This Cake Mix Coffee Cake is a simple, semi-homemade recipe that transforms a basic yellow cake mix into a bakery-style treat with minimal effort. A rich, tender crumb and buttery cinnamon topping make it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Using pantry staples and a few quick steps, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing coffee cake ready in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Quick and easy – just mix, pour, and bake.
No-fail results with cake mix as the base.
Delicious cinnamon topping adds warm, sweet crunch.
Perfect for weekend brunches, potlucks, or holiday mornings.

Ingredients Breakdown

Cake Layer

1 box yellow cake mix – The convenient base for a fluffy, flavorful cake.
1/2 cup sour cream – Adds rich moisture and slight tang for a tender crumb.
3 eggs – Provide structure and richness.
1/3 cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist and soft.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds warm, sweet flavor depth.

Cinnamon Crumble Topping

1/2 cup brown sugar – Brings caramel-like sweetness and pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
1/2 cup flour – Helps create the crumble’s structure.
1 tsp cinnamon – Classic spice that gives coffee cake its signature flavor.
1/4 cup melted butter – Binds the topping and adds buttery richness.

Tips and Tricks:

Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble for crunch.
Use spiced cake mix for extra fall flavor.
For a gooey twist, swirl cinnamon sugar into the batter before baking.

Variations and Customizations:

Swap yellow cake mix with white or butter cake mix.
Add a layer of cream cheese filling between the batter and crumble.
Turn it into muffins by using a lined cupcake pan (adjust baking time to 18–22 minutes).

Pairing Suggestions:

Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee, chai latte, or caramel macchiato.
Pair with a fruit salad or scrambled eggs for a full brunch spread.

Storage Instructions:

Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Lasts up to 5 days chilled.
Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp or microwave for 20 seconds.

Cake Mix Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Crumble

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

Print Recipe

Description

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

Ingredients

Scale

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