Description
This Easy Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake combines the flavors of a classic cinnamon roll with a moist, tender coffee cake, making it the perfect treat for breakfast or dessert. With swirls of cinnamon-sugar and an optional nutty crunch, this cake is simple to prepare using common pantry ingredients and bakes to a golden perfection. A sweet glaze finishes it off, creating your new favorite indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Batter
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Topping & Glaze
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly to ensure the cake does not stick.
- Mix the batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, instant vanilla pudding mix, vegetable oil, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the batter is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Prepare the cinnamon sugar: In a separate small bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until the mixture is uniform and slightly fluid.
- Layer the cake and swirl: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Drizzle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over this layer. Next, pour the remaining cake batter evenly on top, followed by the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Create the swirl effect: Using a knife, gently swirl the cinnamon sugar mixture into the batter to create a marbled effect without overmixing.
- Add nuts: Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the top if using, adding a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
- Bake the cake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
- Cool slightly: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for several minutes in the pan to set and ease glazing.
- Prepare and drizzle glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk until smooth and pourable. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake evenly before serving.
Notes
- For extra richness, substitute the vegetable oil in the batter with melted butter.
- Add cream cheese swirls to the batter before baking for a decadent twist.
- Use chopped walnuts or almonds instead of pecans according to preference or dietary requirements.
- This cake is best served slightly warm to enjoy its soft texture and flavorful glaze.
