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Experience the ultimate in coffee cake perfection with this Cake Mix Coffee Cake with Sour Cream recipe! This irresistible treat combines a rich, tender texture with a tangy hint of sour cream and buttery layers of cinnamon streusel to deliver exceptional flavor in every bite. And best of all, it all begins with a simple box of cake mix. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a quiet moment, this easy recipe will become your go-to.

Overhead photo of nine slices of coffee cake made with cake mix and sour cream on a wood serving board.

About this coffee cake made with cake mix

If you’re looking for a sour cream coffee cake recipe that’s incredibly delicious, but also remarkably easy to prepare, you’ve come to the right place! This dessert recipe uses a box of cake mix as the base to simplify the process – allowing you to enjoy a delightfully delicious homemade treat with a lot less fuss.

Beautifully moist and tender, this coffee cake is made with sour cream which not only enhances the cake’s richness, but also contributes to a wonderfully soft and airy texture. Beyond that, there’s the generous, lavish crumb topping layered both in the middle and on top of the coffee cake. This ensures that each bite reveals delightfully flavorful layers of moist coffee cake and decadent, buttery streusel with a perfect blend of sweet brown sugar and warming cinnamon.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, preparing a quick breakfast, or just craving a sweet treat, this versatile and simple box cake mix coffee cake with sour cream is the perfect recipe. Easy to prepare and flavor-packed with sweet, rich, crumbly goodness, I promise you’re just going to love it!

Why you’ll love this recipe

  • Easy and Straightforward Preparation. This recipe uses a cake mix as a base to simplify the baking process. This makes the coffee cake easier to prepare with less pantry ingredients and without a stand mixer or electric mixer – allowing you to create a delicious coffee cake thats doesn’t compromise on delicious flavor or texture.
  • Moist and Tender Texture. The addition of sour cream ensures a moist and tender crumb, setting this coffee cake apart from others. The result is a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s otherwise hard to achieve.
  • Generous Crumb Topping. This sour cream coffee cake features a lavish crumb topping with a blend of buttery, sugary, and cinnamon-y goodness, offering an indulgent treat that’s perfect for those who love cinnamon sugar.
  • Versatile Delight. Ideal for any occasion, from casual breakfasts to special brunch gatherings, this cake mix coffee cake is versatile. Plus it’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite add-ins, such as berries, chocolate chips, or nuts.
  • Impressive Yet Simple. Despite its delectable taste, this coffee cake is simple and straightforward to make. It combines homemade, gourmet flavor with dessert box simplicity, making it an easy and enjoyable recipe for both beginning bakers and seasoned bakers alike.
Overheat photo of a box of cake mix, sour cream, eggs, butter, vanilla, salt, sugar, and walnuts organized into individual bowls on a kitchen counter.

Ingredients for cake mix coffee cake

  • Cake Mix. I recommend using a box of yellow cake mix for that classic rich coffee cake flavor. But you can play around with different flavors. A box of spiced cake mix will give you richer, warmer flavors; while a box of white cake mix will give you a lighter flavored coffee cake.
  • Cinnamon. For that classic cozy and inviting flavor.
  • Nutmeg. If possible, purchase whole nutmeg and grate it fresh for the most potent flavor.
  • Kosher Salt.  Even sweet things need a touch of salt!
  • Eggs.  I use large eggs. If you’re using liquid eggs, you’ll need about ¼ cup per egg.
  • Sour Cream. Be sure to use full-fat sour cream for the tenderest crumb.
  • Vanilla Extract. You’ll need two teaspoons of pure vanilla extract – none of that artificial stuff.

If boxes of cake mix are on sale, grab extra and put them to good use here: Cake Mix Apple Cake, Cookie Bars from Cake Mix, Lemon Cake Mix Cookies, and Pumpkin Cake Mix Cake.

Cinnamon Streusel

While entirely optional, if you’re looking for the all-time best coffee cake, you’ll want to include this simple, yet exceptionally delicious cinnamon streusel which doubles as a filling and crumble topping.

  • All Purpose Flour. Regular white flour is all you need to make the cinnamon topping.
  • Light Brown Sugar. Make sure you pack the sugar when measuring. You can use dark brown sugar if that’s all you have.
  • Walnuts or Pecans. I personally prefer chopped walnuts, but chopped pecans work too. Just make sure the nuts are toasted for the most flavor.
  • Unsalted Butter. You’ll need to melt and cool the butter to room temperature before making the streusel.

Recipe variations

  • Generously Glazed. For an extra indulgent treat, be sure to generously drizzle a vanilla glaze all over the coffee cake while it’s still slightly warm – that way it soaks up all those sticky, yummy flavors. I’ve included a recipe for a simple maple glaze for you in the printable recipe card below.
  • Berry Bliss: Gently fold fresh or thawed frozen berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries) into the batter before baking for a fruity twist.
  • Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts, like walnuts, pecans, or almonds, to the streusel topping for added crunch and nutty flavor.
  • Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake: Stir in chocolate chips into the cake batter or sprinkle them on top of the streusel before baking the coffee cake for a sweet touch.
  • Spiced Apple: Fold in diced apples or apple pie filling into the cake batter. And then top with a generous amount of ground cinnamon for a cozy apple coffee cake.
  • Salted Caramel: Add caramel baking chips to the coffee cake batter before baking. Then top the cooled coffee cake with salted caramel sauce for a rich delight.
Overhead photo of a raw sour cream coffee cake made with cake mix and topped with cinnamon streusel crumbs.

Expert tips for the best coffee cake using cake mix

  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients. Ensure that your sour cream and eggs are at room temperature and the eggs are well whisked. This helps them blend more easily into the cake batter, resulting in a smoother texture.
  • Don’t Over-mix the Batter. Just mix the batter until it is *just* combined to avoid a dense cake. Over-mixing will develop the gluten in the cake, making the texture tougher.
  • Proper Measuring. Measure your flour and other dry ingredients accurately using the spoon-and-level method or a kitchen scale. Too much flour will lead to a dry cake.
  • Grease Your Baking Pan. Ensure your baking pan is well-greased to prevent the sour cream coffee cake from sticking. For extra assurance you can line the pan with parchment paper.
  • Check Doneness Early. Be sure to start checking the coffee cake for doneness at the 45 minute mark – at the latest. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake mix coffee cake — if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is done.
  • Cool Properly. Allow the crumb coffee cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Add a Glaze in Two Batches. A glaze made from a mixture of powdered sugar, milk, and maple syrup glaze complements this box mix coffee cake beautifully and adds a delightfully sweet finishing touch. When glazing, drizzle half of the glaze (or use an icing) over the coffee cake while it’s slightly warm. Then, drizzle the cake with the remaining glaze once it’s fully cool.
Close-up photo showcasing the crumb topping and vanilla glaze on a coffee cake.

FAQs: frequently asked questions

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix? 

Absolutely! While a vanilla cake mix or yellow cake mix is traditional, you can experiment with other flavors like chocolate, pumpkin, or spice cake mix to create different variations of coffee cake. I especially love experimenting with different flavors around the holidays to match the flavor of coffee cake to the theme of the party.

How can I make my coffee cake more moist? 

This recipe uses sour cream in the coffee cake batter, which helps keep the cake moist. Beyond that, just be sure you don’t over-bake the cake mix coffee cake, as this can dry it out.

What can I use instead of sour cream? 

If you don’t have sour cream, the best substitute is plain, full-fat Greek yogurt. However, buttermilk or even crème fraîche will provide similar moisture and tanginess; although the results may differ slightly.

How can I prevent my crumb topping from becoming too dry or falling off? 

Oh-no! We only want the crumb topping to fall directly in to your mouth – not on the floor. So be sure your butter is properly melted and that the streusel ingredients are well combined. Also, make sure you press the crumb topping gently into the coffee cake batter before baking to help it adhere better.

Can I make the coffee cake ahead of time? 

But, of course! You can bake this recipe for cake mix coffee cake a day or two in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Alternatively, for longer storage, you can wrap it tightly and freeze it for up to 3 months. (Scroll down to read all about storing leftovers.)

Close-up photo of the inside of a slice of cake mix coffee cake with sour cream and crumb topping.

Serving sour cream coffee cake

Common serving suggestions

  • Drizzled with Glaze: Add a drizzle of lemon or vanilla glaze over the cake for an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal.
  • With a Hot Beverage: Enjoy a slice of sour cream coffee cake alongside a steaming cup of coffee, hot tea, a cozy hot cocoa, or a rich white hot cocoa for a delightful morning or afternoon treat.
  • Breakfast Delight: Serve the cake mix sour cream coffee cake as a comforting breakfast option with a delicious smear. I personally love blueberry butter, but your favorite flavor of jam or preserves is delicious too.
  • Brunch Spread: Include the coffee cake as part of a brunch spread, complementing other breakfast items like macerated fruits, cured salmon with whipped cream cheese and new york bagels; egg breakfast muffins, or avocado scrambled eggs on toast.

Unique serving ideas

  • With Fresh Berries: Top each slice of coffee cake made with cake mix with a handful of fresh sliced or whole berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a pop of color.
  • Dressed Up Dessert: Serve the cake warm and top it with a scoop of ice cream, before drizzling it with microwave chocolate sauce for an easy and delicious dessert.
  • In Parfait Form: Crumbled the sour cream cake mix coffee cake into a glass and layer with whipped Greek yogurt, your favorite flavor of fruit puree or sauce, and honey to create a delicious and indulgent parfait.
  • Cocktail Hour: Create happy hour at home by pairing this yellow cake coffee cake with an indulgent cocktail like my Sugar Cookie Martini or Chocolate Martini with Baileys.

Storing leftovers

Storage Instructions

  • Room Temperature: Store leftover coffee cake made with cake mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
  • Refrigeration: If you’re looking to extend the freshness, store the sour cream coffee cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. I recommend removing the coffee crumb cake from the fridge and letting it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezing Instructions

  • Wrap and Bag: To freeze the coffee cake, first ensure it’s completely cooled to room temperature. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Next, place the wrapped cake into a resealable freezer-safe bag. And be sure to label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
  • Storage Tip: I recommend cutting the cake into individual servings before wrapping and storing.
  • Freeze It: Store the wrapped coffee cake in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  • Thawing: To thaw, remove the cake from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for several hours or overnight.
Close-up photo of the cinnamon filling and crumb topping on sour cream coffee cake made from a box of cake mix.

There’s nothing quite like a slice of warm, cinnamon-scented, crumb-topped cake to brighten your day. And this cake mix coffee cake with sour cream delivers on all fronts with its irresistible texture and delightful flavor. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends and family, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to become a favorite. Until next time, friends, cheers! To baking up slices of pure happiness!

Cheyanne

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More coffee cake recipes!

Overhead photo of cake mix coffee cake cut into nine squares on a wood serving board.

Cake Mix Coffee Cake with Sour Cream

Total Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 16 servings
Experience the ultimate in coffee cake perfection with this Cake Mix Coffee Cake with Sour Cream recipe! This irresistible treat combines a rich, tender texture with a tangy hint of sour cream and buttery layers of cinnamon streusel to deliver exceptional flavor in every bite. And best of all, it all begins with a simple box of cake mix. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a quiet moment, this easy recipe will become your go-to.

Equipment

  • 1 9-inch Square Baking Pan (for baking the cake)
  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl (for making the coffee cake batter)
  • 1 Small mixing bowl (for the maple glaze)

Ingredients 

Cinnamon Streusel Filling and Topping

Cake Mix Coffee Cake

Maple Gaze

  • ½ cup Confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 tbs EACH: Whole Milk and Real Maple Syrup

Instructions

  • Preheat oven and Prepare Baking Pan: Arrange the oven rack to the middle position and then preheat the oven to 350-degrees Fahrenheit.
    Generously grease a 9-inch square baking pan with non-stick cooking spray and dust lightly with flour. Set the pan aside.
  • Make the Streusel Filling/Crumb Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the flour with the light brown sugar and toasted, chopped nuts. Add in 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and a heaping ¼ teaspoon kosher salt. Then, use a fork to mix the ingredients until they’re well combined.
    Next, pour the melted butter over the ingredients in the bowl and use your fork to mix until the ingredients are just combined and large crumbled form. Set the bowl aside.
  • Start the Coffee Cake – Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cake mix, remaining tablespoon of cinnamon, remaining ¾ teaspoon of nutmeg, and remaining 2 teaspoons of kosher salt.
    Use a whisk to stir the ingredients together until well combined. Then, make a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
  • Continue the Coffee Cake – Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, sour cream, and 1 ½ teaspoons of vanilla extract to the well in the bowl.
    Then use a rubber spatula and fold the ingredients together until the batter is *just* combined.
  • Layer the Coffee Cake and Cinnamon Streusel in Pan: Pour HALF of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish. Next, sprinkle HALF of the streusel crumbs evenly over the top of the cake batter.
    Then, repeat the process by pouring the remaining cake batter into the pan, and topping with the remaining streusel mixture.
  • Bake Sour Cream Coffee Cake in Preheated Oven: Transfer the coffee cake to the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.
  • Meanwhile, Make the Glaze: To a small bowl, add the powdered sugar, milk, real maple syrup, a generous pinch of salt, and the remaining ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Use a whisk and stir the ingredients together until well combined.
    Taste the glaze and adjust as needed, adding more milk for a thinner glaze, sugar for a thicker glaze, and maple or vanilla for flavor. Then, set the glaze aside.
  • Cool Coffee Cake: Transfer the pan of baked coffee cake to a wire rack and let the cake cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring to the wire rack to cool completely.
  • Ice the Coffee Cake While Warm: Drizzle HALF of the glaze all over the slightly warm coffee cake, reserving the remaining glaze for serving.
  • Slice and Serve Cake Mix Coffee Cake: Slice the crumb coffee cake into individual pieces and drizzle with some of the remaining glaze before sprinkling with cinnamon sugar. Enjoy!
    Overhead photo of cake mix coffee cake cut into nine squares on a wood serving board.

Notes

  • Need to Scale the Recipe? Hover your mouse over the number of servings in the recipe card. You’ll see a sliding scale pop up, you can use that to scale the recipe up or down as needed.
  • Got questions? I’ve got answers! If you ever run into an issue, have a question, or need any clarification – please feel free to drop them in the comments section. I’m happy to help when I can!
Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and the nutrition facts are an estimate based upon 16 servings. Exact information will depend upon the brands of ingredients and precise measurements used.

Nutrition

Calories: 257kcal    Carbohydrates: 25g    Protein: 5g    Fat: 16g    Saturated Fat: 6g    Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g    Monounsaturated Fat: 3g    Trans Fat: 0.2g    Cholesterol: 58mg    Sodium: 363mg    Potassium: 137mg    Fiber: 2g    Sugar: 13g    Vitamin A: 304IU    Vitamin C: 0.4mg    Calcium: 67mg    Iron: 1mg

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