Name: Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz); 3 large eggs; 1 cup sour cream; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup brown sugar; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2–3 tablespoons milk or cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

If there’s one thing I love most about weekend mornings, it’s the smell of coffee brewing and something sweet baking in the oven. This Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake is my go-to recipe when I want something indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s warm, buttery, and packed with layers of cinnamon-sugar crumble and creamy glaze that takes boxed cake mix to a whole new level.

I’ve made this coffee cake countless times — for brunches, potlucks, and even late-night cravings. Every single time, it disappears faster than I expect. It’s the kind of simple pleasure that reminds you how easy comfort baking can be. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself (no judgment here), this cake will hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake

This coffee cake is incredibly quick to prepare, and the result is pure bakery-style bliss. It starts with a yellow cake mix, which means less measuring and more relaxing. The cinnamon-sugar swirl gives it that classic coffee cake charm, and the addition of sour cream makes it moist and tender beyond belief. Plus, that sweet drizzle on top? It seals the deal.

Can I Use Any Kind of Cake Mix?

Yes! While I prefer a classic yellow cake mix for its buttery flavor, white cake mix works beautifully too. Even spice cake mix can add a deeper, cozier note — perfect for the colder months. Just make sure it’s a standard 15.25-ounce box so the proportions stay right.

Substitution Options

Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is a great substitute and adds a slight tang.
Butter: Melted coconut oil or plant-based butter can be used for a dairy-free version.
Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar works if you’re looking for a refined sugar alternative.
Milk: Any dairy or non-dairy milk can be used for the glaze.

Ingredients for this Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake

Yellow Cake Mix: This is the base of the recipe, saving time while still delivering a rich, moist texture.
Eggs: They bind the batter together and add structure and moisture.
Sour Cream: Essential for keeping the cake extra soft and giving it that subtle tangy flavor.
Vegetable Oil: Keeps the crumb moist and tender — no dry bites here.
Brown Sugar: Adds deep caramel-like flavor and combines with cinnamon to create the perfect streusel swirl.
Ground Cinnamon: The warm spice note that gives coffee cake its signature flavor.
Butter (melted): Used in the crumb topping for richness and to help create those golden, crispy edges.
Powdered Sugar: For the glaze, bringing sweetness and a beautiful finish.
Milk or Cream: Used to thin out the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of both the cake and glaze.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prep the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. This ensures the cake doesn’t stick and makes cleanup easy.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, sour cream, and vegetable oil. Beat with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and well blended — about 2 minutes. The batter will be thick and creamy.

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Crumble

In a medium bowl, mix the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until crumbly. This will be your layered filling and topping.

Step 4: Layer the Cake

Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon crumble over the batter. Pour the remaining batter over the crumble and spread again. Top with the remaining cinnamon mixture.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the coffee cake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and the crumble slightly crisp.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

While the cake bakes, whisk together powdered sugar, milk (or cream), and a splash of vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust thickness by adding more sugar or milk as needed.

Step 7: Glaze and Cool

Once the cake is out of the oven, allow it to cool for about 15 minutes. Drizzle the glaze generously over the top. Serve warm or at room temperature.

How Long to Prepare the Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake

Preparation Time: Mixing the batter and assembling the layers takes about 15 minutes, especially since you’re using a boxed cake mix which cuts down the effort significantly. Preparing the cinnamon crumble and glaze adds just a few extra minutes.

Baking Time: Bake the coffee cake for 35–40 minutes in a preheated 350°F oven. Cooling it for about 15 minutes before adding the glaze ensures the topping doesn’t melt away and holds beautifully.

Tips for Perfect Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake

Use full-fat sour cream for the best moist texture.
Don’t overmix the batter — mix just until combined for a tender crumb.
Let the cake cool slightly before glazing to prevent it from soaking in too much.
Double the cinnamon sugar layer if you want a thicker swirl.
For extra crunch, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Using cold ingredients: Let your eggs and sour cream come to room temperature so they blend evenly.
Overbaking: Check doneness at the 35-minute mark. Overbaking can dry out the cake.
Too much glaze too soon: Wait at least 15 minutes before glazing to keep the top visually appealing.
Skipping the non-stick prep: Always grease or line your pan well to avoid sticking.
Uneven layers: Spread the batter and crumble gently and evenly to ensure uniform texture.

What to Serve With Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake?

1. Hot Coffee

A rich, dark roast or cinnamon-flavored coffee pairs beautifully with the warm spices in the cake.

2. Fresh Berries

Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries offer a bright, fresh contrast to the rich cake.

3. Greek Yogurt

A small bowl of unsweetened Greek yogurt can balance the sweetness and add creaminess.

4. Scrambled Eggs

Keep it simple and savory with a side of soft scrambled eggs to round out your breakfast or brunch.

5. Chai or Spiced Tea

If coffee isn’t your thing, a spiced tea adds warmth that complements the cinnamon notes in the cake.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The crumble might soften a bit but it’ll still be delicious.

Refrigerator: If you prefer to refrigerate it, wrap the cake well or place in a sealed container. It’ll last 5–6 days. Reheat slices in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds to bring back that just-baked texture.

Freezer: This coffee cake freezes well. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat directly in the microwave.

Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving — based on 12 servings)

Calories: ~320
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Sugar: 25g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sodium: 280mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Just wait to glaze until shortly before serving.

Can I use a different size pan?

You can use two 8×8 pans or a bundt pan — just adjust the baking time and check for doneness with a toothpick.

How do I keep the crumble from sinking?

Make sure the batter is thick, and gently press the crumble into the batter when layering to help it stay in place.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and double-check that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

A quick 15–20 seconds in the microwave will warm up individual slices and soften the crumb.

Conclusion

This Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake brings comfort and flavor together in the most effortless way. With minimal prep, pantry-friendly ingredients, and a taste that rivals anything from a bakery, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself turning to again and again. Whether you enjoy it with your morning coffee or as a sweet treat after dinner, it never disappoints. Simple, satisfying, and absolutely delicious.