If you have a soft spot for cozy, cinnamon-swirl treats that brighten up your morning or make any snack time special, this Mix Coffee Cake Recipe is your new best friend. It’s the kind of cake that feels like a warm hug — moist, tender, and bursting with a cinnamon sugar filling that’s perfectly balanced by a smooth vanilla glaze. Best of all, it’s remarkably easy to whip up, making it an absolute winner whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a seasoned baker. Let’s dive into why this recipe has earned a top spot in so many hearts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients come together to create the magic of the Mix Coffee Cake Recipe. Each one plays an essential role: from build-up of the cake’s soft texture to the rich cinnamon sugar layers and the sweet final glaze that ties everything perfectly.
- Yellow cake mix (15.25 ounces): The base of our cake, providing a fluffy, buttery crumb with minimal fuss.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 ounces): Adds extra moisture and a hint of creamy vanilla, making the cake irresistibly tender.
- Large eggs (4): Bind everything together and provide structure.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Brings tangy richness that keeps the cake moist and tender.
- Vegetable oil (1/2 cup): Ensures a soft texture without weighing the cake down.
- Water (1/2 cup): Hydrates the batter; can be swapped with milk for richer flavor.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens and forms the sparkling cinnamon sugar layers.
- Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): The star spice for that warm, fragrant swirl.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (1/2 cup, optional): Adds crunch and earthiness, enhancing texture and flavor.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Creates a smooth, glossy glaze that melts into the cake’s surface.
- Milk (2 tablespoons): Thins the glaze to the perfect consistency.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Gives the glaze a lovely aroma and depth.
How to Make Mix Coffee Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by setting your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and lightly flour either a 9×13-inch baking pan or a bundt pan to ensure your cake comes out cleanly and keeps its perfect shape after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, instant vanilla pudding mix, eggs, sour cream, vegetable oil, and water. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the ingredients for 2 to 3 minutes until the batter is smooth and creamy — this step is crucial to guarantee that luscious texture throughout.
Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Filling
Whisk together the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and your chosen nuts (if using) in a small bowl. This mixture will add sweetness, spice, and a delightful crunch that make the Mix Coffee Cake Recipe especially irresistible.
Step 4: Layer the Batter and Filling
Pour half of the batter into your greased pan. Evenly sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture atop the batter. Next, add the remaining batter on top, followed by the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture. Use a knife to gently swirl the topping through the batter — this creates that classic marbled effect that is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Step 5: Bake Until Perfect
Bake the cake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool slightly before moving on to the glaze — patience at this step ensures your glaze will melt beautifully rather than soak in immediately.
Step 6: Make and Drizzle the Glaze
Combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl, whisking until smooth. Drizzle this luscious glaze over the warm (but not hot) cake to add that lovely glossy finish and extra hint of sweetness that makes each bite unforgettable.
How to Serve Mix Coffee Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few extra chopped nuts or a light dusting of cinnamon on top to add visual appeal and an extra pop of flavor. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent twist.
Side Dishes
This coffee cake pairs wonderfully with a steaming cup of coffee or your favorite herbal tea. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit or yogurt to balance the sweetness and add freshness to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the cake into bite-size squares for a party platter or layering slices with fresh berries and whipped cream to create a layered trifle. This cake also makes a charming gift when wrapped with a simple ribbon and some parchment paper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Mix Coffee Cake Recipe covered at room temperature for up to three days. Storing it this way preserves the moisture and rich texture beautifully without drying it out.
Freezing
You can freeze the coffee cake if you want to save it for later. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When frozen, it will keep well for up to three months without losing its wonderful texture.
Reheating
Thaw frozen slices at room temperature before reheating. Warm individual pieces in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds to regain that freshly baked softness. Avoid overheating so you keep the tender crumb intact.
FAQs
Can I substitute sour cream with something else?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt or crème fraîche make excellent substitutes that maintain moisture and add tang, though they may slightly alter the flavor.
Is it okay to use milk instead of water?
Definitely. Using milk instead of water adds richness and depth of flavor, making your Mix Coffee Cake Recipe even more indulgent.
Can I omit the nuts?
Yes, the nuts are optional. The cinnamon sugar alone provides plenty of texture and flavor, but nuts do add that delightful crunch if you’re a fan.
How do I store the cake if I don’t plan to eat it in one go?
Store it covered at room temperature if eating within a few days, or freeze wrapped tightly for longer storage. This helps the cake stay moist and tasty.
Can I use a different cake mix?
Yellow cake mix works best for this recipe, but you can experiment with white or even spice cake mixes for interesting flavor variations.
Final Thoughts
This Mix Coffee Cake Recipe is such a delightful way to bring warm, tender sweetness into your home with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or just a sweet pick-me-up, it’s sure to become a fast favorite in your recipe box. Give it a go—you might just find yourself baking it again and again!
Print
Mix Coffee Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy Mix Coffee Cake is a moist, flavorful cake made with a simple combination of yellow cake mix and instant vanilla pudding. Swirled with a cinnamon sugar filling and topped with a sweet glaze, it’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any time you want a comforting treat.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 ounces)
- 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 ounces)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup water
Cinnamon Sugar Filling and Topping
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the pan. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or bundt pan to ensure the cake does not stick.
- Mix the cake batter. In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, instant vanilla pudding mix, eggs, sour cream, vegetable oil, and water. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes until smooth and well combined.
- Prepare cinnamon sugar mixture. In a small bowl, stir together the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped nuts if using. This mixture will be used to swirl into the cake for added flavor and texture.
- Layer the batter and cinnamon sugar. Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top, followed by the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter for a marbled effect.
- Bake the cake. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. This ensures that the cake is fully baked but still moist.
- Cool the cake and prepare the glaze. Let the cake cool slightly in the pan. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth to form the glaze.
- Glaze and serve. Drizzle the prepared glaze evenly over the cooled cake. Slice and serve the cake once the glaze has set.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, substitute the water with milk in the batter.
- Add chocolate chips to the cinnamon sugar filling for an extra indulgence.
- The cake stays moist for several days when stored covered at room temperature.
