Are you craving a warm, comforting coffee cake but short on time? This recipe uses a yellow cake mix as a base, providing a simple yet delicious shortcut to a classic treat. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy baking times; this method delivers incredible flavor and texture with minimal effort. Perfect for brunch, afternoon tea, or a casual dessert, this coffee cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
What Makes This Coffee Cake So Special?
This recipe leverages the convenience of a yellow cake mix while elevating it to a truly special coffee cake. The addition of simple ingredients transforms a basic mix into a moist, flavorful, and undeniably delicious dessert. The streusel topping adds a delightful crunch and sweetness that perfectly complements the cake's soft interior. It’s the best of both worlds – ease of preparation and impressive results.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- One box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- Ingredients listed on the cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, and water)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. Prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package directions.
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Make the Streusel Topping: In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the cinnamon and flour until just combined. Fold in the pecans or walnuts, if using.
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Assemble the Coffee Cake: Pour the prepared cake batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter.
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Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool and Serve: Let the coffee cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with a cup of coffee or tea!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
While yellow cake mix works best for this recipe, you can experiment with other flavors like spice or even chocolate cake mix for a unique twist. Keep in mind that the flavor profile of the cake will change accordingly.
What if I don't have pecans or walnuts?
No problem! The streusel topping is delicious even without nuts. You can omit them entirely, or substitute with other chopped nuts like almonds or macadamia nuts. Seeds, like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, also work well.
How can I make this coffee cake more moist?
For an extra moist coffee cake, consider adding a tablespoon or two of sour cream or applesauce to the batter. This will add moisture and richness to the cake. You could also increase the amount of oil slightly as directed on the cake mix box.
Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake this coffee cake a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It's best served at room temperature, although reheating a slice in the microwave for a few seconds is always a nice touch!
How do I store leftover coffee cake?
Store leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough coffee cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Evenly distribute the streusel: Ensure the streusel topping is evenly distributed over the batter for even baking and delicious texture.
- Check for doneness: Start checking the coffee cake for doneness around the 30-minute mark. Every oven is different, so it's important to check with a wooden skewer to ensure it's baked through.
This easy coffee cake recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious treat without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of a simple cake mix base and a flavorful streusel topping creates a dessert that is both satisfying and impressive. Enjoy!
