Hostess Coffee Cake Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

You know that feeling when you open a crinkly little Hostess wrapper and find that golden, crumbly, soft cake waiting inside? Yeah, me too. It’s nostalgic, it’s comforting, it’s sugary-but let’s be honest: nothing beats a homemade version.

The Hostess Coffee Cake is an American classic-moist, cinnamon-swirled, and crowned with that irresistible crumb topping. But here’s the kicker: making it from scratch? It’s easier than you think. And so, so worth it.

Whether you’re a lifelong lover of Hostess goodies or just a sucker for anything with streusel on top, you’re in the right place. We’re about to break this recipe down in the most detailed, delicious way possible.

Hostess Coffee Cake Recipe: Copycat Comfort At Its Best

This copycat recipe captures every dreamy layer of the original:

• That buttery, tender yellow cake base
• A cinnamon-brown sugar swirl that runs through the center like a warm hug
• And of course, the sweet, slightly crunchy streusel topping that gives it that bakery-style look and taste

It’s like the store-bought kind-but fresher, fluffier, and dare I say, better?

Ingredients Needed: Your Bakery Arsenal

Let’s lay it all out, shall we? Here’s exactly what you need to recreate this beloved treat:

For The Cake

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar – adds that deep, molasses-y warmth
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup sour cream – our secret to ultimate moistness
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract

For The Cinnamon Swirl

• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

For The Crumb Topping

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• ¼ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

Optional: A light vanilla glaze drizzle (confectioners’ sugar + milk + a drop of vanilla extract) if you’re feeling fancy.

‍ How To Make Hostess Coffee Cake: Step-by-Step Breakdown

All right, friend, roll up those sleeves. Here’s the play-by-play:

Preheat And Prep

• Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Make The Crumb Topping First

• In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
• Add cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter (or your fingers!) to mix until you have coarse crumbs. Chill in the fridge while you prep the rest.

Whisk Together Dry Ingredients

• In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and both sugars.

Mix Wet Ingredients

• In another bowl, whisk melted butter, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla until smooth and well-combined.

Combine Wet And Dry

• Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry-don’t overmix! Stir just until no dry streaks remain.

Create That Signature Swirl

• Pour half the batter into the pan and spread evenly.
• Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mix over the batter.
• Dollop and gently spread the remaining batter on top.

Add The Crumb Topping

• Sprinkle that beautiful, buttery streusel generously over the top.

Bake To Golden Perfection

• Pop it into the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.

Cool And (Optionally) Glaze

• Let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. If you want that classic shiny glaze, now’s the time to drizzle.

Ingredient Science Spotlight: Why These Ingredients Matter

Every component in this cake plays a crucial role. Let’s geek out a little:

• Sour cream: The hero of moisture. It also adds a mild tang that balances the sweetness.
• Brown sugar: Richer and more complex than white sugar, thanks to the molasses content.
• Butter: Provides flavor, fat, and tender texture. Melted butter = easier mixing.
• Baking soda & baking powder: They work together for that perfect lift and fluff.
• Cold butter in topping: Keeps the crumb topping crisp and chunky, rather than melting into the cake.

Understanding this helps you tweak recipes to your liking later on. You’re not just baking-you’re learning the language of cake!

Expert Tips: For Foolproof, Bakery-Worthy Results

Let me share a few secrets that really elevate your cake from ’yum’ to ’oh my gosh, did you make this?!’

• Use room temperature eggs – They mix more evenly and trap air for a lighter crumb.
• Chill your crumb topping – Keeps the butter solid so it crisps up during baking.
• Don’t overmix – Overmixing makes the cake tough. Stir gently, and only until combined.
• Line your pan with parchment – Makes removal and cleanup a breeze.
• Let it rest – Flavor and texture settle as the cake cools. Give it at least 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Recipe Variations: Make It Yours

Want to experiment a little? I fully support that. Here are some fun spins on the classic:

• Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake: Add a layer of thin apple slices in the middle with the swirl.
• Chocolate Chip Crumb Cake: Toss mini chocolate chips into the batter. Decadent!
• Maple Streusel: Add a touch of maple syrup to the crumble topping for a cozy fall twist.
• Mini Muffin Format: Bake them in a muffin tin for individual portions. Cut baking time to 18-22 minutes.
• Vegan Swap: Use plant-based butter, flax eggs (1 tbsp flax + 2.5 tbsp water per egg), and vegan sour cream. It works surprisingly well!

❤️ Final Words: Why This Cake Is More Than Just Cake

Honestly? This isn’t just a copycat recipe-it’s an act of love. It’s about recreating those small comforts from childhood or just slowing down enough to savor a slice of something homemade with your coffee.

It’s the kind of thing you bake on a lazy Sunday morning, or for a friend who needs a little pick-me-up. It’s simple, nostalgic, and full of heart.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients In A Hostess Coffee Cake?

The main ingredients in a Hostess coffee cake typically include flour, sugar, butter, eggs, milk, baking powder, cinnamon, and a crumb topping made of flour, butter, and sugar. Some recipes also include sour cream for added moisture.

How Long Does It Take To Bake A Hostess Coffee Cake?

A Hostess coffee cake usually takes about 35 to 45 minutes to bake at 350°F (175°C), but baking times can vary depending on your oven and the size of your pan. It’s best to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center, which should come out clean.

Can I Use A Different Topping For My Hostess Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can customize the topping for your Hostess coffee cake. Common alternatives include a glaze made of powdered sugar and milk, a streusel topping with nuts, or even a fruit topping like blueberries or apples.

Is It Possible To Make A Hostess Coffee Cake Without Sour Cream?

Yes, you can substitute sour cream with an equal amount of yogurt, buttermilk, or even heavy cream. These substitutes will still provide moisture and a similar texture to the cake.

Can I Make Hostess Coffee Cake Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the Hostess coffee cake ahead of time. You can either bake it the day before and store it in an airtight container, or you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it overnight before baking. If storing, it’s best to wrap it tightly to keep it fresh.

What Kind Of Pan Should I Use For Baking Hostess Coffee Cake?

A 9×9-inch square pan or a 9-inch round cake pan is ideal for baking Hostess coffee cake. These sizes ensure even cooking and the right proportion of cake to crumb topping. You can also use a bundt pan for a more decorative presentation.

Can I Make A Gluten-free Hostess Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of Hostess coffee cake by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to also check the baking powder and other ingredients for gluten-free certification.

What Should I Do If My Hostess Coffee Cake Is Dry?

If your Hostess coffee cake turns out dry, it may be due to overbaking or using too much flour. To prevent this, be sure to measure your flour properly (using the spoon-and-level method), and check the cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time is up.

How Can I Make My Hostess Coffee Cake Extra Moist?

To make your Hostess coffee cake extra moist, you can add sour cream, yogurt, or buttermilk to the batter. You can also brush the cake with a simple syrup or glaze after baking for added moisture.

Can I Freeze Hostess Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can freeze Hostess coffee cake. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave it at room temperature for a few hours or reheat it in the oven.