Overnight Coffee Cake Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Hey there, fellow kitchen adventurer! Have you ever woken up on a weekend morning craving something warm, comforting, and irresistibly delicious – but without the stress of a last-minute bake? That’s exactly where an Overnight Coffee Cake shines. It’s the kind of recipe that lets you do all the hard work the night before, so your morning starts with the delightful aroma of freshly baked cake wafting through the air.

Whether you’re hosting brunch, surprising your family, or just treating yourself (because you deserve it), this cake hits all the right notes: tender crumb, a buttery swirl of cinnamon and sugar, and a crunchy topping that’s basically heaven in each bite. Plus, it pairs beautifully with your morning coffee or tea – hence the name! So, let’s dive into why this cake is a total game-changer and how you can make it your new breakfast bestie.

Overnight Coffee Cake Recipe

This recipe is your best friend if you want something that feels homemade and indulgent without the morning rush stress. The magic happens overnight – mix it up, pop it in the fridge, and in the morning, bake until golden and perfect. It’s that simple, but oh so rewarding!

Here’s what you’ll be creating:

• A moist, tender cake with a light crumb.
• A cinnamon-sugar swirl that melts into the cake’s center.
• A buttery, crunchy streusel topping for texture contrast.
• A subtle sweetness balanced with just the right amount of cinnamon spice.

Ingredients Needed

Before we jump in, here’s your shopping list – all the essentials for the best Overnight Coffee Cake. Simple ingredients, mostly pantry staples:

For The Cake Batter

• All-purpose flour – The foundation of your cake’s structure.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetness and moisture.
• Baking powder – To give that lovely rise and fluffiness.
• Salt – To enhance flavors.
• Milk (whole or 2%) – For tenderness and moisture.
• Vegetable oil or melted butter – Adds richness and moist texture.
• Eggs – The binder that holds everything together.
• Vanilla extract – Because vanilla is the unsung hero in almost every cake.

For The Cinnamon Sugar Swirl

• Brown sugar – For deep caramel notes.
• Ground cinnamon – That warm, fragrant spice.
• Butter (softened) – Helps bind the sugar and cinnamon to swirl into the cake.

For The Streusel Topping

• All-purpose flour – The base of your crumble.
• Brown sugar – Sweet and slightly sticky.
• Cold butter – Cut into small pieces to create those perfect crumbs.
• Ground cinnamon – Adds spice to the crunchy topping.
• Optional chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) – For extra crunch and nutty flavor.

How To Make Overnight Coffee Cake

Alright, time to get hands-on! Here’s the step-by-step breakdown, with enough detail to make you feel like a pro baker.

Evening Before Baking

1. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents for a perfect rise.
2. Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk milk, oil (or melted butter), eggs, and vanilla until smooth and fully combined.
3. Create batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir gently until just combined – avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
4. Prepare cinnamon sugar swirl: Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter until crumbly but spreadable.
5. Assemble in baking dish: Pour half the batter into a greased baking pan. Dollop and spread the cinnamon sugar mixture over it, then top with the remaining batter. This layering creates that gorgeous swirl inside.
6. Make streusel topping: Combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter, using a fork or pastry cutter to form coarse crumbs. Sprinkle generously over the top.
7. Cover and refrigerate: Seal the pan with plastic wrap or a lid, then pop it in the fridge overnight.

Morning Of Baking

1. Preheat oven: Get your oven warmed to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake uncovered: Place your chilled coffee cake in the oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Cool slightly and serve: Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing – that way, it sets up perfectly and won’t crumble.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Want to sound like a baking wizard at your next brunch? Here’s the science behind your cake’s magic:

• Flour contains gluten, which develops when mixed with liquids, creating the structure. But overmixing can make the cake tough – so gentle folding is key.
• Baking powder is a chemical leavener. It releases carbon dioxide bubbles that get trapped in the batter, making your cake rise and feel airy.
• Fat (butter or oil) coats flour proteins, limiting gluten development and resulting in a softer, moist crumb.
• Sugar doesn’t just sweeten – it also helps retain moisture, keeping your cake fresh longer.
• Cinnamon has natural antioxidant properties and contributes a warm, inviting aroma, which psychologically enhances the sense of comfort and indulgence.
• Cold butter in streusel creates a crumbly, flaky texture as it melts during baking, forming the beloved crunchy topping.

Expert Tips

Let me share some golden nuggets from baking pros to help you nail this cake every time:

• Don’t skip chilling the batter. Overnight rest allows the flour to hydrate fully, improving texture and flavor.
• Use room temperature eggs and milk. They incorporate more smoothly and help the cake rise evenly.
• Butter vs. oil: Butter gives more flavor; oil keeps the cake moist. Feel free to experiment or combine both!
• Swirl it with a knife: If you want a more pronounced cinnamon swirl, gently swirl the cinnamon sugar layer with a knife before adding the top batter.
• Don’t open the oven door too often. Sudden temperature drops can cause your cake to deflate.
• Test for doneness with a toothpick, not by eye – a golden top doesn’t always mean the center is cooked.

Recipe Variations

Bored with the classic? Here are some fun twists to customize your Overnight Coffee Cake:

• Add fruit: Toss fresh or frozen berries into the batter for bursts of tartness.
• Chocolate lovers unite: Stir in chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top before baking.
• Nutty upgrade: Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the streusel for extra crunch.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon swirl for a more complex flavor.
• Glaze finish: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze with a splash of vanilla or lemon juice over the cooled cake for extra sweetness and flair.
• Vegan twist: Use flax eggs and plant-based milk, swap butter for coconut oil, and you’ve got a vegan version!

Final Words

Honestly, there’s something wonderfully satisfying about waking up to a homemade cake that’s been quietly baking itself while you slept. This Overnight Coffee Cake recipe blends simplicity and elegance in a way that makes every bite feel like a cozy morning hug. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – so feel free to tweak it until it suits your taste buds perfectly.

Remember, baking is as much about joy and creativity as it is about following rules. So pour yourself a cup of coffee, take your time, and enjoy the whole process. Your future self will thank you when you slice into that perfect, cinnamon-streaked cake.

FAQs

What Is An Overnight Coffee Cake Recipe?

An overnight coffee cake recipe is a type of cake that is prepared the night before and left to rise or refrigerate overnight. The ingredients are typically mixed, and the cake is assembled and stored in the fridge overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the dough to rise slowly. The next morning, it can be baked and served fresh.

Can I Use Any Type Of Cake Mix For An Overnight Coffee Cake Recipe?

While you can use a pre-made cake mix for convenience, an overnight coffee cake recipe is typically made from scratch to ensure better flavor and texture. You can use a vanilla, cinnamon, or other flavor cake mix as a base, but it’s better to use a recipe that combines flour, sugar, eggs, and other ingredients for a more authentic result.

Do I Need To Refrigerate The Coffee Cake Overnight?

Yes, refrigerating the coffee cake overnight helps the dough rise slowly, enhancing its flavor and texture. The cold environment also allows the cake to develop a light, airy structure. Be sure to cover the cake well to prevent it from drying out.

How Long Should I Bake An Overnight Coffee Cake?

Baking time for an overnight coffee cake typically ranges from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of the cake and the specific recipe. It’s recommended to bake at 350°F (175°C), but you should check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or cake tester into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Can I Make An Overnight Coffee Cake Without Yeast?

Yes, many overnight coffee cake recipes do not require yeast. These cakes often rely on baking powder or baking soda as leavening agents. If you’re avoiding yeast, look for recipes that use these alternatives for rise and fluffiness.

What Types Of Toppings Can I Add To An Overnight Coffee Cake?

Common toppings for an overnight coffee cake include crumbly streusel, cinnamon sugar, nuts (like pecans or walnuts), and glazes or frosting. Some recipes may also incorporate fruit like berries or apples into the batter or as a topping.

Can I Use Gluten-free Flour For An Overnight Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can use gluten-free flour for an overnight coffee cake. However, gluten-free flours may yield a slightly different texture and consistency. It’s best to use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, and you may need to adjust the liquid amounts or add binders like xanthan gum for better results.

What Can I Do If I Forget To Make The Coffee Cake The Night Before?

If you forget to make the coffee cake the night before, you can still prepare it in the morning, but it won’t have the same depth of flavor. Let the dough rest for 30 minutes to an hour for a quick rise before baking. You may also choose to skip the overnight step and bake immediately if you’re short on time.

Can I Freeze Leftover Overnight Coffee Cake?

Yes, leftover overnight coffee cake can be frozen. Allow the cake to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. To reheat, let it thaw at room temperature or warm it in the oven at a low temperature, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.

What Makes An Overnight Coffee Cake Different From Regular Coffee Cake?

The main difference between overnight coffee cake and regular coffee cake is the preparation process. Overnight coffee cakes are assembled and allowed to rise or set overnight, which enhances the flavor and texture. Regular coffee cakes are usually prepared and baked on the same day, with no extended resting period, making the latter quicker but with less depth in flavor.