, this cake mix coffee cake is about to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy every sweet, cinnamon-filled bite!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cake mix?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for a yellow cake mix, you can easily substitute it with other flavors like vanilla or butter cake mix. Just keep in mind that the flavor of the cake will change slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!

2. How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make this coffee cake gluten-free, you can swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free cake mix. Just be sure to double-check the other ingredients for any hidden gluten, such as in the glaze or the streusel topping.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this cake actually tastes great when made ahead! You can bake it a day in advance, just store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Drizzle the glaze on top right before serving for the best result.

4. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze this cake for later! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw at room temperature and add the glaze just before serving.

5. How long will this coffee cake stay fresh?
This cake stays fresh for about 3-4 days at room temperature in an airtight container. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. It’s still delicious even after a few days — just make sure to warm it up slightly before serving if you prefer it warm!

6. Can I make this cake without the glaze?
Of course! The glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness, but the cake is perfectly delicious even without it. If you prefer a lighter option, feel free to skip the glaze and just enjoy the cake as is!

Cake Mix Coffee Cake: Simple, Sweet, and Absolutely Perfect

Table of Contents

Key Benefits of This Cake Mix Coffee Cake