Moist Yellow Coffee Cake with Sour Cream Made from Cake Mix

Benefits and Advantages of Cake Mix Coffee Cake

Cake mix coffee cake offers a convenient and effective way to enjoy a delicious treat with minimal effort. Its ease of preparation makes it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers. The use of pre-made cake mix significantly reduces preparation time, allowing you to enjoy a freshly baked coffee cake faster than traditional recipes. Health benefits can be amplified by choosing mixes with lower sugar content or incorporating whole grain options.

This recipe stands out due to its perfect balance of moistness and crumbly texture, making it a delightful accompaniment to morning coffee or afternoon tea. Additionally, the cake mix coffee cake can easily accommodate various dietary preferences without compromising flavor, making it versatile and appealing to a broad audience. Overall, its simplicity, adaptability, and satisfying taste contribute to its popularity and effectiveness as a go-to recipe.

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Essential Ingredients for Cake Mix Coffee Cake

This cake mix coffee cake recipe requires the following ingredients:

  • 2 cups of cake mix (gluten-free or regular options available)
  • 1 cup sour cream or a vegan alternative like coconut yogurt
  • 2 large eggs or flax eggs for a vegan substitute
  • ½ cup vegetable oil or any neutral-tasting oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to enhance flavor

For the crumb topping:

  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ⅓ cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ cup cold butter or vegan butter substitute

These ingredients provide the moist consistency and crumbly topping characteristic of coffee cakes. Low-calorie options include reduced-fat sour cream or applesauce instead of oil. Vegan ingredients enable adaptations without compromising taste, allowing all readers to enjoy this delightful cake mix coffee cake.

cake mix coffee cake

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Cake Mix Coffee Cake

To accommodate different dietary needs, substitutions can be made to the classic cake mix coffee cake recipe:

  • Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free cake mix and substitute all-purpose flour in the crumble topping with gluten-free flour.
  • Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water equaling one egg) and use plant-based yogurts instead of sour cream.
  • Low-calorie: Substitute oil with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat while maintaining moisture.
  • Dairy-free: Use dairy-free butter alternatives in the crumble topping and select suitable plant-based yogurt substitutes.

These substitutions preserve the coffee cake’s flavor and crumbly texture while extending its appeal to various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy a personalized and delicious coffee cake.

cake mix coffee cake

How to Prepare the Perfect Cake Mix Coffee Cake: Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan to avoid sticking.
  2. Mix the batter: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of cake mix, 1 cup of sour cream (or vegan alternative), 2 eggs (or flax eggs), ½ cup oil, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir well until the batter is smooth and combined.
  3. Pour half the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
  4. Prepare the crumb topping: Mix ½ cup brown sugar, ⅓ cup flour (or gluten-free substitute), 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ¼ cup cold butter (or vegan butter) with a fork or pastry cutter until coarse crumbs form.
  5. Sprinkle half of the crumb topping evenly over the batter in the pan.
  6. Add remaining batter over the crumb layer and gently spread to cover.
  7. Top with the rest of the crumb mixture.
  8. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  9. Cool the cake in the pan for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Adjust baking times slightly depending on pan size or when using gluten-free cake mixes. This method guarantees a moist, tender coffee cake with a delicious crumb topping every time.

For additional breakfast recipe ideas, visit our Blueberry Coffee Cake recipe.

Advanced Tips and Variations

To achieve the best results and customize your cake mix coffee cake, consider these helpful tips and ideas:

  • Add nuts for crunch: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the crumble topping or sprinkle some over the assembled cake before baking for added texture and flavor.
  • Include fresh or dried fruit: Mix diced Granny Smith apples or berries into the batter or topping to bring bursts of natural sweetness and moisture.
  • Enhance flavor with spices: Add cinnamon to both the batter and crumble for warm, familiar notes. For a richer flavor, consider adding espresso powder or almond extract alongside vanilla.
  • Keep butter cold: Use chilled butter when making the crumble topping to ensure crisp, crumbly results instead of a doughy texture.
  • Try vegan substitutions: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use plain coconut yogurt instead of sour cream for a dairy-free twist.
  • Simplify assembly: For an easier version, spread the entire batter in the pan, then evenly sprinkle the crumble topping on top prior to baking.
  • Speed up baking time: To make muffins, layer batter and crumble topping in muffin tins and bake at 425°F for 8 minutes, then continue baking at 350°F for an additional 15 minutes.

These tips and variations enable you to tailor the dessert to your liking without losing the signature moist texture and delicious crumble of a classic cake mix coffee cake.

How to Store Cake Mix Coffee Cake: Best Practices

Proper storage helps maintain your coffee cake’s moistness and crisp topping, enabling satisfying leftovers and easy preparation for later enjoyment:

  • Room temperature storage: Keep the cooled, unfrosted cake in an airtight container for up to two days without compromising texture.
  • Refrigeration: For longer freshness, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. Remove and let it come to room temperature or warm gently before serving.
  • Freezing: Wrap the cake securely in plastic film and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to three months without significant loss of flavor or texture.
  • Reheating tips: Thaw frozen cake overnight in the refrigerator, then warm individual slices in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or in an oven preheated to 300°F for approximately 10 minutes to revive freshness and crumbly texture.
  • Avoid moisture buildup: Ensure the cake has completely cooled before wrapping or covering to prevent sogginess due to condensation.

Nutritional Value of Cake Mix Coffee Cake

Each serving of this cake mix coffee cake provides a balanced blend of nutrients typical of a satisfying dessert:

NutrientPer Serving (Approximate)
Calories360–400 kcal
Carbohydrates47–56 g
Protein4–5 g
Fat16–18 g (Saturated fat 7–11 g)
Cholesterol40–74 mg
Sodium290–350 mg
Fiber1–2 g
Sugar32–38 g

This cake mix coffee cake is moderate in calories with a good balance of carbohydrates and fats. Using whole grain or lower-sugar cake mixes can improve nutritional aspects, making it a delightful treat that can fit within various dietary goals when enjoyed mindfully.

cake mix coffee cake

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Cake Mix Coffee Cake

What ingredients do I need to make cake mix coffee cake, and can I substitute any of them?

You9ll need a yellow cake mix, 1 egg, 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, 14milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for the batter. The crumble topping includes flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, salt, and cold butter. Protections for dietary needs include substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream, using vegan butter, or adding nuts or fruit for extra texture and flavor.

How do I prepare and assemble the crumble topping for coffee cake?

Mix the dry ingredients flour, sugars, cinnamon, and salt then cut in cold cubed butter until pea-sized crumbs form. To assemble, spread half the batter in the pan, sprinkle half the crumble on top, add the remaining batter gently over the crumb layer, and finish with the rest of the topping. Alternatively, spread all batter first and sprinkle crumble on top for easier assembly.

What are the best baking tips and pan options for cake mix coffee cake?

Bake in a greased 9″x13″ pan at 350F for 30 to 45 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick. For muffins, bake at 425F for 8 minutes, then lower to 350F for 15 minutes. Bundt pans or smaller pans work but may require adjusted baking times to ensure even cooking and moist texture.

Can I make coffee cake without a boxed cake mix, and how do I do it?

Yes, you can make a homemade mix with 1 ½ cups flour, 1 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon baking soda. This blend can substitute box mixes, allowing you to control ingredients while following the same basic recipe.

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Moist Yellow Coffee Cake with Sour Cream Made from Cake Mix


  • Author: Isabella Hayes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

☕ This moist yellow coffee cake uses sour cream to create a tender, flavorful texture that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert.
🍰 Layered with a cinnamon crumb topping inside and on top, this recipe offers a delicious homemade touch using simple cake mix ingredients.


Ingredients

Scale

1 package (about 15 oz) yellow cake mix (dry mix only)
1 large egg
1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (room temperature)
¼ cup (about 56 g) melted butter (cooled; vegan butter or coconut oil may be substituted)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional but recommended)

1 ¼ cups (150 g) all-purpose flour
⅔ cup (135 g) brown sugar
½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ cup (113 g) chilled unsalted butter, cut into cubes
Optional: 1 cup chopped nuts such as pecans for added texture


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Mix flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and cinnamon for crumb topping. Cut in chilled butter until coarse crumbs form, then mix in nuts if using.
3. In a large bowl, combine cake mix, egg, sour cream, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until combined with some lumps remaining.
4. Spread half the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
5. Sprinkle half the crumble topping over the batter layer.
6. Carefully spread remaining batter over the crumble layer.
7. Top with remaining crumble and press lightly so it adheres.
8. Bake 30-35 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
9. Let cake cool 10-15 minutes before slicing for neat pieces.

Notes

💡 Use cold butter in the topping for best crumb texture.
🌰 Add chopped nuts or diced fruit to the crumble topping for extra flavor and texture.
⏳ Bring eggs and sour cream to room temperature before mixing to ensure even batter consistency.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Sugar: 35 g
  • Sodium: 320 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: Yellow Coffee Cake,Coffee Cake with Sour Cream,Cinnamon Crumb Cake,Cake Mix Recipe

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