Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake

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If you’ve ever craved a buttery, cinnamon-swirled coffee cake without the fuss of measuring and mixing from scratch, this Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake will become your new favorite. It’s the perfect solution for busy mornings, weekend brunches, or a last-minute dessert that still tastes homemade. Using a boxed cake mix as the base means less work and consistent results every time, but with a few simple upgrades, it transforms into something truly special.

The contrast between the soft, tender cake and the crumbly cinnamon streusel topping is what makes each bite irresistible. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile. You can add nuts, swap the glaze for powdered sugar, or drizzle it with a bit of maple syrup for an extra cozy twist.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake

This recipe combines the ease of a cake mix with the nostalgic flavor of classic coffee cake. It’s beginner-friendly and takes only a few minutes to prep. Plus, it fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of warm cinnamon and vanilla while baking. The crumb topping stays buttery and crisp, and the soft cake underneath keeps everything balanced.

Whether you’re hosting brunch or just want a cozy slice with your morning coffee, this one never disappoints.

What Kind of Cake Mix Should I Use?

A yellow cake mix is the classic choice for this coffee cake, as it gives a buttery and rich flavor that pairs beautifully with cinnamon. However, a white or vanilla cake mix can also be used if that’s what you have on hand. Spice cake mix adds another layer of warmth, and if you’re a chocolate lover, don’t be afraid to try devil’s food for a mocha-inspired variation.

Ingredients for the Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake

A few basic ingredients are all it takes to bring this comforting cake together. Here’s what you’ll need:

Yellow cake mix
This is the base of the recipe, saving you time without compromising on taste.

Eggs
They help bind the batter and give the cake structure and richness.

Sour cream
Adds moisture and gives the cake that slightly tangy note, making it taste homemade.

Vegetable oil
For a soft, moist crumb. You can also use melted butter if you prefer a richer flavor.

Brown sugar
Used in the streusel topping, it adds a warm molasses sweetness and helps with that perfect crumbly texture.

Ground cinnamon
The star spice for coffee cake, it adds cozy warmth and depth.

Butter
Combined with brown sugar and cinnamon to make a buttery streusel topping.

Powdered sugar + milk (optional glaze)
Drizzle on top for a sweet finish that brings everything together.

How To Make the Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, sour cream, and oil. Mix until smooth and well incorporated. The batter will be thick and creamy.

Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping

In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until it forms a sandy texture. This is your cinnamon swirl and topping.

Step 3: Layer and Swirl

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour half of the batter into the dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter. Add the remaining batter, smoothing it out, and top with the remaining streusel. Use a butter knife to gently swirl the layers together.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Glaze (Optional)

Let the cake cool slightly before mixing powdered sugar and milk to create a glaze. Drizzle over the warm cake before serving.

How to Serve and Store This Coffee Cake

This Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake feeds about 12 people and is best served warm, straight from the oven or slightly reheated. It pairs beautifully with a fresh cup of coffee or tea and can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

To store, allow the cake to cool completely. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and keep at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back that just-baked taste.

What to Serve With Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake?

Fresh Fruit Salad

The light and juicy sweetness of berries or melon cuts through the richness of the cake perfectly.

Greek Yogurt with Honey

Creamy, slightly tangy yogurt adds a refreshing balance, especially with a drizzle of honey.

Soft Scrambled Eggs

If you’re serving this as part of a brunch spread, soft eggs make a savory contrast to the sweet cake.

Maple Glazed Bacon

That sweet and salty combo is a match made in heaven next to cinnamon cake.

Cinnamon Latte

Play into the warm spice flavors with a cinnamon-infused coffee drink.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Want to make this a dessert? A scoop of ice cream takes it there.

Apple Compote

Warm spiced apples over a slice of coffee cake is just about the coziest way to enjoy it.

Nutty Granola

Adds a crunchy, earthy sidekick to the soft and moist cake.

Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If this cozy classic inspired you, here are some other irresistible bakes you’ll want to try:

• Southern Banana Cobbler Recipe when you want gooey fruit and buttery crust.
• Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls for a fruity, creamy brunch treat.
• Hot Fudge Brownie Bread when chocolate cravings strike.
• Rhubarb Shortbread Bars for a tart-sweet summer twist.
• Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls when you’re baking for two.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try it with the glaze or go classic with powdered sugar? Add chopped pecans or walnuts? I’d love to hear how you made it your own.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

This Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake is everything you want in a comfort bake: quick, satisfying, and packed with warm cinnamon flavor. With minimal ingredients and maximum payoff, it’s one of those recipes you’ll keep in your back pocket for any occasion.

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