Cake Mix Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Crumble Topping

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

If you’re craving a warm, comforting treat that tastes like it came straight from a bakery—but takes minimal effort—this Cake Mix Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Crumble is your dream come true. With a moist, tender crumb and a buttery cinnamon-sugar topping, it’s the perfect blend of ease and indulgence.

Ideal for busy mornings, casual brunches, or sweet holiday spreads, this coffee cake uses pantry staples and a shortcut cake mix to deliver big flavor with little fuss. It’s a cozy crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with your favorite coffee or tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Uses boxed cake mix for quick prep

• Buttery cinnamon crumble topping—no mixer needed

• Perfect for brunch, holidays, or coffee breaks

• Family-friendly and freezer-friendly

• Moist, bakery-style texture without the hassle

• Great make-ahead treat for guests or gatherings

Advertisements

Ingredient Breakdown

• Yellow Cake Mix: The base of the cake—provides structure and flavor with minimal prep.

• Sour Cream: Adds moisture and gives the cake a tender crumb.

• Eggs: Help bind the batter and give richness.

• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist and soft.

• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the cake’s flavor with warm, sweet notes.

• Brown Sugar: Brings a rich molasses depth to the crumble topping.

• All-Purpose Flour: Gives the crumble structure and texture.

• Cinnamon: Adds cozy warmth and classic spice.

• Melted Butter: Binds the topping and adds rich, buttery flavor.

Pro Tips

• Don’t overmix the batter—mix until just combined for a light crumb.

• Use parchment paper to make removal and cleanup easier.

• Add a handful of chopped pecans to the crumble for extra crunch.

• Let the cake cool slightly before slicing for clean, even cuts.

• Double the crumble topping for an extra indulgent finish.

Ingredient Swaps or Variations

• Cake Mix: Use spice cake or white cake mix for a different base flavor.

• Sour Cream Substitute: Greek yogurt works just as well for added protein.

• Add-Ins: Mix in chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips to the batter.

• Fruit Twist: Add a layer of thinly sliced apples or peaches before the crumble.

• Glaze Option: Drizzle a powdered sugar glaze for a bakery-style finish.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with coffee or chai latte for a cozy breakfast.

• Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for dessert.

• Pair with scrambled eggs and bacon for a sweet-savory brunch combo.

• Add a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple, elegant touch.

Make Ahead + Storage Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the batter and crumble topping separately and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Assemble just before baking.

• Storage: Store leftovers tightly covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Wrap cooled slices in plastic and foil; freeze for up to 2 months.

• Reheat: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

Cultural or Historical Notes

Coffee cake has European roots but became a staple in American kitchens thanks to its simplicity and compatibility with morning coffee. This shortcut version delivers that nostalgic charm with the convenience of a boxed mix.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes! Spice cake, butter pecan, or even chocolate work well for variations.

Can I make this in a bundt pan?
You can, but adjust the bake time to 40–45 minutes and check for doneness.

Is the crumble supposed to be crunchy?
Yes, the butter and sugar create a slightly crunchy, caramelized topping.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely—just use a larger pan or two 9×13 pans and bake in batches.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes! Freeze individual slices wrapped tightly for quick grab-and-go snacks or breakfasts.

Cake Mix Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Crumble Topping

---

• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Buttery cinnamon crumble over moist yellow cake mix batter—bakery-worthy in minutes!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 box yellow cake mix

• ½ cup sour cream

• 3 large eggs

• ⅓ cup vegetable oil

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ½ cup brown sugar

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

---

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Make the Cake Batter:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, sour cream, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.

• Beat until smooth and fully combined (about 1–2 minutes).

3. Pour into the Dish:

• Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.

• Smooth the top with a spatula.

4. Prepare the Crumble Topping:

• In a small bowl, stir together brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon.

• Add melted butter and mix with a fork until crumbly.

5. Top and Bake:

• Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the cake batter.

• Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. Cool and Serve:

• Let cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

• Serve warm or at room temperature with coffee, tea, or milk.

Notes

This Cake Mix Coffee Cake is perfect for when you want homemade flavor with minimal effort. It’s a fantastic last-minute bake for gatherings, brunches, or weekday treats. Keep the ingredients on hand, and you’ll always be just 30 minutes away from cinnamon-spiced comfort.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?