Betty Crocker Coffee Cake Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Oh, coffee cake – that cozy, sweet companion to your morning cup of joe or afternoon tea! If you’re anything like me, there’s just something magical about that soft, buttery crumb mingling with a crunchy cinnamon streusel topping. And when it comes to coffee cakes, few names ring as classic and trustworthy as Betty Crocker.

Betty Crocker’s Coffee Cake recipe has been a staple in kitchens for decades. It’s like the warm hug of the baking world: familiar, reliable, and utterly delicious. Whether you’re a novice baker looking to impress or a seasoned pro craving a nostalgic treat, this recipe hits the sweet spot every time.

Today, I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know about making this iconic coffee cake-from the ingredients that make it sing, to the science behind them, to expert tips that will elevate your baking game. Plus, I’ll share some fun recipe twists to keep things exciting!

Ready to bake a cake that’s bursting with flavor, texture, and love? Let’s get started!

Betty Crocker Coffee Cake Recipe

This recipe is a beautiful balance of tender cake, rich cinnamon, buttery streusel, and a little something special that makes you want to keep slicing another piece. The classic Betty Crocker coffee cake is perfect for:

• Breakfast gatherings
• Weekend brunches
• Potlucks or holiday treats
• Anytime you just need a comforting sweet bite!

It’s simple, straightforward, and endlessly satisfying – making it a perfect canvas for creativity or just the perfect base for a timeless treat.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s your shopping list for this coffee cake delight. Each ingredient plays a specific role, contributing to the overall magic of the cake:

• All-purpose flour (2 ½ cups): The backbone of your cake, providing structure and the perfect crumb.
• Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cake and helps with browning.
• Baking powder (2 ½ tsp): The leavening agent that makes your cake rise light and fluffy.
• Salt (½ tsp): Enhances flavors and balances sweetness.
• Butter (½ cup or 1 stick, softened): Adds richness, moisture, and that tender crumb.
• Milk (1 cup): Moistens the batter and helps create a soft texture.
• Egg (1 large): Binds the ingredients together and adds structure.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Brings a warm, sweet aroma and depth of flavor.

For the streusel topping, you’ll need:

• Brown sugar (½ cup): Adds a rich, caramel sweetness.
• All-purpose flour (⅓ cup): To give the streusel some body and crunch.
• Ground cinnamon (1 ½ tsp): That signature coffee cake spice.
• Butter (3 tbsp, softened): Binds the topping and adds buttery crunch.

How To Make Betty Crocker Coffee Cake

Now, let’s get down to business and break down the steps in a super clear, approachable way:

1. Preheat And Prep

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease or spray a 9×13-inch baking pan. This size is perfect for a big, shareable coffee cake.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening and sweetness.

3. Add Wet Ingredients

   • Cut in the softened butter using a pastry cutter or two forks until the mixture looks crumbly.
   • In a separate bowl, combine the milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
   • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing or the cake might get tough.

4. Make The Streusel Topping

   • In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
   • Cut in the softened butter until the mixture clumps up into a crumbly, buttery topping.

5. Assemble

   • Pour half the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
   • Sprinkle half the streusel over the batter.
   • Add the remaining batter on top, then finish with the remaining streusel.

6. Bake

   • Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
   • Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Okay, this is where things get fascinating! Why these ingredients? How do they work their magic?

• Flour: Contains gluten proteins that develop when mixed with wet ingredients. Gluten gives structure but too much can make the cake tough, so mixing gently is key.
• Baking powder: This is your chemical leavener, releasing carbon dioxide bubbles during baking that make the cake rise light and airy.
• Butter: Fat coats the flour proteins, limiting gluten formation for tenderness, and adds flavor and moisture.
• Sugar: Not just sweetness! Sugar helps retain moisture and encourages browning through caramelization and the Maillard reaction.
• Milk: Adds liquid to hydrate flour and dissolve sugar, plus proteins that help with structure and tenderness.
• Egg: Acts as a binder and adds richness from fats and proteins.
• Cinnamon: Provides that warm, spicy aroma and flavor that defines coffee cake.

Understanding how these ingredients interact helps you troubleshoot or customize your bake perfectly!

Expert Tips

If you want to take your Betty Crocker coffee cake from great to legendary, here are some pro tips:

• Butter temperature: Use softened butter for the streusel and cake. Too cold and it won’t mix well; too melted and you lose texture.
• Don’t overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a dense cake.
• Layer carefully: Spread batter and streusel gently to keep the layers distinct for that signature texture contrast.
• Check doneness: Start checking your cake at 35 minutes. Every oven varies, so a toothpick test is your best friend.
• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans in the streusel add crunch and extra flavor.
• Use real vanilla: Pure vanilla extract makes a noticeable difference in flavor complexity.
• Cool before slicing: Gives the cake time to set up, making it easier to cut neat slices.

Recipe Variations

Now, let’s shake things up a bit! Coffee cake is wonderfully versatile, so here are some delicious twists:

• Fruit-filled: Add a layer of fresh or frozen berries or diced apples between the batter layers for a fruity surprise.
• Glaze topping: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze (powdered sugar + milk + vanilla) over the cooled cake for extra sweetness.
• Chocolate swirl: Mix in mini chocolate chips or swirl melted chocolate into the batter.
• Spice mix: Add nutmeg, cloves, or cardamom to the streusel for a warming spice boost.
• Cream cheese layer: Spread softened cream cheese mixed with a bit of sugar between the batter layers for a rich, tangy filling.

Final Words

There’s something truly heartwarming about making and sharing a homemade coffee cake – the smell alone is enough to brighten your whole day. Betty Crocker’s coffee cake recipe is timeless because it’s approachable and reliable, yet endlessly adaptable to your tastes.

Whether you stick to the classic or go wild with mix-ins, the real joy is in the process: the mixing, the smells, the anticipation, and of course, that first glorious bite. So grab your mixing bowl, fire up your oven, and get ready to create a batch of comfort and joy that everyone will love.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For The Betty Crocker Coffee Cake Recipe?

To make the Betty Crocker Coffee Cake, you’ll need basic ingredients such as flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, eggs, milk, butter, and vanilla extract. For the streusel topping, you’ll need cinnamon, brown sugar, and additional butter.

How Long Does It Take To Prepare And Bake The Betty Crocker Coffee Cake?

The total time required for making the Betty Crocker Coffee Cake is about 1 hour. This includes approximately 15-20 minutes of preparation time and 35-40 minutes of baking time.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Flour In The Betty Crocker Coffee Cake Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends. However, this may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the cake.

Is It Possible To Make The Betty Crocker Coffee Cake In Advance?

Yes, you can make the cake ahead of time. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months.

What Type Of Pan Is Best For Baking Betty Crocker Coffee Cake?

A 9-inch round or square cake pan works best for baking Betty Crocker Coffee Cake. You can also use a 9×13-inch baking dish if you prefer a thinner cake.

How Do I Know When The Betty Crocker Coffee Cake Is Done Baking?

To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, the cake is done. The top should also be golden brown.

Can I Add Nuts Or Fruits To The Betty Crocker Coffee Cake Recipe?

Yes, you can add chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or fruits (such as berries or apples) to the cake batter or streusel topping for added flavor and texture.

Can I Use A Different Topping For The Betty Crocker Coffee Cake?

While the traditional streusel topping is commonly used, you can experiment with different toppings like a glaze, powdered sugar, or even whipped cream if you prefer a less sweet, lighter finish.

Is The Betty Crocker Coffee Cake Recipe Suitable For Vegetarians?

Yes, the Betty Crocker Coffee Cake recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat or animal-derived products other than eggs and dairy. You can modify it for vegans by substituting non-dairy alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter.

Can I Make The Betty Crocker Coffee Cake Recipe Without Eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with egg replacers like applesauce, mashed bananas, or commercial egg substitutes. Keep in mind that this might alter the texture slightly.