Coffee Cake Donuts
Coffee Cake Donuts are the perfect combination of sweet, soft, and crumbly. With a delightful cinnamon topping, they elevate any breakfast or snack time. These donuts are not only easy to make but also pair beautifully with your favorite coffee. Whether for a special occasion or just a cozy morning at home, Coffee Cake Donuts bring comfort and joy to every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The perfect blend of cinnamon and sugar creates a deliciously sweet treat that everyone will love.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be whipped up in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile Enjoyment: Great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these donuts suit any occasion.
- Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of baking from scratch, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.
- Perfect Pairing: These donuts complement coffee perfectly, enhancing your morning routine or afternoon break.

Tools and Preparation
To make your Coffee Cake Donuts efficiently, gather the essential tools and equipment. Proper preparation is key to achieving that perfect donut texture.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Donut pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Piping bag (optional)
- Non-stick baking spray
Importance of Each Tool
- Donut pan: Ensures your donuts have the perfect shape and rise while baking.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients without mess.
- Piping bag: Makes filling the donut pan easier and cleaner (optional but helpful).
Ingredients
Coffee Cake Donuts are sweet, soft treats with a crumbly cinnamon topping. They pair perfectly with coffee, making breakfast or snack time extra special.
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 delicious Coffee Cake Donuts that will impress your family and friends.
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 the cold cubes of butter and 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 including all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients such as sour cream, melted butter, and egg until well combined. Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry mixture carefully to avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Fill the Donut Pan
Spoon or use a piping bag to fill each mold of your prepared donut pan with batter. Ensure each donut is filled evenly. Sprinkle the chilled crumb topping generously on top of each filled mold.
Step 5: Bake Your Donuts
Bake in your preheated oven for about 10-11 minutes or until each donut springs back when lightly pressed. Allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before gently removing them. Transfer donuts to a wire rack to cool for a few more minutes before serving.
Enjoy these delightful Coffee Cake Donuts fresh out of the oven!
How to Serve Coffee Cake Donuts
Coffee Cake Donuts are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, these donuts add a special touch to any occasion.
With Fresh Brewed Coffee
- Pair your Coffee Cake Donuts with a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee for the ultimate morning experience. The flavors complement each other beautifully.
As a Dessert
- Serve these donuts as a sweet end to your meal. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top can elevate their look and taste.
With Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on the side for a creamy contrast. This is perfect for those who love a bit of indulgence.
Topped with Fruit
- Fresh berries or sliced bananas make great toppings. They add freshness and balance the sweetness of the donuts.
On a Brunch Platter
- Include Coffee Cake Donuts in a brunch spread alongside other treats like muffins and pastries. They are sure to be a hit among guests.
How to Perfect Coffee Cake Donuts
To ensure your Coffee Cake Donuts turn out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips.
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
- Do not overmix: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to keep your donuts light and fluffy.
- Chill the crumb topping: Keeping it cold will help it maintain its shape during baking, creating that perfect crunchy texture.
- Check for doneness: Use the spring-back test; if they spring back when lightly pressed, they are ready to come out of the oven.
- Let them cool before serving: This helps set their structure and enhances flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Coffee Cake Donuts
Coffee Cake Donuts can be complemented with various side dishes, enhancing your dining experience. Here are some great options:
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds color and healthiness to your meal.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a creamy and crunchy side.
- Scrambled Eggs: Savory scrambled eggs provide protein balance alongside sweet donuts.
- Granola Bars: Homemade or store-bought granola bars offer additional textures and flavors.
- Milkshake: A classic milkshake pairs deliciously with sweet donuts for an indulgent treat.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This nutritious option adds a healthy twist while being deliciously satisfying.
- Mini Muffins: Offering assorted mini muffins creates variety on your breakfast table.
- Bacon Strips: The salty crunch of bacon contrasts nicely with the sweetness of Coffee Cake Donuts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Coffee Cake Donuts can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and sour cream can lead to uneven mixing. Always bring them to room temperature before starting.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make the donuts tough. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Skipping the crumb topping: This adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip it; it’s essential for that coffee cake experience.
- Not properly greasing the pan: A sticky donut can ruin your day! Ensure your donut pan is well-greased to avoid any sticking issues.
- Ignoring baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your donuts. They should spring back when pressed lightly; don’t rely solely on time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- If you plan to eat them within a few days, refrigeration is fine.
Freezing Coffee Cake Donuts
- Wrap each donut in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Coffee Cake Donuts
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place donuts on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one donut at a time for about 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat as they may become tough.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people have about making Coffee Cake Donuts.
How do I make Coffee Cake Donuts healthier?
You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added nutrition.
Can I use different toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with nuts or chocolate chips as alternatives to the crumb topping.
What should I serve with Coffee Cake Donuts?
They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, making them perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.
What is the best way to store leftover Coffee Cake Donuts?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
Coffee Cake Donuts are a delightful treat that combines sweetness with a comforting crumb topping. They are perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Don’t hesitate to customize your donuts with different toppings or glazes. Try making them today!
Coffee Cake Donuts
Indulge in the comforting warmth of Coffee Cake Donuts, where sweet and soft textures meet a delightful crumbly topping. These easy-to-make donuts are perfect for breakfast or as a cozy snack, pairing beautifully with your favorite cup of coffee. With a rich blend of cinnamon and sugar, each bite brings joy and satisfaction, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a quiet morning at home, these Coffee Cake Donuts will elevate your experience with their irresistible flavor and homemade goodness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 6 donuts 1x
- Category: 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 melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- For the crumb topping: 1/4 cup butter, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 3 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with non-stick spray.
- In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar, flour, and cinnamon for the crumb topping. Cut in cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Chill in the freezer.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine sour cream, melted butter, and egg.
- Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined. Fill each mold in the donut pan evenly with batter.
- Sprinkle the chilled crumb topping generously over each filled mold.
- Bake for 10-11 minutes or until donuts spring back when touched. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg