Panera Bread Coffee Cake Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Alright, friends, gather ’round because today we’re diving into the warm, crumbly, buttery world of Panera Bread Coffee Cake. If you’ve ever wandered into a Panera and been hit by that intoxicating smell of cinnamon and freshly baked cake, you know exactly what I mean. It’s that magical combination of moist, tender cake with a crunchy, cinnamon-swirled crumb topping that makes it a morning staple, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a dessert worthy of celebration.

But here’s the kicker: You don’t have to spend your mornings standing in line or wait for the weekend to satisfy that coffee cake craving. Nope! I’m about to share a step-by-step recipe that captures the essence of Panera’s famous coffee cake – minus the crowds and with all the homemade love.

Get ready to dig into the ingredients, learn the science behind the magic, pick up some pro tips, and explore ways to customize this cake to your heart’s content. Let’s get baking!

Panera Bread Coffee Cake Recipe

This isn’t just any coffee cake. It’s the kind of coffee cake that makes you close your eyes, smile, and say, ’Mmm, this is exactly what I needed.’ We’re talking about a moist, fluffy cake base packed with vanilla flavor, topped generously with a crunchy, sweet cinnamon crumb that offers just the right contrast in texture. Plus, a little cinnamon sugar swirl inside the batter? Oh yes, we’re doing that.

Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll get:

• A soft, buttery crumb that practically melts in your mouth
• A crispy, crumbly topping loaded with cinnamon and brown sugar
• A subtle swirl of cinnamon sugar baked right into the batter for extra flavor depth
• The perfect balance of sweetness – not too overpowering, just enough to brighten your morning coffee or tea

Ingredients Needed

To recreate this classic, you’ll need some simple pantry staples – but don’t be fooled by the simplicity. The magic is in the technique and quality of ingredients. Here’s your shopping list:

• All-purpose flour: The base of your cake; provides structure
• Granulated sugar: For sweetness in the cake batter
• Brown sugar: Adds moisture and caramel notes, especially in the crumb topping
• Baking powder & baking soda: Leavening agents that make the cake rise and stay fluffy
• Salt: Enhances flavors and balances sweetness
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice here, used in the batter, crumb topping, and swirl
• Unsalted butter: Both melted and softened; essential for richness and that tender crumb
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and provide moisture
• Buttermilk: Adds tenderness and a slight tang, plus reacts with baking soda for lift
• Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the cake flavor

Optional but recommended:

• Powdered sugar glaze: A simple drizzle of powdered sugar mixed with milk or lemon juice to add a shiny, sweet finish (totally worth it!)

How To Make Panera Bread Coffee Cake

Ready to get your hands a little floury? Here’s the step-by-step magic:

1. Preheat & Prep: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan – this will hold your coffee cake perfectly.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and half the cinnamon. Set aside.
3. Prepare crumb topping: Combine brown sugar, a bit of flour, cinnamon, and cold, cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Chill this in the fridge to keep it firm.
4. Make the batter: Beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract. Alternate adding your dry ingredients and buttermilk, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix gently – don’t overmix!
5. Layer the cake: Pour half the batter into the pan. Sprinkle half the crumb topping and a cinnamon sugar swirl (mix cinnamon + sugar) over it. Add the remaining batter, then the rest of the crumb topping on top.
6. Bake: Pop it into the oven for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool & Glaze: Let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then drizzle with powdered sugar glaze if desired.
8. Serve & Enjoy: Cut into squares, pair with coffee or tea, and prepare for a happy dance of flavors!

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Now, let’s geek out a little and understand why these ingredients are so important for our coffee cake masterpiece:

• Buttermilk: Its acidity reacts with baking soda, producing carbon dioxide bubbles that give your cake a tender, airy crumb. Plus, it adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
• Baking powder vs. baking soda: Baking powder contains acid and base, so it works on its own, while baking soda needs an acid (like buttermilk) to activate. Using both ensures perfect rise and texture.
• Butter: Besides adding richness, butter coats the flour proteins, which limits gluten development – resulting in a softer crumb. Using cold butter in the crumb topping helps create those lovely crisp, crunchy bits.
• Cinnamon: Not just flavor – cinnamon has antioxidant properties and adds aromatic warmth that complements the sweetness without overpowering it.

Expert Tips

Want to bake like a pro? Here are some insider nuggets:

• Don’t overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing develops gluten, making the cake dense and chewy instead of tender.
• Cold butter for crumb topping: Keep the butter cubes cold so the crumb topping stays chunky and crispy after baking.
• Chill the crumb topping: This step prevents the topping from melting into the batter, keeping that signature texture.
• Use fresh cinnamon: It makes a noticeable difference – old cinnamon loses its punchy flavor and aroma.
• Let it cool before slicing: The cake firms up slightly, making it easier to cut neat squares without crumbling.

Recipe Variations

Feeling creative or want to switch things up? Here are some delicious twists:

• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts in the crumb topping add a delightful crunch.
• Berry burst: Swirl in some fresh or frozen blueberries or raspberries for a fruity surprise.
• Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, and maybe add a teaspoon of xanthan gum for structure.
• Spiced up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves along with cinnamon for a cozy, spiced vibe.
• Chocolate chip: Toss some mini chocolate chips into the batter for a melty chocolate hit.

Final Words

There you have it! Baking Panera Bread’s famous coffee cake at home is totally doable and incredibly rewarding. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for brunch, dessert, or any time you want a sweet treat paired with your favorite hot drink. Plus, knowing exactly what goes into your cake and customizing it to your taste makes it all the more special.

So next time you crave that tender crumb, crunchy topping, and cinnamon-sugar bliss, skip the bakery line and bake your own slice of heaven right in your kitchen!

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients In The Panera Bread Coffee Cake Recipe?

The main ingredients include all-purpose flour, sugar, butter, eggs, sour cream, baking powder, and a cinnamon-sugar mixture for the topping.

How Can I Make The Panera Bread Coffee Cake Healthier?

To make the coffee cake healthier, consider using whole wheat flour, reducing the amount of sugar, or substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream to lower fat content.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Flour For The Panera Bread Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can use gluten-free flour or almond flour for a gluten-free version. However, this may slightly alter the texture and consistency.

Can I Make The Panera Bread Coffee Cake Without Sour Cream?

Yes, you can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt or buttermilk for a similar texture and tangy flavor.

Is It Possible To Freeze The Panera Bread Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the coffee cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw it at room temperature or in the microwave.

How Long Will The Panera Bread Coffee Cake Last In The Fridge?

The coffee cake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5-7 days.

What Is The Texture Of The Panera Bread Coffee Cake Like?

The texture is moist and dense with a tender crumb. The cinnamon-sugar topping provides a slight crunch and added sweetness.

Can I Add Fruit Or Nuts To The Panera Bread Coffee Cake Recipe?

Yes, you can add fruit like blueberries or chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra flavor and texture.

How Should I Serve The Panera Bread Coffee Cake?

Panera Bread coffee cake is typically served at room temperature or slightly warmed. It pairs well with coffee or tea as a breakfast or snack.

What Type Of Pan Is Best For Baking The Panera Bread Coffee Cake?

A 9-inch round or square baking pan works best for this recipe. Be sure to grease the pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.