Cinnamon Coffee Cake Starbucks Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Oh my goodness, if you’ve ever stepped into a Starbucks and caught a whiff of that warm, inviting cinnamon aroma, you know exactly what I’m talking about. The Cinnamon Coffee Cake from Starbucks is basically a little slice of heaven – a perfect balance of tender cake, crunchy cinnamon streusel, and that cozy, sweet spice that makes you want to curl up with a good book or catch up with friends over coffee.

Today, I’m going to walk you through recreating this delightful treat right in your own kitchen. Trust me, once you nail this recipe, you’ll never want to buy it pre-made again! It’s comforting, slightly crumbly, and bursting with cinnamon flavor, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime snack attacks.

Ready to become your own barista-baker? Let’s get going!

Cinnamon Coffee Cake Starbucks Recipe

This recipe isn’t just about throwing ingredients together – it’s about creating layers of flavor and texture that come together to mimic that perfect coffee shop experience. We’re talking:

• A moist, buttery cake base that’s light but satisfying
• A generous swirl of cinnamon-sugar goodness throughout
• That irresistible, crumbly cinnamon streusel topping for crunch and sweetness

What makes it extra special? The harmonious balance of spices and textures, the way the cake melts in your mouth but still has a little bite, and of course, the way the cinnamon wakes up your senses.

Ingredients Needed

Before you jump into baking, let’s make sure you’ve got everything you need. Precision is key here – the right ingredients at the right ratios bring the magic to life.

For The Cake

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – the backbone for structure
• 1 cup granulated sugar – sweetness without overpowering
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – for that gentle lift
• ½ teaspoon baking soda – helps balance the acidity and rise
• ½ teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened) – adds richness and moisture
• 2 large eggs – bind everything together and provide tenderness
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – for warmth and depth
• 1 cup sour cream – keeps the cake moist and tender with a slight tang

For The Cinnamon Swirl

• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar – deep molasses flavor
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – the star of the show

For The Streusel Topping

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (cold, cubed) – for that crumbly texture

How To Make Cinnamon Coffee Cake Starbucks

Alright, here’s where the magic unfolds! Follow along carefully – you’re about to create some serious bakery-worthy goodness.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the cinnamon swirl: Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl; set aside.
3. Make the streusel topping: Combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Chill in the fridge if needed.
4. Whisk dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Cream butter and sugar: In a separate bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy – about 3-5 minutes. This aerates the batter for a tender crumb.
6. Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
7. Combine sour cream and dry ingredients: Alternately add the flour mixture and sour cream to the butter mixture, starting and ending with flour. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
8. Assemble the cake: Spread half the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Sprinkle half the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter. Repeat with the remaining batter and top with the remaining cinnamon swirl.
9. Add streusel: Sprinkle the streusel topping generously over the entire cake.
10. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
11. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack before slicing.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Now, let’s nerd out a little because understanding the why behind ingredients makes baking so much more fun and effective!

• Flour: The protein in flour (gluten) forms a network that traps gases, allowing the cake to rise and maintain structure. Using all-purpose flour strikes a balance – too much protein (like bread flour) makes it tough, too little (cake flour) can be overly delicate.
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These are your leavening agents. Baking powder reacts with moisture and heat, while baking soda reacts with acidic components (like sour cream). Together, they ensure the cake rises perfectly with a tender crumb.
• Sour Cream: It’s the secret moisture-locker! Its acidity tenderizes gluten and interacts with baking soda to give the cake a light lift and a slight tang that balances sweetness.
• Butter: Adds fat, which enriches flavor and tenderness, and when creamed with sugar, it traps air, creating lightness.
• Cinnamon and Brown Sugar: Brown sugar contains molasses, which adds moisture and a deeper, richer flavor, while cinnamon gives the cake that signature warm, spicy aroma.

Expert Tips

Alright, here’s where I drop some pro advice so your cake turns out PERFECT every time:

• Don’t overmix: Once you add the flour, mix just until everything comes together. Overmixing develops gluten and leads to a dense cake.
• Room temperature ingredients: Butter, eggs, and sour cream should be room temp to blend smoothly and trap air better.
• Chill the streusel: Cold butter in the topping is key for that signature crumbly texture.
• Use fresh cinnamon: It makes a HUGE flavor difference. If yours is old and stale, consider buying fresh.
• Pan prep: Lining your pan with parchment makes cleanup easier and helps keep your cake intact.
• Test doneness: Toothpick or cake tester in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are some delicious twists you can try:

• Add nuts: Walnuts or pecans in the streusel or batter add crunch and earthiness.
• Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt: Keeps the moisture and tang but adds a protein boost.
• Maple Cinnamon: Swap brown sugar for maple sugar or add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the batter for an autumn twist.
• Glaze it up: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze with a splash of vanilla or coffee over the cooled cake.
• Fruit Boost: Toss in some diced apples or blueberries into the batter for fruity bursts.

Final Words

Making Starbucks’ Cinnamon Coffee Cake at home isn’t just a fun baking project – it’s a way to bring a little warmth and sweetness into your daily routine. It’s perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself with a cup of coffee on a slow morning. And guess what? The smell alone will fill your home with cozy vibes.

So grab your whisk, crank up your oven, and get ready for some seriously delicious cinnamon bliss. This recipe is easy enough for everyday baking but impressive enough for special occasions!

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients In The Starbucks Cinnamon Coffee Cake Recipe?

The main ingredients in Starbucks’ cinnamon coffee cake recipe include all-purpose flour, sugar, butter, eggs, sour cream, cinnamon, brown sugar, baking powder, and vanilla extract.

Can I Substitute Sour Cream In The Starbucks Cinnamon Coffee Cake Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt or buttermilk for a similar texture and tanginess in the cake.

What Is The Best Way To Store Leftover Starbucks Cinnamon Coffee Cake?

To store leftover cinnamon coffee cake, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I Make The Starbucks Cinnamon Coffee Cake Gluten-free?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by replacing all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check the recipe for other ingredients that may contain gluten, like baking powder.

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

To make the streusel topping, mix together flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter. Use a fork or pastry cutter to blend the mixture until it forms small crumbs.

How Long Does It Take To Bake The Starbucks Cinnamon Coffee Cake?

The Starbucks cinnamon coffee cake typically bakes for about 35-40 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

What Makes The Starbucks Cinnamon Coffee Cake So Moist?

The addition of sour cream or buttermilk in the recipe contributes to the moist texture of the cinnamon coffee cake. These ingredients help retain moisture while baking.

Can I Add Nuts To The Starbucks Cinnamon Coffee Cake Recipe?

Yes, you can add chopped walnuts or pecans to the streusel topping or mix them directly into the batter for extra texture and flavor.

Is There A Vegan Version Of The Starbucks Cinnamon Coffee Cake Recipe?

To make a vegan version of the cinnamon coffee cake, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer and use a plant-based yogurt or milk substitute. You will also need to replace the butter with a vegan alternative.

Can I Double The Starbucks Cinnamon Coffee Cake Recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger batch. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as a larger cake may require additional time in the oven.