Coffee Cake With Cake Mix And Pudding Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Oh, coffee cake – just the very name conjures up cozy images of lazy weekend mornings, the aroma of fresh brew wafting through the air, and that irresistible, tender crumb that crumbles perfectly with every bite. Now, imagine you could whip up this dreamy, moist, and slightly sweet coffee cake without starting from scratch, thanks to the magic of cake mix and pudding. Sounds like a kitchen hack that’s as clever as it is delicious, right?

This recipe is a total game-changer. It leverages the convenience of a boxed cake mix and the moisture-locking magic of instant pudding to deliver a cake that’s incredibly tender, packed with flavor, and with a crumb so buttery and soft you’ll be sneaking bites before it even cools. If you’re someone who loves baking but hates complicated processes, or if you just want a reliable, crowd-pleasing coffee cake that’s quick and delicious, this is the one to bookmark.

Ready to get that oven preheated and your taste buds excited? Let’s dive in!

Coffee Cake With Cake Mix And Pudding Recipe

This recipe takes the humble coffee cake to a new level with a moistness and texture that only pudding can provide. Plus, using a cake mix means no complicated measuring of flour, baking powder, or worrying about how to balance flavors – it’s all there, just waiting for your personal twist.

Here’s What Makes It Special

• The instant pudding mix isn’t just for dessert puddings – when combined with cake mix, it acts as a moisture magnet, keeping the crumb soft for days.
• Using cake mix speeds things up tremendously – just mix and bake.
• The cinnamon-sugar streusel topping adds a crunchy, buttery contrast to the soft cake beneath.
• Optional nuts or fruits can be added for texture and flavor complexity.

This is comfort food elevated – perfect with your morning coffee, afternoon tea, or even as a sweet snack anytime you need a little pick-me-up.

Ingredients Needed

Alright, let’s get down to what you need to raid your pantry or grocery list for:

Cake Mix Base

• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix – this is your foundation. Yellow cake gives a buttery, slightly sweet canvas perfect for coffee cake.
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix – the secret ingredient for moistness and softness.
• 3 large eggs – for structure and richness.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil – adds fat for tenderness.
• 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt – optional but highly recommended for added moisture and tang.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – because vanilla makes everything better.

Streusel Topping

• 3/4 cup brown sugar – brings caramel notes.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – the base for your crumbly topping.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – the classic coffee cake spice.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – balances sweetness.
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed – for that rich, melt-in-your-mouth topping.
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional) – pecans or walnuts add crunch and flavor.

How To Make Coffee Cake With Cake Mix And Pudding

Let’s break down the process into easy steps. Don’t worry, it’s straightforward but feels like a special project – the kind of baking that fills your kitchen with the most wonderful smells and anticipation.

Step 1: Prepare The Batter

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cake mix and instant pudding mix until fully combined.
• Add the eggs, vegetable oil, sour cream (or yogurt), and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed until everything is smooth and creamy – about 2 minutes.
• Your batter will be thicker than usual cake batter because of the pudding and sour cream – this is perfect for a moist coffee cake.

Step 2: Make The Streusel Topping

• In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt.
• Add the cold butter cubes. Using a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingers, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Stir in the nuts if you’re using them.

Step 3: Assemble And Bake

• Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
• Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter. Don’t be shy – layer it on for maximum crunch and sweetness.
• Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
• Cool the coffee cake in the pan for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Here’s where the recipe gets a little science-y – but in a good, cool way! Understanding the roles ingredients play can really elevate your baking game.

• Instant pudding mix: It contains starch and gelatin, which absorb and retain moisture during baking, preventing the cake from drying out. This is why cakes made with pudding stay tender and moist longer than usual.
• Sour cream (or Greek yogurt): Adds fat and acidity. The fat makes the crumb rich, while the acidity tenderizes gluten formation, resulting in a softer texture.
• Vegetable oil vs. butter in batter: Oil remains liquid at room temperature, which helps keep the cake moist longer. Butter adds flavor but can lead to a firmer crumb if used excessively.
• Cold butter in streusel: When cold butter melts slowly during baking, it creates tiny pockets of steam that contribute to a flaky, crumbly topping.

This combination of ingredients is a finely balanced chemistry act, blending texture, moisture, and flavor.

Expert Tips

Because I want you to be a coffee cake rockstar, here are some insider secrets to nail this recipe every time:

• Don’t overmix the batter: Once the wet and dry ingredients are combined, mix just until smooth to avoid a dense cake.
• Use cold butter for the topping: This is key for that perfect crumbly texture.
• Room temperature eggs: They incorporate better into the batter, ensuring a smooth, homogenous mix.
• Check doneness early: Ovens vary. Start testing with a toothpick at 35 minutes to avoid overbaking.
• Make it the day before: Coffee cake actually tastes better the next day once the flavors meld and the pudding’s moisture fully settles in.
• Warm slices slightly before serving: It revives that fresh-baked softness and makes it melt-in-your-mouth divine.

Recipe Variations

Ready to get creative? This recipe is a fabulous base for all kinds of delicious tweaks!

• Chocolate lovers’ twist: Use chocolate instant pudding and add mini chocolate chips to the batter.
• Fruit infusion: Fold in 1 cup fresh or frozen berries (blueberries or raspberries) for a fruity burst.
• Pumpkin spice: Swap vanilla pudding for spice pudding, add 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, and swirl in 1/2 cup canned pumpkin.
• Maple pecan topping: Replace brown sugar with maple sugar or add a splash of maple syrup to the streusel, and top with toasted pecans.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and cornstarch-based pudding mix for a safe option.
• Vegan: Use flax eggs, vegan pudding mix, vegetable oil, and dairy-free yogurt.

The possibilities are endless!

Final Words

So, what do we have here? A simple, speedy, and utterly satisfying coffee cake that’s as moist as it is flavorful, made effortlessly with cake mix and pudding. The buttery streusel topping adds the perfect crunch, and every bite is like a warm hug with a cup of coffee.

You’ve got all the tips and variations to personalize it just how you like – whether you keep it classic or jazz it up with fruits, spices, or chocolate. This recipe is your new go-to for gatherings, gifts, or treating yourself on a quiet afternoon.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For A Coffee Cake Using Cake Mix And Pudding?

Typical ingredients include a box of yellow or white cake mix, a box of instant vanilla or butterscotch pudding mix, eggs, sour cream or Greek yogurt, oil or melted butter, cinnamon, sugar, and sometimes chopped nuts or a streusel topping.

Why Add Pudding Mix To The Cake Mix For Coffee Cake?

Adding instant pudding mix enhances the texture and flavor of the cake. It results in a moister, denser crumb and adds richness, especially when using complementary pudding flavors like vanilla or butterscotch.

Can I Use Sugar-free Pudding In A Coffee Cake Recipe?

Yes, sugar-free pudding can be used as a substitute, though it may slightly alter the sweetness and texture. Make sure to use the same quantity and adjust other sweeteners if needed.

What Kind Of Cake Mix Works Best For A Coffee Cake With Pudding?

Yellow cake mix is most commonly used due to its buttery flavor and dense texture. However, white or spice cake mixes also work well, depending on the desired taste profile.

Do I Need To Prepare The Pudding Before Mixing It Into The Cake Batter?

No, the pudding mix should be added directly to the dry cake mix. Do not prepare the pudding with milk beforehand, as this can alter the consistency of the batter.

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

A simple streusel can be made by combining brown sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and softened butter. Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can be added for extra texture and flavor.

Can This Coffee Cake Be Made Ahead Of Time?

Yes, this coffee cake can be baked a day in advance. Once cooled, cover tightly and store at room temperature or refrigerate. It also freezes well for up to 3 months when wrapped properly.

What Size Pan Should I Use For Baking This Coffee Cake?

A 9×13-inch baking dish is standard for most coffee cake recipes. However, you can also use a bundt pan or two 8-inch square pans, adjusting the baking time accordingly.

How Long Should I Bake A Coffee Cake With Cake Mix And Pudding?

Typically, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary depending on the oven and pan used.

Can I Add Fruits Or Nuts To The Batter?

Yes, chopped apples, blueberries, or nuts like walnuts or pecans can be folded into the batter for added flavor and texture. Ensure that fruit is patted dry to avoid excess moisture.