Long John Coffee Cake Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Oh, the magic of a Long John Coffee Cake! This isn’t your run-of-the-mill breakfast pastry. Picture a moist, tender cake bursting with layers of buttery cinnamon swirls, topped with a crunchy, sugary streusel that cracks delightfully with every bite. Originating from the Midwest and named after the iconic Long John doughnut, this coffee cake has that same flaky, sweet doughy charm, but in a cake form that’s easier to slice and serve. It’s perfect for family breakfasts, weekend brunches, or just when you want to treat yourself to something comforting and sweet.

• Why is it special? It combines the soft crumb of a cake with the rich, caramelized cinnamon and sugar layers, all topped with a buttery, crumbly streusel.
• When to enjoy? Breakfast, brunch, coffee breaks, or even dessert – honestly, it’s so good, it doesn’t discriminate by time.
• The vibe: Rustic, homey, nostalgic, and full of warmth – like a sweet hug in food form.

Ready to become the Long John Coffee Cake maestro in your kitchen? Let’s get cooking!

Long John Coffee Cake Recipe

Here’s what you’re about to master – a cake that’s soft yet structured, with ribbons of cinnamon-sugar magic woven inside and a streusel topping that crunches just right. The cake’s texture is a bit between a traditional coffee cake and a cinnamon roll, which means it’s buttery, tender, and sweet without being overly rich.

You’ll end up with a beautiful loaf or square cake, perfect for slicing thick or thin depending on your mood. And because it’s baked, it’s easier to serve than individual pastries.

Ingredients Needed

Let’s talk essentials! Having all the ingredients on hand makes the process so smooth, and knowing why each one is important is half the fun.

• All-purpose flour – The backbone of the cake, providing structure.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens and helps with browning.
• Brown sugar – Adds moisture and that deep, caramel flavor.
• Butter (unsalted) – For richness, moisture, and that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Eggs – Bind everything together and contribute to the cake’s tenderness.
• Baking powder & baking soda – Leavening agents that make the cake rise and become fluffy.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Milk or buttermilk – Adds moisture and slight acidity, which tenderizes the cake.
• Vanilla extract – The subtle, sweet aromatic that brings all flavors together.
• Cinnamon – The star spice in the filling and streusel, warming and aromatic.
• Optional nuts (walnuts or pecans) – For a crunchy contrast in the streusel topping.

How To Make Long John Coffee Cake

Now, the fun part: the step-by-step journey to cake heaven.

1. Prepare your pan: Grease and flour a loaf pan or an 8×8 square pan.
2. Mix dry ingredients: Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream butter and sugars: Beat softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs and vanilla: Incorporate eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract.
5. Alternate wet and dry: Add the flour mixture alternating with milk (or buttermilk) until just combined.
6. Make the cinnamon swirl: Mix cinnamon and brown sugar together.
7. Layer the batter and filling: Pour half the batter into the pan, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar swirl evenly, then add the remaining batter on top.
8. Create the streusel topping: Mix butter, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nuts (if using) until crumbly, then sprinkle over the top.
9. Bake: At about 350°F (175°C) for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
10. Cool and serve: Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Let’s geek out for a moment! Understanding what’s happening beneath the surface makes baking even more satisfying.

• Butter: When creamed with sugar, butter traps air, which expands during baking and helps the cake rise.
• Brown sugar vs. granulated sugar: Brown sugar contains molasses, adding moisture and a deeper flavor. It keeps the cake softer and adds that caramel note.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Baking powder contains both an acid and a base; baking soda is pure base and needs an acid (like buttermilk) to activate. This combination ensures a good rise and tender crumb.
• Cinnamon: Beyond flavor, cinnamon also contains antioxidants and natural preservatives.
• Buttermilk: Its acidity breaks down gluten slightly, making the cake tenderer and adding a subtle tang.

Expert Tips

Let me share some insider wisdom that takes this cake from good to amazing:

• Don’t overmix the batter! Stir until ingredients just come together to avoid a dense cake.
• Use room temperature ingredients. This helps everything mix smoothly and traps air better.
• Layer evenly! Spread the cinnamon sugar swirl carefully so every bite has that perfect cinnamon burst.
• Chill the streusel topping briefly. It helps it stay crumbly and crisp rather than melting into the batter.
• Check for doneness early. Oven temperatures vary – start checking at 40 minutes.

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here’s how you can customize your Long John Coffee Cake:

• Nut-free: Simply omit nuts in the streusel for a smooth crunch.
• Fruit twist: Add chopped apples or dried cranberries in the swirl layer.
• Gluten-free: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Spiced up: Add nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon swirl for extra warmth.
• Icing glaze: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze on top once cooled for extra sweetness.
• Chocolate lover’s version: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the batter or swirl layer.

Final Words

Long John Coffee Cake is more than just a dessert or breakfast treat; it’s a feel-good experience wrapped in cinnamon-scented nostalgia. Each slice brings buttery richness, a tender crumb, and that crisp streusel finish that leaves you reaching for another piece (or two). It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make but impressive enough to serve at any gathering.

FAQs

What Is A Long John Coffee Cake?

A Long John Coffee Cake is a type of cake that combines the flavors of a traditional coffee cake with a Long John doughnut. It typically features a moist, cinnamon-flavored batter topped with a sugary glaze or frosting. The cake is often baked in a long rectangular shape, mimicking the appearance of a Long John doughnut.

How Do I Make The Batter For Long John Coffee Cake?

To make the batter, you will need basic ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, eggs, milk, baking powder, and cinnamon. The dry ingredients are mixed with wet ingredients to form a thick batter, which is then poured into a prepared baking pan and spread evenly.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Frosting For Long John Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can use various frostings or glazes for the Long John Coffee Cake. Popular options include a simple powdered sugar glaze, cream cheese frosting, or even a chocolate glaze if you’re looking for a more indulgent option.

What Kind Of Pan Should I Use For Long John Coffee Cake?

A 9×13-inch baking pan is ideal for making Long John Coffee Cake, as it helps the batter spread evenly and cook uniformly. Some recipes also suggest using a jelly roll pan for a thinner cake.

How Long Does Long John Coffee Cake Need To Bake?

Long John Coffee Cake typically needs to bake for 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C), but this can vary based on your oven. Always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.

Can I Make Long John Coffee Cake Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the Long John Coffee Cake a day ahead. Simply bake the cake, allow it to cool, and then store it in an airtight container. You can frost it the next morning before serving.

Can I Substitute The Cinnamon In The Recipe?

While cinnamon is a classic choice for this cake, you can substitute it with other spices such as nutmeg, allspice, or pumpkin pie spice for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that these spices may alter the overall taste.

What Can I Serve With Long John Coffee Cake?

Long John Coffee Cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee, tea, or even milk. It’s perfect for brunches, holiday gatherings, or as an afternoon snack.

Is Long John Coffee Cake Suitable For Special Dietary Needs?

Traditional Long John Coffee Cake recipes are not typically gluten-free or dairy-free. However, you can modify the recipe by using gluten-free flour, dairy-free butter, and non-dairy milk to make it suitable for those with specific dietary restrictions.

Can I Freeze Long John Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can freeze Long John Coffee Cake. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the fridge and frost before serving.