Coffee Cake 50 People Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Ah, coffee cake. The mere mention of it brings to mind that sweet, crumbly topping, warm cinnamon swirls, and the unmistakable aroma that fills the kitchen and practically wraps around you like a soft blanket. But here’s the twist: despite the name, it doesn’t actually contain coffee (although it pairs perfectly with a mug of it).

So why make a coffee cake for 50 people?

• Because it’s easy to scale up.
• Because it’s universally adored.
• Because nothing says ’I baked this with love’ quite like slicing into a golden brown, buttery cake that’s big enough to feed a crowd.

Let’s go all in and break down exactly how to make a large-batch coffee cake that’s tender, flavorful, and gets devoured to the very last crumb.

Coffee Cake Recipe For 50 People

Serving Size Assumption: Each person gets a standard slice, about 3×3 inches. So we’re aiming for a cake or cakes that yield around 50 generous pieces.

This will fill approximately two full-size sheet pans (18×26 inches), or four 9×13-inch pans if you don’t have commercial-sized baking gear.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s the bulk breakdown of ingredients for a crowd-sized coffee cake. (Don’t worry-we’ll talk substitutions and pro tips later!)

For The Cake Batter

• 10 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled for accuracy)
• 8 cups granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp baking powder
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 2 tsp salt
• 4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 8 large eggs
• 4 cups whole milk (room temperature)
• 4 cups sour cream (for that rich tangy moisture)
• 2 tbsp vanilla extract
• 4 cups (2 lbs) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly

For The Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl

• 3 cups brown sugar, packed
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 5 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp nutmeg (optional for extra warmth)

For The Crumb Topping (Streusel)

• 5 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 cups brown sugar
• 2 cups cold butter, cubed
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Optional Glaze (for Drizzling!)

• 4 cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup milk or heavy cream
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

How To Make Coffee Cake For 50 People

Set aside a relaxed morning or afternoon, throw on your favorite playlist or podcast, and get baking!

Prep Your Pans

• Grease your pans (2 sheet pans or 4 9×13 pans) with butter or nonstick spray.
• Optionally line with parchment for easier serving and cleanup.

Make The Streusel Topping

• Combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl.
• Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until you get large, crumbly clumps.
• Chill the streusel in the fridge while you prepare the batter. Cold crumbs = better topping.

Mix The Cinnamon Swirl

• Stir together brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
• Set aside – you’ll layer this into the batter.

Make The Cake Batter

• In a huge mixing bowl (or stand mixer if you’re blessed with a commercial-sized one), whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
• In another bowl, beat the eggs, milk, sour cream, vanilla, and melted butter until fully combined.
• Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry and mix until smooth – don’t overmix!

Layer The Batter And Swirl

• Pour half the batter into the prepared pans and spread evenly.
• Sprinkle half the cinnamon swirl over the batter.
• Pour the rest of the batter on top, then finish with the remaining cinnamon swirl.
• Take a butter knife and gently swirl the layers by dragging it in figure-8 motions.

Add The Streusel

• Sprinkle that glorious crumb topping evenly over the top.

Bake

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Bake:

  • Sheet pans: ~40-45 minutes
  • 9×13 pans: ~45-50 minutes
• Check doneness with a toothpick – it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Optional Glaze

• Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.
• Drizzle over cooled cake for that bakery-finish touch.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Let’s geek out for a second – because understanding why each ingredient works makes you a better baker!

• Sour Cream: Moisture plus acidity! It reacts with baking soda to help the cake rise and stay tender.
• Brown Sugar in Streusel & Swirl: Adds a rich, caramel-molasses depth that white sugar alone can’t deliver.
• Butter: Melted butter in the batter = dense, buttery crumb. Cold butter in the streusel = crispy topping.
• Cinnamon: Not just for flavor – it enhances sweetness and brings warmth. Fresh cinnamon makes a big difference!

Expert Tips

Want your coffee cake to stand out as the best at the bake sale or brunch table? Read on.

• Don’t skimp on the swirl: That cinnamon sugar layer is the soul of this cake. Be generous.
• Let it cool before slicing: Hard, I know. But cutting too early can smush the texture.
• Freeze for later: These cakes freeze beautifully. Wrap slices or full pans tightly in plastic and foil.
• Room temperature ingredients: Especially the eggs and sour cream – they mix better and lead to even baking.

Recipe Variations

Feeling creative? Here are some fun tweaks to customize your coffee cake for different crowds or flavors.

• Blueberry Coffee Cake: Fold 3-4 cups of fresh or frozen blueberries into the batter.
• Maple-Walnut Twist: Swap vanilla in the glaze for maple extract, and add chopped walnuts to the streusel.
• Apple Cinnamon: Dice 4 cups of apples and layer them with the cinnamon sugar.
• Chocolate Chip Surprise: Add 2 cups of mini chocolate chips to the batter or swirl layer.

And for a holiday twist? Sprinkle in a little ginger and cloves to the cinnamon swirl for a cozy gingerbread vibe.

Final Words

Here’s the truth: baking for a crowd can feel intimidating. But when you see the smiles, hear the compliments, and maybe even witness someone sneaking a second slice – it’s worth every bowl you washed and every crumb you swept.

This coffee cake isn’t just about flour and sugar. It’s about creating a warm, shared experience. It’s breakfast nostalgia baked into every layer.

Whether you’re baking for 50 people once a year or every month (you legend), this recipe has your back.

FAQs

How Much Coffee Cake Batter Do I Need To Serve 50 People?

To serve 50 people, you typically need about 12 to 15 cups of batter, depending on the size of each serving. This usually translates to doubling or tripling a standard coffee cake recipe that serves 8 to 12 people.

What Size Baking Pan Is Suitable For A Coffee Cake That Serves 50 People?

For 50 servings, a large commercial-size sheet pan (approximately 18×26 inches) or multiple standard 9×13 inch pans will be ideal. Using multiple pans ensures even baking and easier portioning.

Can I Prepare The Coffee Cake Batter The Night Before For 50 People?

Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate it overnight. However, some recipes may require you to mix the dry and wet ingredients separately and combine them just before baking to maintain freshness and texture.

How Long Should I Bake A Coffee Cake For 50 People?

Baking time varies depending on pan size and batter thickness. For large sheet pans, expect 30-45 minutes at 350°F (175°C). It’s important to check for doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center-it should come out clean.

What Ingredients Are Needed To Scale A Coffee Cake Recipe For 50 People?

You will need to multiply the quantities of basic ingredients such as flour, sugar, eggs, butter, baking powder, and milk. Additionally, increase any cinnamon, nuts, or streusel toppings proportionally to maintain flavor balance.

How Can I Ensure The Coffee Cake Remains Moist When Baking For A Large Group?

Use ingredients like sour cream, yogurt, or buttermilk in the batter, and avoid overbaking. Also, cover the cake loosely with foil if it browns too quickly to retain moisture.

Can I Freeze Coffee Cake For A Large Group After Baking?

Yes, coffee cake freezes well. After cooling completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

What Is The Best Way To Portion Coffee Cake For 50 People?

Cut the coffee cake into uniform squares or rectangles, approximately 2×2 inches or slightly larger, depending on appetite. Using a ruler or knife guide can help achieve consistent portions.

Are There Any Recommended Variations Or Flavor Additions For A Coffee Cake Recipe Serving 50?

Popular variations include adding fruit such as blueberries or apples, incorporating nuts like pecans or walnuts, or using different spices like nutmeg or cardamom. You can also add a cream cheese glaze or drizzle for extra flavor.

How Should I Store Leftover Coffee Cake After Serving 50 People?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze as described earlier. Always cover to prevent drying out.