Coffee cake. Just the name evokes images of cozy mornings, warm kitchens, and the comforting aroma of sweet spices and buttery crumbles. But who has time for elaborate baking projects? This recipe uses a yellow cake mix as a shortcut, delivering all the deliciousness of a classic coffee cake with minimal effort. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unbelievably easy and tasty treat!
Why Use a Cake Mix?
Using a yellow cake mix as a base for your coffee cake isn't cheating; it's smart! It provides a consistent, reliable foundation, saving you time and effort on measuring and mixing dry ingredients. You'll still have the opportunity to add your personal touch with the delicious streusel topping and a few simple additions. This method allows you to focus on creating the perfect texture and flavor profile without getting bogged down in complex baking techniques.
What You'll Need:
For the Cake:
- One box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- Ingredients listed on the cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Crumble Topping:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
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Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, prepare the yellow cake batter according to the package directions, adding the vanilla extract.
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Make the Crumble Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to crumble the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
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Assemble the Coffee Cake: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle half of the crumble topping over the batter. Pour the remaining cake batter over the topping and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining crumble topping over the top.
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Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool: Let the coffee cake cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar (optional) for an extra touch of elegance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
While yellow cake mix is recommended for its classic flavor profile, you can experiment with other cake mixes like spice or white cake. However, the flavor of the finished coffee cake will be affected. Spice cake would create a more intensely spiced coffee cake.
Can I add nuts to the crumble topping?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even macadamia nuts would be delicious additions to the crumble topping.
How can I make this coffee cake even more moist?
Adding a tablespoon or two of sour cream or applesauce to the cake batter can add extra moisture. You could also add a layer of fruit (like blueberries or peaches) between the cake layers.
Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?
Yes! This coffee cake can be made a day or two ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It will even taste better the next day!
What kind of frosting can I use on this coffee cake?
A simple cream cheese frosting or a light glaze would complement the coffee cake beautifully. However, the crumble topping is quite satisfying on its own and doesn't necessarily require frosting.
This easy coffee cake recipe using yellow cake mix is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!
