The Mixed Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Swirl and Crumble Topping Recipe is a delightful treat that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine tender, moist cake layers perfectly balanced with a sweet and spicy cinnamon swirl nestled right in the middle, topped off with a buttery crumble that adds the perfect crunchy finish. This classic coffee cake is not only easy to make but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for breakfast, brunch, or any cozy occasion where a little sweetness is needed to brighten the day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is all it takes to bring this scrumptious cake to life. Each component plays a crucial role, from creating the cake’s moist texture to flashing those inviting golden hues and rich cinnamon aroma that everyone will love.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, providing structure and tenderness.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to keep every bite perfectly balanced.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures the cake rises beautifully and stays light.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup milk: Contributes moisture and gives the cake a soft crumb.
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender without overpowering flavor.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the cake’s flavor.
- For the cinnamon swirl – 1/3 cup packed brown sugar: Delivers sweet molasses tones with cinnamon.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The spicy star in the swirl, adding irresistible aroma.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter: Binds the swirl ingredients and adds richness.
- For the crumble topping – 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the crumbly texture.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Sweet and slightly caramelized flavor for the topping.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a hint of warm spice in the crumble.
- 2 tablespoons cold butter: Cut into small pieces to create that perfect crumbly texture.
How to Make Mixed Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Swirl and Crumble Topping Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the ideal baking environment. Grease and flour an 8-inch square baking pan thoroughly to ensure your coffee cake doesn’t stick and comes out flawlessly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This step evenly distributes the rising agents and seasoning, setting the stage for a perfectly textured crumb.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, blend the milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract. Mixing these until smooth helps the ingredients come together, creating a lush batter that results in a moist, flavorful cake.
Step 4: Bring Batter Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as this keeps your coffee cake soft and tender instead of dense.
Step 5: Make the Cinnamon Swirl
Mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter in a small bowl. This luscious swirl will infuse the cake with warm, spicy notes and pockets of sweetness that make each bite unforgettable.
Step 6: Layer Batter and Swirl
Pour half of the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the cinnamon swirl mixture over this layer to create that iconic, gooey center.
Step 7: Add Remaining Batter
Carefully pour the remaining batter on top, gently spreading it to cover the cinnamon swirl without disturbing it. This layering technique creates that beautiful contrast inside the coffee cake.
Step 8: Create and Add Crumble Topping
Combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the crumble. Cut in the cold butter with your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, then sprinkle it evenly over the batter. This topping bakes into a delightful crunchy layer that contrasts perfectly with the soft cake beneath.
Step 9: Bake and Cool
Bake your masterpiece for 30-35 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean. Allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan before slicing so the swirl sets and the flavors meld.
How to Serve Mixed Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Swirl and Crumble Topping Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of cream cheese glaze elevates this coffee cake immediately. If you want an extra touch, a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts adds a lovely crunch and earthy flavor.
Side Dishes
This coffee cake pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples for a refreshing balance. A cup of hot coffee or a creamy latte complements the cinnamon and sugar notes perfectly, making it an ideal breakfast or mid-morning pick-me-up.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Mixed Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Swirl and Crumble Topping Recipe on a rustic wooden board to highlight its homemade charm. For gatherings, cut it into small squares and stack them on a tiered platter. Wrap individual slices in parchment for sweet gifts or portable treats.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, wrap the coffee cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it moist. It stays fresh at room temperature for about 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully! Wrap slices individually or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in a low oven (about 300°F) for 10 minutes. This restores that fresh-baked warmth and revives the crumble topping’s crispiness.
FAQs
Can I substitute vegetable oil with butter?
Yes, you can replace vegetable oil with melted butter for a richer flavor, but it may slightly change the cake’s texture, making it a bit denser. Either way, it will still be delicious!
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Whole wheat flour can be used, but it will make the cake heavier and alter the crumb. For best results, try a half-and-half mixture or stick to all-purpose flour for the lightest texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose baking flour blend that includes xanthan gum to help with structure. The texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will remain just as tasty.
What can I do if my crumble topping is too wet?
If your crumble feels wet and clumpy, chill it in the fridge for 10 minutes before sprinkling over the batter. Cold butter helps create that perfect crumbly texture once baked.
Can I add nuts or fruit to this coffee cake?
Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans stir nicely into the batter or topping for added crunch. You can also fold in dried cranberries or blueberries for a fruity twist that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough giving the Mixed Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Swirl and Crumble Topping Recipe a try soon. It’s a wonderful way to bring cozy flavors and comforting textures to your table with ease. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a special treat, this coffee cake promises to deliver that heartwarming, homemade goodness everyone will adore.
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Mixed Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Swirl and Crumble Topping Recipe
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
Description
This Mix Coffee Cake is a deliciously moist and flavorful coffee cake perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat. Featuring a cinnamon swirl center and a crunchy crumble topping, it delivers a delightful contrast of textures and a warm cinnamon-sugar flavor throughout.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Swirl
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Crumble Topping
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons cold butter (cut into small pieces)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch square baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening and flavor.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth, creating a uniform wet mixture.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently just until combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
- Prepare Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until well combined to form the flavorful cinnamon swirl mixture.
- Layer Batter and Swirl: Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon swirl mixture over this first layer.
- Top with Remaining Batter: Pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon swirl, spreading it gently to cover the swirl completely.
- Make Crumble Topping: Mix the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Cut the cold butter into the mixture using your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this crumble evenly over the batter.
- Bake: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling that the cake is fully cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan before slicing and serving to enjoy optimal texture and flavor.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to prevent a dense coffee cake.
- Use cold butter for the crumble topping for a better crumbly texture.
- Make sure to test doneness with a toothpick as oven temperatures vary.
- The cake is best served slightly warm but can be refrigerated and warmed before serving.
- You can substitute vegetable oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
