Cinnamon Coffee Cake With Cake Mix Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Oh, cinnamon coffee cake-there’s just something irresistibly cozy and nostalgic about it, isn’t there? Imagine waking up to the smell of a warm, buttery cake with swirls of cinnamon sugar melting into tender crumb layers. It’s the kind of treat that feels like a warm hug in food form, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or that mid-afternoon coffee break.

Now, I know some folks get intimidated by homemade baking, thinking it takes hours or fancy skills. But here’s the good news: this cinnamon coffee cake recipe uses a cake mix as its base, making the whole process a breeze without sacrificing flavor or texture. It’s the best of both worlds-simple enough for a weekday morning, yet decadent enough to impress guests.

Ready to roll up your sleeves and create a coffee cake that’s soft, moist, and bursting with cinnamon-sugar goodness? Let’s get started!

Cinnamon Coffee Cake With Cake Mix Recipe

This recipe is a delightful shortcut to classic cinnamon coffee cake. By using a boxed cake mix, you cut down on prep time, simplify ingredient gathering, and still achieve that tender crumb with a perfect cinnamon swirl and crumb topping that crunches just right. It’s ideal for:

• Busy mornings where time is short but cravings are big
• Beginner bakers who want an easy-to-follow, foolproof recipe
• Coffee lovers who want a sweet companion to their morning cup
• Anyone who loves that comforting cinnamon sugar combo without the fuss

The magic lies in how we build on the cake mix foundation by adding ingredients that enhance moisture and flavor, plus a cinnamon swirl and streusel topping that make every bite pure joy.

Ingredients Needed

Let’s break down what you’ll need, and don’t worry-it’s mostly pantry staples with a few fresh touches:

For The Cake Batter

• 1 box yellow or butter cake mix – The base for our tender cake. Yellow or butter adds richness; vanilla works too if you want a twist.
• 3 large eggs – Adds structure and richness.
• 1 cup sour cream – Keeps the cake moist and tender. This is a game-changer for texture!
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter – Adds fat for moistness and flavor. Butter gives a richer taste but oil keeps it lighter.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For that warm, inviting aroma and flavor boost.

For The Cinnamon Swirl And Streusel Topping

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – The star spice!
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed) – Adds a deep, caramel note to the topping.
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed – Creates that irresistible crumb topping texture.
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour – Helps bind the streusel crumbs together.

How To Make Cinnamon Coffee Cake With Cake Mix

Alright, here comes the fun part-let me walk you through this step-by-step, so it feels like you’re baking side-by-side with me:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Make the cinnamon swirl: In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.

3. Prepare The Streusel Topping

   • In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, and cold butter cubes.
   • Using a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.

4. Mix The Cake Batter

   • In a large bowl, whisk together the cake mix, eggs, sour cream, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. The batter will be thick and luscious.

5. Layer The Batter And Swirl

   • Pour half of the batter into your prepared pan and smooth it out evenly.
   • Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter.
   • Pour the remaining batter on top, spreading gently.
   • Sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar over the top, then lightly swirl it into the batter using a knife or skewer for that classic marbled effect.
6. Add the streusel topping: Evenly sprinkle the crumbly streusel over the top.
7. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool and serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature-delicious with coffee or tea!

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Let’s geek out a little on why this cake works so well:

• Cake mix: It’s already formulated with leavening agents (baking powder, soda), sugar, and flour balanced for a tender crumb-taking the guesswork out.
• Sour cream: The acid and fat in sour cream tenderize gluten strands, resulting in moist, soft cake. Plus, it reacts with baking soda if included in the mix, giving a slight lift.
• Butter vs. oil: Butter adds flavor and richness thanks to milk solids, while oil gives moistness because it remains liquid at room temp. This recipe balances both for taste and texture.
• Cinnamon and sugar swirl: The sugar melts during baking and combines with cinnamon’s aromatic oils, creating pockets of sweet, spicy caramelized bites.
• Streusel topping: The cold butter in the topping melts slowly, creating a crumbly, crunchy contrast to the soft cake beneath.

Expert Tips

Here are some insider nuggets to make your cinnamon coffee cake shine:

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and tender.
• Use cold butter for streusel: It’s essential for crumbly topping texture-warm butter makes it mushy.
• Swirl gently: Too vigorous swirling mixes the cinnamon sugar fully into the batter, losing those delightful pockets of cinnamon.
• Check doneness with a toothpick: Pull it out around 40 minutes to avoid overbaking and drying the cake.
• Make it the night before: This cake tastes even better the next day after flavors meld. Warm slices slightly before serving.
• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans in the streusel add crunch and a nutty flavor boost.

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun twists to keep this cake exciting:

• Apple cinnamon coffee cake: Add 1-2 cups diced apples to the batter for fruity moisture and extra sweetness.
• Pumpkin spice twist: Swap half the sour cream for canned pumpkin and add pumpkin pie spices (nutmeg, cloves, ginger).
• Cream cheese swirl: Drop spoonfuls of sweetened cream cheese in the batter for a rich surprise.
• Glaze it: Drizzle simple powdered sugar glaze (powdered sugar + milk + vanilla) on top after cooling for extra sweetness and shine.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and gluten-free flour for streusel to accommodate dietary needs.

Final Words

I hope you’re feeling excited to bake this cinnamon coffee cake! It’s a true winner because it’s easy, quick, and super satisfying. You get the home-baked feel without the hassle of making a cake completely from scratch. Plus, the cinnamon sugar swirl and crumbly topping bring that extra layer of texture and flavor that makes every bite unforgettable.

Whether you’re serving it at a weekend brunch, a casual coffee date, or just treating yourself, this cake fits the bill. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat, especially when you need a little comfort and sweetness in your life.

FAQs

What Type Of Cake Mix Should I Use For A Cinnamon Coffee Cake?

A yellow cake mix is most commonly used for cinnamon coffee cake recipes, as it provides a rich, buttery base that complements the cinnamon-sugar filling well. You can also use white or spice cake mix for a slightly different flavor profile.

Can I Add Sour Cream To The Cake Mix For A Moister Texture?

Yes, adding sour cream to the batter enhances the moisture and richness of the cake. Typically, 1 cup of sour cream is added to the cake mix along with the other ingredients for best results.

How Do I Make The Cinnamon Swirl Layer?

To make the cinnamon swirl layer, combine brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and optionally chopped nuts. After pouring half the cake batter into the pan, sprinkle this mixture evenly, then add the remaining batter on top and gently swirl with a knife.

What Pan Size Is Best For Baking Cinnamon Coffee Cake With Cake Mix?

A 9×13-inch baking dish is the most commonly used size, as it allows for even baking and is ideal for serving a crowd. You can also use a Bundt pan or two 9-inch round pans with adjusted baking times.

How Long Should I Bake The Coffee Cake, And At What Temperature?

Bake the cinnamon coffee cake at 350°F (175°C) for about 35 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary slightly based on the pan type and your oven.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead Of Time?

Yes, cinnamon coffee cake can be made a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature or refrigerate if keeping for longer than 24 hours. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven before serving for best taste.

What Toppings Go Well With Cinnamon Coffee Cake?

Popular toppings include a powdered sugar glaze, cream cheese frosting, or a simple streusel made with flour, butter, sugar, and cinnamon. These enhance the cake’s flavor and add a finishing touch.

Can I Add Fruit Like Apples Or Blueberries To This Cake Mix Recipe?

Yes, adding fruit such as chopped apples or fresh/frozen blueberries works well. Fold them into the batter or layer them with the cinnamon-sugar mixture for added flavor and texture.

Is It Necessary To Use Eggs And Oil With The Cake Mix?

Yes, eggs and oil are typically required when preparing the cake mix, as they provide structure and moisture. Follow the instructions on the box, but substitutions like melted butter or yogurt can also be used for different textures.

How Should I Store Leftovers, And How Long Will The Cake Stay Fresh?

Store leftover cinnamon coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.