Easy Cinnamon Coffee Cake

This Easy Cinnamon Coffee Cake is just what you need. It’s a buttery, moist cake with a swirl of cinnamon sugar and a crumbly streusel topping, finished off with a sweet glaze.

Whether you’re preparing it for a weekend breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a special occasion, this cake is guaranteed to impress with its rich flavor and irresistible texture.

Plus, it’s easy to make with a box of cake mix, making it a foolproof choice for bakers of all skill levels.

Ingredients List

For the Streusel:

• 1 cup finely chopped pecans
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (1 stick) butter, cut into small cubes and chilled (salted or unsalted butter both work)

For the Cake:

• 1 (15.25 ounce) box yellow cake mix
• 1 (3.4 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup water
• 4 large eggs

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Required Kitchen Tools

When making this Cinnamon Coffee Cake, having the right kitchen tools can help you achieve a perfectly baked cake. Here are the essential tools you’ll need for this recipe:

1. Bundt Pan: A Bundt pan is the best option for this recipe, as it ensures even baking and creates a beautiful shape for your cake.
2. Electric Mixer: To blend the ingredients and create a smooth cake batter, an electric mixer (stand or hand) is key. It helps achieve the right texture quickly.
3. Wire Rack: Once the cake is done, a wire rack is necessary to cool the cake evenly. This prevents moisture from collecting at the bottom and keeps the cake from getting soggy.
4. Small Bowl: A small bowl is used to mix the glaze ingredients together before drizzling it over the cooled cake.

With these tools in place, you’ll be set for a smooth baking experience.

Cake Preparation

Creating the perfect Cinnamon Coffee Cake starts with mixing the right ingredients together to achieve a fluffy and tender texture. Follow these steps to prepare the cake batter and streusel for a delicious end result.

Making the Streusel

The streusel topping is a key element of this coffee cake, adding a perfect crunch and sweetness to every bite. Here’s how to prepare it:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the finely chopped pecans, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. The chopped pecans should be small enough to blend evenly into the streusel, but not powdered. (Tip: If you’re using pre-chopped pecans, pulse them a few times in a food processor to make them smaller.)
2. Add Butter: Cube your chilled butter into small pieces, and add it to the dry ingredients. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine the mixture until it forms a crumble that resembles wet sand. Be sure that the butter is fully incorporated with no dry pockets of flour. Set the streusel aside while you prepare the cake batter.

Mixing the Cake Batter

Now, let’s get that cake batter ready! This part is simple and quick, especially with the help of a cake mix.

1. Combine Cake Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, vanilla pudding mix, vegetable oil, water, and eggs. Using an electric mixer, begin mixing on low speed for about 30 seconds to combine the ingredients.
2. Beat the Batter: Increase the speed to medium-high and beat the mixture for about 2 minutes. The batter should be smooth and well-blended. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.

Assembling the Cake

Now that you have your streusel and cake batter ready, it’s time to assemble the cake for baking. Layering the streusel with the cake batter creates a delicious cinnamon-sugar swirl inside, making every slice a perfect treat.

Layering the Cake and Streusel

1. Prepare the Bundt Pan: Grease and flour your Bundt pan generously. This will help the cake come out easily after baking. (Tip: You can also use a non-stick baking spray designed for bundt pans for extra assurance.)
2. First Layer of Streusel: Sprinkle half of the streusel mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. This layer will form the top of the cake once it’s inverted after baking, so make sure it’s spread out well.
3. Add the Cake Batter: Carefully spoon half of the cake batter over the streusel layer. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan.
4. Second Layer of Streusel: Sprinkle the remaining streusel evenly over the cake batter, covering it completely.
5. Final Layer of Batter: Spoon the remaining cake batter on top of the streusel, smoothing it out with your spatula. Don’t worry if it’s a little messy – it will all come together beautifully when baked.

Baking the Cake

1. Bake the Cake: Place the Bundt pan in the oven and bake at 350°F for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should have a golden brown color, and the streusel should be slightly crispy on top.
2. Cool the Cake: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully invert the cake onto the wire rack and let it cool completely for at least 2 hours before glazing.

Adding the Glaze

The glaze is the perfect finishing touch that brings sweetness and a glossy shine to your cinnamon coffee cake. Here’s how to make and add it:

Making the Glaze

1. Whisk Together the Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and lump-free. The consistency should be pourable but not too runny, so adjust the amount of milk if needed.
2. Drizzle Over the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top. The glaze will cascade down the sides, creating a sweet, shiny finish that looks as good as it tastes.

Serving and Decoration

This Easy Cinnamon Coffee Cake is just as delicious on its own, but if you’re looking to elevate the presentation or flavor, here are a few serving suggestions:

• Powdered Sugar: For a light and simple touch, dust the top of the cake with additional powdered sugar before serving.
• Extra Cinnamon: Sprinkle a bit of extra cinnamon or cinnamon sugar on top of the glaze for a more pronounced cinnamon flavor.
• Serve with Coffee: Since this is a coffee cake, pairing it with a hot cup of coffee or tea makes for the perfect snack or dessert.

Storage Instructions

Once your cake is ready to enjoy, you may have some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Here’s how to store it:

• Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It will remain moist and delicious for several days after baking.
• Freezing: If you want to store it for a longer period, freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. The cake can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature for the best texture.

Conclusion

This Easy Cinnamon Coffee Cake is a must-try for anyone who loves a warm, flavorful cake with a satisfying crumb and sweet glaze. Whether you’re preparing it for breakfast, a coffee break, or as a treat for a special occasion, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and a touch of cinnamon magic, you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade cake in no time. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a slice of comfort!