Coffee Cake Donuts
Coffee Cake Donuts are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of cake with the fun of donuts. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, these soft donuts topped with a crumbly cinnamon mixture are sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just treating yourself, Coffee Cake Donuts bring warmth and comfort to any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These donuts are simple to make and require minimal ingredients, making them perfect for any skill level.
- Flavorful Topping: The crumb topping adds a delicious texture and flavor that elevates the whole donut experience.
- Versatile Enjoyment: Great for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert, these donuts fit any time of day.
- Perfectly Paired: They go exceptionally well with coffee, providing a delightful start to your morning.
- Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite spices or toppings for a personal twist.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Coffee Cake Donuts, you’ll need a few essential tools. Proper equipment will ensure your baking process is smooth and successful.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 6-mold donut pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Piping bag or spoon
- Non-stick baking spray
Importance of Each Tool
- Donut Pan: A 6-mold donut pan shapes the donuts perfectly, giving them that classic ring shape.
- Mixing Bowls: Having separate bowls for wet and dry ingredients helps in achieving the right texture without overmixing.
- Whisk: A whisk ensures that your ingredients blend evenly, which is key to fluffy donuts.
- Piping Bag or Spoon: These tools help in filling the donut pan accurately for consistent sizes.

Ingredients
To make these delightful Coffee Cake Donuts, gather the following 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
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Coffee Cake Donuts at home.
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 use.
Step 2: Prepare the Crumb Topping
In a small bowl:
* Mix together sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
* Add the cubes of butter and work them into the mixture swiftly until it resembles a coarse meal.
* Place this 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: all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl:
* Whisk together the wet ingredients: egg, sour cream, and melted butter.
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 in the prepared donut pan with batter. Ensure each mold is filled evenly. Sprinkle the chilled crumb topping generously on top of each donut.
Step 5: Bake the Donuts
Bake in your preheated oven for about 10-11 minutes or until they spring back when lightly pressed. Allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before gently removing them and transferring them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your freshly baked Coffee Cake Donuts!
How to Serve Coffee Cake Donuts
Coffee Cake Donuts are delightful on their own, but they can be even more enjoyable with a few simple serving suggestions. Pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your breakfast or snack experience.
With Fresh Fruit
- Berries – Serve alongside strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
- Banana Slices – Add sliced bananas for a sweet and creamy complement.
With Whipped Cream
- Light and Fluffy Topping – A dollop of whipped cream adds a decadent touch that pairs well with the cinnamon flavor.
With Coffee
- Classic Brew – Enjoy your donuts with a hot cup of coffee for the ultimate breakfast combo.
- Flavored Lattes – Try pairing with a vanilla or caramel latte for added sweetness.
With Icing
- Simple Glaze – Drizzle a light icing over the donuts to enhance their sweetness and appearance.
How to Perfect Coffee Cake Donuts
Making perfect Coffee Cake Donuts is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your donuts turn out delicious every time.
- Use Cold Butter – Cold butter helps create that crumbly topping texture. Make sure it’s chilled before mixing.
- Don’t Overmix – Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together to keep the donuts light and fluffy.
- Check for Doneness – Use the spring-back test; if they spring back when pressed lightly, they’re ready.
- Cool Before Serving – Let the donuts cool in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack to maintain their shape.
Best Side Dishes for Coffee Cake Donuts
Pairing side dishes with Coffee Cake Donuts can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement their flavor perfectly.
- Greek Yogurt – A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein, balancing the sweetness of the donuts.
- Cottage Cheese – This high-protein option gives a savory contrast that works wonderfully with sweet flavors.
- Granola – Sprinkle granola on top or serve it on the side for an added crunch and texture.
- Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits offers freshness and natural sweetness, making it a colorful addition.
- Nut Butter – Serve with almond or peanut butter for a rich, nutty flavor that complements cinnamon well.
- Smoothie Bowl – A smoothie bowl made with bananas, berries, and spinach provides a nutritious side full of vitamins.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Coffee Cake Donuts, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the Chilling Step: Not chilling the crumb topping can lead to a less crunchy texture. Always chill it while preparing the batter.
- Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can result in tough donuts. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can affect the rise and texture. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
- Ignoring Donut Pan Preparation: A poorly greased pan can cause sticking. Use non-stick spray generously on your donut pan.
- Underbaking or Overbaking: Baking too short or too long affects doneness. Always check for a springy texture when gently pressed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Coffee Cake Donuts in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Coffee Cake Donuts
- Wrap each donut tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Coffee Cake Donuts
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat donuts for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one donut at a time on high for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
- Stovetop: Place donuts in a skillet over low heat, cover, and heat for about 3-5 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about Coffee Cake Donuts, here are some frequently asked questions.
What are Coffee Cake Donuts?
Coffee Cake Donuts are sweet, soft treats topped with a crumbly cinnamon mixture that pairs perfectly with coffee.
Can I make these donuts without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana as an egg replacer.
How do I customize my Coffee Cake Donuts?
Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or fruit into the batter for added flavor!
Are Coffee Cake Donuts suitable for breakfast?
Absolutely! They are perfect as a sweet breakfast option or an afternoon snack alongside coffee.
Final Thoughts
Coffee Cake Donuts are not only delightful but also versatile. You can customize them with various toppings or mix-ins. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these tasty treats at any time of day!
Coffee Cake Donuts
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Coffee Cake Donuts, a delightful fusion of soft cake and classic donut textures. These baked treats are topped with a crunchy cinnamon crumb topping that adds both sweetness and texture. Perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, they offer a cozy start to your day or a sweet pick-me-up. Quick and easy to prepare, these donuts will impress family and friends alike, making any occasion feel special. Customize them with your favorite spices or toppings for a unique twist. Treat yourself to a warm batch of Coffee Cake Donuts today!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 6 donuts 1x
- Category: Breakfast/Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 2 1/2 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 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)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 6-mold donut pan with non-stick baking spray.
- In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar, flour, and cinnamon for the crumb topping. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, then chill.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix the egg, sour cream, and melted butter until well combined.
- Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients gently until just combined.
- Fill each mold with batter using a piping bag or spoon and sprinkle with chilled crumb topping.
- Bake for 10-11 minutes until donuts spring back when pressed lightly; cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
