Yellow Cake Mix Coffee Cake Recipe: The Easiest, Most Delicious Brunch Treat!

Craving a warm, comforting coffee cake but short on time? This Yellow Cake Mix Coffee Cake recipe is your answer! It’s unbelievably easy to make, using a simple yellow cake mix as the base and transforming it into a show-stopping brunch centerpiece (or a delightful afternoon treat). Forget complicated recipes and long ingredient lists. This recipe delivers a moist, buttery, and utterly irresistible coffee cake with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or anytime you need a quick and satisfying dessert. Get ready to impress everyone with this incredibly simple yet remarkably delicious coffee cake!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a winner for several reasons:

• Convenience: Using a yellow cake mix drastically cuts down on prep time. No need to measure out individual dry ingredients!
• Moisture: The addition of sour cream or Greek yogurt ensures a super moist and tender crumb. Say goodbye to dry, crumbly coffee cakes!
• Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, sugar, and a touch of nutmeg creates a classic coffee cake flavor profile that everyone loves.
• Versatility: This recipe is easily customizable! Add nuts, fruit, or even chocolate chips to personalize it to your liking.
• Foolproof: Even novice bakers can achieve success with this simple and straightforward recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
• 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Streusel Topping:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. Alternatively, you can use baking spray with flour.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Mix the Batter: Beat with an electric mixer until well combined and smooth. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Prepare the Streusel Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using).
5. Cut in the Butter: Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. If using nuts, stir them in now.
6. Assemble the Coffee Cake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
7. Add the Streusel: Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the cake batter.
8. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool: Let the coffee cake cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a tough coffee cake. Mix until just combined.
• Cold Butter is Key: Using cold butter for the streusel topping is crucial for creating those crumbly, delicious clusters.
• Adjust Baking Time: Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Start checking for doneness around 30 minutes and adjust accordingly.
• Use Quality Ingredients: While this recipe is simple, using good quality ingredients will enhance the flavor.
• Let it Cool: Allowing the coffee cake to cool slightly before slicing prevents it from crumbling and allows the flavors to meld together.
• Add a Glaze (Optional): For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled coffee cake. Combine 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk or lemon juice until you reach your desired consistency.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a teaspoon of almond extract to the batter or a pinch of cardamom to the streusel for a unique twist.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store the coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
Refrigerator: For longer storage, store the coffee cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Freezer: You can also freeze the coffee cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQ

Can I use a different cake mix?

Yes, you can experiment with other cake mix flavors such as white, chocolate, or spice cake. Keep in mind that the flavor of the coffee cake will change accordingly.

Can I use melted butter for the streusel topping?

No, melted butter will not create the desired crumbly texture. Cold butter is essential for a good streusel topping.

Can I make this coffee cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and gluten-free all-purpose flour for the streusel topping. Be sure to check the labels of all ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

Can I add fruit to this recipe?

Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples would be delicious additions. Add about 1 cup of fruit to the batter before pouring it into the pan.

My streusel topping is burning. What should I do?

If the streusel topping is browning too quickly, tent the coffee cake with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.

Can I use a different size pan?

While a 9×13 inch pan is recommended, you can use an 8×8 inch or 9×9 inch pan. The baking time may need to be adjusted slightly. The coffee cake will be thicker if you use a smaller pan.

Conclusion

This Yellow Cake Mix Coffee Cake recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity, combined with its delicious flavor and moist texture, makes it the perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, need a quick dessert, or simply want a comforting treat, this recipe is sure to satisfy. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of the easiest and most delicious coffee cake you’ve ever made! Enjoy!