Aunt Jemima Coffee Cake Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Oh, coffee cake – what a delightful companion to your morning brew or an afternoon pick-me-up! If you’ve ever been lucky enough to taste Aunt Jemima Coffee Cake, you know it’s a warm, buttery slice of nostalgia wrapped up in a sweet crumb topping and tender crumb. This cake has been a breakfast staple and a cozy dessert for decades, known for its comforting flavor and irresistible aroma.

What makes Aunt Jemima’s coffee cake so special? It’s that perfect balance of sweet and slightly tangy, with a crumbly streusel topping that practically melts in your mouth. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, recreating this classic recipe at home is a rewarding experience – and I’m here to guide you through every delicious step!

Aunt Jemima Coffee Cake Recipe

This recipe is a lovely blend of simplicity and tradition. It has a moist, tender crumb infused with just the right amount of cinnamon and sugar, topped with a buttery crumb topping that crunches ever so slightly. Imagine a slice served warm with a pat of melting butter or alongside your favorite cup of coffee or tea. Heavenly, right?

Here’s the recipe in a nutshell, but don’t worry, I’ll walk you through every ingredient and technique in detail next.

Ingredients Needed

To whip up this classic coffee cake, you’ll want to gather the following ingredients – nothing too fancy, just straightforward pantry staples that combine to create magic:

• Flour (All-purpose): The backbone of your cake’s structure.
• Sugar (granulated and brown sugar): For sweetness and moisture.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Your leavening agents, helping the cake rise and stay fluffy.
• Salt: To balance the flavors.
• Butter (unsalted, softened): For richness and that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Eggs: Provide structure and moisture.
• Sour cream or buttermilk: Adds tanginess and tender crumb.
• Vanilla extract: For aromatic warmth.
• Cinnamon: A signature spice in the crumb topping and batter.
• Nutmeg (optional): Adds a subtle warmth and depth.
• Brown sugar and flour for the crumb topping: Mixed with butter and cinnamon to form that irresistible streusel.

How To Make Aunt Jemima Coffee Cake

Alright, grab your apron and let’s get baking! Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

1. Prep your oven and pan: Preheat to about 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9-inch square pan for even baking and easy removal.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and a pinch of cinnamon (and nutmeg if you’re using it).
3. Cream the butter and sugar: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy – this step is crucial for that tender crumb!
4. Add eggs and vanilla: One at a time, incorporate eggs, then add vanilla extract. This builds structure and flavor.
5. Combine wet and dry: Alternately add the dry flour mixture and the sour cream (or buttermilk) to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined – don’t overmix, or the cake could become tough.
6. Make the crumb topping: In a separate bowl, stir together brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and softened butter until crumbly.
7. Assemble the cake: Pour half the batter into the pan, sprinkle half the crumb topping, then the rest of the batter, and finish with the remaining crumb topping.
8. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool and serve: Let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Let’s geek out for a moment on what each key ingredient is doing in this cake:

• Flour: Provides the structure by forming gluten when mixed with liquids. Too much mixing develops more gluten, which is why gentle folding is essential.
• Butter and Sugar (Creaming method): When creamed together, butter traps air creating tiny bubbles that expand in the oven, helping the cake rise and become light.
• Baking powder and soda: Both release carbon dioxide when reacting with moisture and heat. Baking soda reacts with the acidic sour cream/buttermilk, while baking powder reacts on its own, giving a double lift.
• Sour cream or Buttermilk: Adds moisture and acidity, which tenderizes the gluten, resulting in a softer crumb, plus it reacts with baking soda for leavening.
• Eggs: Proteins in eggs provide structure, emulsify fat and water for a uniform batter, and add moisture.
• Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices add aroma and complexity to the flavor profile, turning simple sweetness into a cozy, warm experience.

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip the sour cream: It’s a game-changer for moistness and flavor.
• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temp for proper mixing and texture.
• Watch your bake time: Oven temps vary! Start checking at 35 minutes to avoid dryness.
• Use a glass or light-colored pan: Dark pans absorb more heat and can cause over-browning.
• Let the cake rest: Cooling slightly before cutting helps the crumb set and prevents crumbling.

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous or catering to specific tastes? Here are some fun twists on the classic:

• Add nuts: Walnuts or pecans in the crumb topping for crunch.
• Fruit infusion: Toss in fresh blueberries or chopped apples in the batter.
• Glaze finish: Drizzle a simple vanilla or cream cheese glaze on top after baking.
• Spice it up: Increase cinnamon or add cardamom for a more aromatic twist.
• Gluten-free: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend, adjusting moisture as needed.
• Vegan: Use plant-based butter, flax eggs, and dairy-free yogurt instead of sour cream.

Final Words

Baking Aunt Jemima Coffee Cake is more than just following a recipe – it’s about capturing a moment, a taste of history, and the warmth of homemade goodness. Whether you’re serving it up for family, friends, or simply indulging yourself, this coffee cake offers comfort in every bite. The buttery crumb topping, the tender cake, the hints of cinnamon – it’s a recipe that invites you to slow down, savor, and enjoy.

FAQs

What Is Aunt Jemima Coffee Cake?

Aunt Jemima Coffee Cake is a popular dessert made with Aunt Jemima pancake mix, which provides a light and fluffy texture. The cake is often topped with a cinnamon-sugar streusel and baked until golden brown. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack with coffee.

Can I Use Any Pancake Mix For This Recipe?

While Aunt Jemima pancake mix is specifically mentioned in the recipe, you can substitute it with any other brand of pancake mix. However, the flavor and texture might slightly differ depending on the brand you choose.

How Do I Make The Cinnamon Streusel Topping For The Cake?

To make the cinnamon streusel topping, mix together brown sugar, ground cinnamon, flour, and butter. The mixture should be crumbly. This topping is then sprinkled over the batter before baking, giving the cake a sweet and spiced crunch.

Can I Make Aunt Jemima Coffee Cake Without Eggs?

Yes, you can make the coffee cake without eggs. You can substitute the eggs with applesauce, mashed bananas, or a store-bought egg replacement. The cake will still turn out moist and flavorful.

Is Aunt Jemima Coffee Cake Easy To Make?

Yes, the recipe is quite simple. Using pancake mix eliminates the need for separate flour, baking powder, and other ingredients, which simplifies the process. Most of the time is spent waiting for the cake to bake.

How Long Do I Bake Aunt Jemima Coffee Cake?

Typically, Aunt Jemima coffee cake takes around 35 to 40 minutes to bake at 350°F (175°C). However, baking times may vary depending on your oven, so it’s best to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.

Can I Add Fruits Like Berries Or Apples To The Recipe?

Yes, adding fruits like fresh berries or apples can enhance the flavor of the coffee cake. Just be sure to fold them gently into the batter to avoid making it too soggy. Berries can also be used as a topping after baking.

What Can I Serve With Aunt Jemima Coffee Cake?

Aunt Jemima coffee cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or milk. It’s also great when served with fresh fruit or yogurt, making it a perfect breakfast or brunch item.

Can I Make Aunt Jemima Coffee Cake Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make the coffee cake a day ahead. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, just let it thaw at room temperature or warm it in the oven for a few minutes.

How Do I Store Leftover Aunt Jemima Coffee Cake?

Store leftover Aunt Jemima coffee cake in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. It will last for about 2-3 days at room temperature, or you can refrigerate it for up to a week. If you’d like to keep it longer, freezing is a good option.