Coffee cake—that irresistible blend of moist crumb, sweet glaze, and comforting coffee aroma—is a breakfast or brunch favorite. But who has time for scratch baking every time a craving hits? This recipe uses a yellow cake mix as a shortcut, delivering all the deliciousness with significantly less effort. This method isn't about sacrificing quality; it's about clever efficiency, letting you enjoy a homemade treat without the lengthy prep.
What You'll Need:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- Ingredients listed on the cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 cup sour cream (or plain yogurt for a tangier twist)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or a mix are excellent)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of your delicious cake.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sour cream (or yogurt) and vanilla extract. This adds moisture and enhances the flavor profile.
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Mix the Batter: Add the contents of the yellow cake mix to the bowl with the sour cream mixture. Gradually incorporate the oil, eggs, and water as specified on the cake mix box. Mix until just combined; don't overmix.
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Incorporate Nuts: Gently fold in the chopped nuts. This adds texture and a delightful crunch to your coffee cake.
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Prepare the Crumble Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar and melted butter. Mix until well blended and crumbly. This creates the signature coffee cake topping.
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Assemble & Bake: Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the crumble topping evenly over the batter. Add the remaining batter, then top with the rest of the crumble mixture.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent over-baking.
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Cool & Serve: Let the coffee cake cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a cup of coffee (naturally!).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
While yellow cake mix is ideal for this recipe, you can experiment with other flavors like spice cake or even chocolate cake mix for a unique twist. Just be aware that the flavor profile will change.
What if I don't have sour cream?
Plain yogurt is an excellent substitute for sour cream. It will yield a slightly tangier flavor, but it will still work wonderfully. You could also use applesauce, though it will result in a slightly denser cake.
Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! Consider adding chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or raisins to the batter for extra flavor and texture. A sprinkle of cinnamon in the crumble topping is also delicious.
How can I make it ahead of time?
This coffee cake can be made a day ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It’s best served at room temperature, but you can gently warm a slice if you prefer it warm.
What kind of glaze can I add?
While the crumble topping is delightful on its own, you could add a simple powdered sugar glaze after the cake has cooled. Just whisk together powdered sugar with a little milk or lemon juice until you reach your desired consistency.
This easy coffee cake recipe offers a delicious shortcut to a homemade treat without compromising on taste or texture. Enjoy experimenting with different additions and variations to make it your own!
