Coffee Cake Donuts
Coffee Cake Donuts are delightful sweet treats, featuring a soft texture and topped with a crumbly cinnamon layer. These donuts are perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, making any occasion feel special. Their unique blend of flavors and ease of preparation makes them a must-try for both novice and experienced bakers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these donuts can be whipped up in no time.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and brown sugar creates a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these donuts fit into various meal occasions.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different toppings or mix-ins to make your Coffee Cake Donuts unique.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love helping in the kitchen, making this recipe a fun family activity.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Coffee Cake Donuts, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure your baking goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Donut pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Piping bag (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Donut pan: Creates the perfect shape for your donuts, ensuring they bake evenly.
- Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients without mess. Having multiple sizes helps when separating wet and dry ingredients.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing ingredients thoroughly, especially when incorporating air into the batter.

Ingredients
For the Crumb Topping:
- 1/4 cup butter (cold and cut into pieces)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Donuts:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg (at room temperature)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 2 1/2 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
How to Make Coffee Cake Donuts
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, take a 6-mold donut pan and coat it with non-stick baking spray. Set the pan aside for later.
Step 2: Prepare the Crumb Topping
In a small bowl:
* Mix together the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and cinnamon.
* Add in the cold butter cubes.
* Work them into the mixture swiftly until it resembles a coarse meal.
Place the crumb topping in the freezer to chill while you prepare the donut batter.
Step 3: Make the Donut Batter
In a large bowl:
* Whisk together the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt).
In another bowl:
* Whisk together the wet ingredients (egg, sour cream, melted butter, brown sugar).
Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry mixture until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Fill the Donut Pan
Spoon or use a piping bag to fill each mold of the prepared donut pan with batter. Sprinkle a generous amount of crumb topping evenly on top of each donut.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for about 10-11 minutes or until the donuts spring back when lightly pressed. Allow them to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before gently removing them. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your homemade Coffee Cake Donuts!
How to Serve Coffee Cake Donuts
Coffee Cake Donuts are a delightful treat that can elevate any meal or snack time. Here are some creative ways to serve them for an extra special touch.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve the donuts alongside fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the donuts perfectly.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- Add a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce over the donuts for a rich and indulgent twist. This makes them even more tempting!
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Lightly dollop whipped cream on top of each donut for a creamy contrast. This adds a luxurious feel to your coffee cake experience.
Enjoyed with Flavored Coffee
- Pair these donuts with flavored coffee, such as vanilla or hazelnut, to enhance their sweet profile. It’s a perfect match for breakfast or brunch.
Served Warm
- For the best experience, serve the donuts warm. Reheat them slightly in the oven before serving for that just-baked taste.
How to Perfect Coffee Cake Donuts
Making perfect Coffee Cake Donuts requires some attention to detail. Here are essential tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.
- Use fresh ingredients: Always check that your baking powder and other ingredients are fresh for optimal rise and flavor.
- Measure accurately: Use kitchen scales or measuring cups precisely to get the right ingredient ratios and achieve perfect texture.
- Don’t overmix: Gently fold wet ingredients into dry ones. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts instead of light and fluffy ones.
- Cool properly: Allow the donuts to cool slightly in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents sogginess and helps maintain their shape.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or vanilla extract for added depth in flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Coffee Cake Donuts
Serving side dishes with Coffee Cake Donuts can create a well-rounded meal or snack. Here are some great options:
-
Fresh Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the donuts. -
Yogurt Parfait
Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy, crunchy complement that contrasts nicely with soft donuts. -
Scrambled Eggs
Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and make your breakfast more filling when served alongside. -
Oatmeal
A warm bowl of oatmeal enhances nutrition while offering a heartier option next to your sweet treats. -
Nut Butter Toast
Whole-grain toast spread with almond or peanut butter offers richness that pairs well with sweet flavors. -
Smoothie Bowl
A colorful smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds can be both refreshing and nutritious beside your Coffee Cake Donuts. -
Cheese Platter
Include mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese for a savory contrast that enhances the overall tasting experience. -
Chia Pudding
A creamy chia pudding serves as a light yet satisfying option, balancing out the sweetness of your donuts wonderfully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Coffee Cake Donuts, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:
- Using cold ingredients – Cold ingredients can affect the batter’s texture. Always use room temperature eggs and sour cream for better mixing and rise.
- Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can lead to dense donuts. Gently fold the wet and dry mixtures until just combined for a lighter texture.
- Skipping the crumb topping – The crumb topping adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip it; ensure you prepare it ahead of time for optimal crunch.
- Not preheating the oven – Baking in an unheated oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat to 350 degrees Fahrenheit before baking your donuts.
- Ignoring cooling time – Removing donuts too soon can cause them to break apart. Allow them to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep at room temperature if consuming within two days.
Freezing Coffee Cake Donuts
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
- They can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating Coffee Cake Donuts
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm donuts for about 5-7 minutes for best results.
- Microwave – Heat each donut for about 10-15 seconds, but avoid overheating as they can dry out.
- Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through, which keeps them soft.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Coffee Cake Donuts that may help you with your baking experience.
What are Coffee Cake Donuts?
Coffee Cake Donuts are sweet, soft baked treats topped with a crumbly cinnamon mixture, making them perfect companions for coffee.
Can I make Coffee Cake Donuts gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. This will help maintain the texture of the donuts.
How do I customize my Coffee Cake Donuts?
Feel free to add different spices like nutmeg or include nuts into the crumb topping for added flavor and crunch.
How long do Coffee Cake Donuts last?
When stored properly, these donuts can last up to three days in the refrigerator or two months in the freezer.
Can I bake these donuts without a donut pan?
Yes! You can use a muffin tin as an alternative. Just adjust baking time as needed, usually by adding a few minutes.
Final Thoughts
Coffee Cake Donuts are not only delightful but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different spices or toppings according to your taste. Try this recipe today and enjoy these delicious treats any time of day!

Coffee Cake Donuts
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 6 servings 1x
Description
Coffee Cake Donuts are the perfect blend of fluffy texture and sweet flavor, topped with a delightful crumbly cinnamon layer. These baked treats are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a satisfying afternoon snack. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, both novice and seasoned bakers can whip up this delicious recipe in no time. Enjoy them warm alongside your favorite beverage or get creative with toppings like fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Indulge in these scrumptious donuts that transform any occasion into something special.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 2 1/2 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crumb topping)
- 3 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for crumb topping)
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (for crumb topping)
- 1/4 cup butter (cold, for crumb topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a donut pan with non-stick spray.
- For the crumb topping, mix granulated sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Chill in the freezer.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt for the donuts. In another bowl, combine egg, sour cream, melted butter, and brown sugar.
- Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Fill each donut mold with batter and top generously with crumb mixture.
- Bake for 10-11 minutes or until donuts spring back when pressed. Cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or add nuts to the crumb topping for extra flavor. Serve warm for the best experience, or enjoy with fresh fruits or yogurt.