Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake

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Nothing beats the cozy aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the kitchen—except maybe the first bite of this Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake. With layers of buttery yellow cake, creamy vanilla filling, and a generous brown sugar crumble on top, it delivers bakery-style results with minimal effort.

This shortcut version transforms a boxed cake mix into a stunning dessert that feels homemade and comforting. It’s perfect for brunch gatherings, lazy weekends, or those moments when you just need something sweet, warm, and nostalgic.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving in, take a moment to gather the right tools. These will make your baking smooth and mess-free:

• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Ensures even baking and the perfect height for your cake layers.
• Electric Mixer: Helps you quickly combine the cake mix and achieve a fluffy batter.
• Mixing Bowls (2-3): One for the cake batter, one for the cream cheese filling, and another for the crumb topping.
• Rubber Spatula: Ideal for scraping down bowls and spreading layers smoothly.
• Whisk or Fork: Handy for blending the streusel topping to a crumbly texture.
• Oven Thermometer: Optional but helpful to ensure precise temperature for best baking results.

Using the right tools not only saves time but also helps you get bakery-quality texture with less stress.

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Ingredients for the Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake

• Yellow Cake Mix: Acts as the base layer and provides a buttery, fluffy texture without starting from scratch.
• Eggs: Essential for structure and richness in the cake layer.
• Vegetable Oil: Adds moisture and softness.
• Water: Helps activate the cake mix and balance the consistency.
• Cream Cheese: Creates a creamy, tangy center that contrasts perfectly with the sweet crumb.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling for that luscious middle layer.
• Brown Sugar: The star of the crumb topping, offering deep caramel-like flavor.
• Cinnamon: Brings warmth and spice to complement the sweetness.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps form the crumble topping with the right texture.
• Butter (melted): Binds the crumble together and adds a rich, indulgent finish.

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How To Make the Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layer

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Use an electric mixer to beat until smooth, then pour the batter evenly into your greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Filling

In a separate bowl, blend the cream cheese and powdered sugar until silky smooth. Drop spoonfuls over the cake batter and gently swirl with a spatula—but don’t overmix. The goal is luscious pockets of creamy goodness.

Step 3: Mix the Cinnamon Crumb Topping

In another bowl, stir together brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Pour in the melted butter and mix with a fork until large crumbs form. Sprinkle generously over the entire cake.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (some creamy filling is expected). Let it cool slightly before slicing.

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Serving and Storing Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake

This coffee cake is best served slightly warm with a drizzle of glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for an irresistibly cozy experience.

To store leftovers, cover the dish tightly or transfer slices into an airtight container. It keeps well at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months.

To reheat, simply microwave a slice for 15–20 seconds or warm it in the oven at 300°F for 8–10 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the coffee cake is fully baked?

The edges should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cake (not the cream cheese filling) should come out clean.

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Yes! Vanilla, butter, or even spice cake mix can add a fun twist to the flavor profile.

Is it okay to skip the cream cheese layer?

You can skip it, but the cream cheese adds a creamy texture and richness that makes this coffee cake extra special.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can make it the night before and warm it just before serving. It also freezes well.

What kind of glaze works best?

A simple mix of powdered sugar and milk or vanilla glaze is perfect. You can also try maple glaze for a fall-inspired touch.

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Want More Coffee Cake & Dessert Ideas?

If you love this Easy Cake Mix Coffee Cake, you might also enjoy these other delicious recipes:

• Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe for a soft, spiced loaf that’s perfect with coffee.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake for a fruity twist on layered dessert.
• Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge for a quick chocolate fix.
• Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake if you’re craving tropical flavors.
• Brownie Mix Cookies Recipe for rich, chewy bites from a boxed mix.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time: Follow me on Pinterest for more daily recipes!

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swirl in the cream cheese or go heavy on the crumble? Did you try a glaze?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

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