Yellow Cake Mix Coffee Cake

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Yellow Cake Mix Coffee Cake 🍰☕

Introduction

Yellow Cake Mix Coffee Cake is a delicious and easy-to-make treat that combines the soft, moist texture of a traditional cake with the crumbly, sweet goodness of a classic coffee cake. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy evening with coffee or tea, this cake is a go-to for those who love a rich, buttery flavor with a hint of vanilla and cinnamon.

Coffee cake has a long history, with roots tracing back to Europe, where sweet cakes were often served alongside coffee. Over time, American bakers developed their own versions, incorporating cake mixes for convenience while maintaining the signature streusel topping. This recipe takes the best of both worlds—using a boxed cake mix for an effortless base while adding homemade elements for that perfect homemade touch.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 box (about 15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Streusel Topping:

  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For the Glaze (Optional):

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, sour cream, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
  2. Mix until smooth and well combined. The batter will be thick—this is normal!

Step 3: Make the Streusel Topping

  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
  2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Stir in the chopped nuts if using.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

  1. Spread half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish.
  2. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping evenly over the batter.
  3. Add the remaining cake batter on top, spreading gently.
  4. Finish with the remaining streusel topping.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

  1. Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  2. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before adding the glaze.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk (or heavy cream), and vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. Drizzle over the slightly cooled coffee cake.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Slice into squares and serve warm with a cup of coffee or tea.

Methods Used in This Recipe

  • Creaming Method: The butter, eggs, and sugar are mixed together to create a smooth batter.
  • Streusel Mixing Method: Butter is cut into the dry ingredients to form a crumbly texture.
  • Layering Method: The batter and streusel topping are layered to create distinct flavors and textures.

History of Coffee Cake

Coffee cake dates back to 17th-century Europe, where German, Scandinavian, and Dutch bakers developed sweet cakes to enjoy with coffee. The American version evolved to include cinnamon, nuts, and sometimes fruit, creating the classic streusel-topped coffee cake we love today. Modern recipes often use cake mixes for convenience while keeping the traditional elements intact.

Who Will Love This Cake?

  • Coffee Lovers ☕: A perfect treat to enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or espresso.
  • Busy Bakers ⏳: The cake mix shortcut makes it quick and easy to prepare.
  • Sweet Tooths 🍯: The cinnamon-sugar streusel and glaze create the ultimate indulgence.
  • Brunch Hosts 🏡: An ideal dish to serve guests at breakfast or brunch gatherings.
  • Kids & Families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦: A simple, fun recipe that everyone will enjoy.

Conclusion

Yellow Cake Mix Coffee Cake is the perfect balance of convenience and homemade flavor. The soft, buttery cake pairs beautifully with the sweet and crunchy cinnamon streusel, making it an irresistible addition to any breakfast table. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this cake is sure to become a family favorite.

So, grab a cup of coffee, cut a generous slice, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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