This Mix Coffee Cake is a delightful treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon with a moist, tender crumb. The cinnamon swirl adds a burst of flavor, while the crumble topping provides a satisfying crunch. It’s the perfect companion to your afternoon coffee or a sweet addition to your breakfast table.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and yields delicious results. The combination of simple ingredients and easy preparation makes it a go-to choice for any occasion. Plus, the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is an added bonus.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1½ cups all-purpose flour
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½ cup granulated sugar
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2 tsp baking powder
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¼ tsp salt
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½ cup milk
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⅓ cup vegetable oil
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1 large egg
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1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
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⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
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1 tbsp ground cinnamon
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1 tbsp melted butter
For the Crumble Topping:
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¼ cup all-purpose flour
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¼ cup brown sugar
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2 tbsp cold butter, cut into small pieces
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¼ tsp ground cinnamon
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch square baking pan.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
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In a separate bowl, combine the milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
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Prepare the cinnamon swirl by mixing brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter in a small bowl.
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Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the cinnamon swirl mixture evenly over the batter. Then pour the remaining batter on top and spread gently to cover the swirl.
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To make the crumble topping, mix the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this evenly over the top of the batter.
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Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Let the cake cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 280 kcal per serving
Servings: 9 servings
Few things bring more comfort and warmth to a kitchen than the smell of freshly baked coffee cake wafting from the oven. Whether it’s a slow Sunday morning or an afternoon coffee break, Mix Coffee Cake is a timeless classic that embodies home baking at its finest. With its tender crumb, cinnamon-infused swirl, and buttery crumble topping, this cake is a go-to treat that’s both easy to make and universally loved.
A Versatile Treat for Every Occasion
Mix Coffee Cake isn’t just limited to pairing with a cup of coffee. While its name might suggest otherwise, it’s just as fitting served as a brunch item, a light dessert after dinner, or a thoughtful addition to a potluck or bake sale. Its soft, moist texture and hint of spice make it an all-day treat that fits seamlessly into any part of your routine.
The cinnamon swirl inside gives it a comforting flavor reminiscent of cinnamon rolls, while the crumb topping adds a gentle crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender cake beneath. It’s the kind of treat that makes people ask for the recipe and leaves them wanting more.
The Magic of Cinnamon and Crumb
The secret behind the irresistible nature of this cake lies in the harmony between the moist base, the sweet cinnamon swirl, and the crumbly streusel topping. Cinnamon, often regarded as a spice of comfort and nostalgia, plays a starring role here. It not only enhances the flavor but also brings warmth and depth to each bite.
The streusel topping, made from flour, butter, sugar, and a touch of cinnamon, creates a delightful crust as it bakes. This topping melts slightly into the top layer of the cake, forming that irresistible golden layer that makes every slice so satisfying. The result? A cake that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Why It’s Called “Coffee Cake” (Even Without Coffee)
Despite its name, coffee cake typically doesn’t contain any coffee in the batter. So why the label? The answer lies in tradition. In many cultures, particularly in Europe and North America, “coffee cake” is simply a cake meant to be enjoyed with a cup of coffee. It’s a companion to your morning brew, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a cozy evening treat.
This style of cake became especially popular in the United States during the 19th century, influenced by German and Scandinavian immigrants who brought their own styles of sweet, yeasted cakes meant for enjoying with coffee. Over time, American coffee cakes evolved to include baking powder or soda, creating fluffier textures and easier preparation and eventually morphing into the kind of quick, buttery cakes we love today.
Perfect for Beginners and Experts Alike
One of the standout features of Mix Coffee Cake is how beginner-friendly it is. With simple pantry staples like flour, sugar, eggs, and cinnamon, this recipe is accessible even to those who are just starting out in the kitchen. The mixing is straightforward — no fancy techniques or equipment needed which means less stress and more enjoyment.
At the same time, experienced bakers appreciate the flexibility of this cake. It can be easily modified to suit dietary needs or flavor preferences. Some love adding a handful of chopped nuts or a sprinkle of chocolate chips into the batter or topping. Others experiment with alternative flours or natural sweeteners to give it a healthier twist.
A Crowd-Pleaser with Endless Variations
Another reason this recipe remains a favorite is its adaptability. While the classic cinnamon version is always a hit, you can get creative with flavors and mix-ins. Here are a few fun variations to consider:
- Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake: Add finely chopped apples to the batter for a fruity twist that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon.
- Blueberry Crumb Cake: Mix fresh or frozen blueberries into the batter and reduce the cinnamon slightly for a summer-friendly version.
- Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake: Stir in mini chocolate chips and add a cocoa touch to the crumble for a more indulgent option.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to both the swirl and the topping for added texture and flavor.
With so many possibilities, you can make this cake again and again without it ever feeling repetitive.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Mix Coffee Cake stores beautifully, making it a great option for make-ahead baking. If stored in an airtight container at room temperature, it stays fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.
To freeze, simply wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy a piece, allow it to thaw at room temperature or give it a quick warm-up in the microwave. The cake retains its moistness and flavor, making it a smart addition to your meal prep or baking rotation.
Pairing Suggestions
While a classic cup of coffee is the obvious choice to serve alongside Mix Coffee Cake, there are plenty of other delicious options to try:
- Tea Lovers’ Choice: A spiced chai or a smooth black tea like Darjeeling complements the warm cinnamon notes beautifully.
- For the Kids: Serve it with a cold glass of milk or a warm mug of cocoa for an after-school snack or a cozy family dessert.
- Brunch Beverage: Try it with a sparkling mimosa or a fresh orange juice to elevate your brunch table.
The cake’s mildly sweet flavor profile and soft texture allow it to pair well with many drinks, making it a versatile favorite for gatherings.
The Nostalgic Power of Simple Baking
What makes this cake especially special is the way it evokes memories of childhood, of weekend mornings spent baking with a parent or grandparent, or of sitting at the kitchen table with a warm slice and good conversation. In today’s fast-paced world, baking something from scratch, especially something as nostalgic and unfussy as Mix Coffee Cake, offers a chance to slow down and savor the moment.
Many people who make this cake for the first time find themselves making it again and again not just because it’s delicious, but because it becomes part of their own traditions. Whether it’s served for breakfast, at a holiday gathering, or just as a sweet pick-me-up during a busy week, this cake brings people together in the simplest and sweetest of ways.
Conclusion: A Staple Worth Keeping in Your Recipe Box
Mix Coffee Cake is more than just a simple baked good — it’s a celebration of home, comfort, and timeless flavor. With its easy preparation, versatile nature, and satisfying combination of textures and tastes, it’s a recipe that deserves a permanent place in your kitchen.
Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just because you’re in the mood for something sweet, you’ll find that it always hits the right note. From the first warm bite to the last cinnamon-kissed crumb, this coffee cake is a reminder that some of the best moments in life are the ones shared over a slice of homemade cake.