Coffee Cake Donuts are delightful, sweet treats that bring a unique twist to your breakfast or snack time. With their soft, fluffy texture and a crumbly cinnamon topping, these donuts are perfect for pairing with coffee. Ideal for any occasion, they are easy to make and packed with flavor, making them a standout choice for both dessert lovers and anyone looking to enjoy a sweet treat.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Crumb Topping:
- For the Donuts:
- How to Make Coffee Cake Donuts
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Crumb Topping
- Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
- Step 5: Combine Mixtures
- Step 6: Fill the Pan
- Step 7: Bake
- How to Serve Coffee Cake Donuts
- With Fresh Fruit
- With Whipped Cream
- With Coffee
- With Milk
- How to Perfect Coffee Cake Donuts
- Best Side Dishes for Coffee Cake Donuts
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Coffee Cake Donuts
- Reheating Coffee Cake Donuts
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I make my Coffee Cake Donuts healthier?
- Can I add nuts to my Coffee Cake Donuts?
- What is the best way to serve Coffee Cake Donuts?
- Can I make these Coffee Cake Donuts gluten-free?
- How do I know when my Coffee Cake Donuts are done baking?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious donuts in no time.
- Flavorful Combination: The sweet cinnamon crumb topping perfectly complements the soft donuts, creating an irresistible flavor profile.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert; these donuts fit any occasion beautifully.
- Baked Not Fried: Enjoy a lighter version of a classic donut without the extra calories from frying.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun baking project that kids will love; they can help mix and decorate!
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes baking more enjoyable and efficient. Gather what you need before starting your Coffee Cake Donuts.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick baking spray
- 6-mold donut pan
- Mixing bowls (large and small)
- Whisk
- Piping bag or spoon
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick baking spray: Ensures your donuts come out easily without sticking to the pan.
- Donut pan: Provides the perfect shape for your Coffee Cake Donuts, giving them that classic look.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for effectively combining dry and wet ingredients without mess.
- Wire rack: Allows your donuts to cool evenly, preventing sogginess.

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 granulated sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
* Add the 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: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
* Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl:
* Whisk together the sour cream, egg, melted butter, and light brown sugar until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry mixture:
* Take care not to overmix; combine until just blended.
Step 6: Fill the Pan
Spoon or use a piping bag to fill each mold in the prepared donut pan with batter.
Sprinkle the chilled crumb topping evenly on top of each donut.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the oven for about 10-11 minutes or until the donuts spring back when lightly pressed. Once done, let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before gently removing them. Transfer to a wire rack to cool further for a few more minutes.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Coffee Cake Donuts!
How to Serve Coffee Cake Donuts
Coffee Cake Donuts are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast or a snack, these donuts can be paired with different accompaniments to enhance their flavor.
With Fresh Fruit
- Berries: Pair your donuts with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
- Banana Slices: The sweetness of bananas complements the cinnamon flavor perfectly.
With Whipped Cream
- Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a creamy texture that balances the soft donuts.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Try vanilla or cinnamon-infused whipped cream for an extra kick.
With Coffee
- Brewed Coffee: Serve your donuts alongside a hot cup of coffee to enhance the overall experience.
- Iced Coffee: For a refreshing twist, pair your donuts with iced coffee on warm days.
With Milk
- Cold Milk: A classic pairing, cold milk helps to wash down the sweetness of the donuts.
- Almond or Oat Milk: For a dairy-free option, these plant-based milks provide a great alternative.
How to Perfect Coffee Cake Donuts
To achieve the best results with your Coffee Cake Donuts, consider these essential tips for perfecting your baking technique.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that eggs and sour cream are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to maintain the fluffy texture of the donuts.
- Chill the Topping: Chilling the crumb topping before baking ensures it stays crumbly and doesn’t melt into the batter.
- Check for Doneness: Bake until golden brown and springy; this prevents undercooked or overly dry donuts.
Best Side Dishes for Coffee Cake Donuts
Coffee Cake Donuts make an excellent addition to any meal. Here are some side dishes that pair well with them:
- Greek Yogurt: A creamy side that adds protein and pairs nicely with sweet flavors.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit adds color and freshness, balancing out the sweetness of the donuts.
- Granola Parfait: Layer yogurt and granola with fruits for a crunchy and creamy contrast.
- Cinnamon Applesauce: The warm spices in applesauce echo those in the donuts, creating harmony in flavors.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory counterbalance to sweet donuts.
- Nut Mix: Roasted nuts add crunch and healthy fats, complementing the softness of the donuts.
- Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl topped with seeds and fruits offers a nutritious touch alongside your treats.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Coffee Cake Donuts, even small missteps can lead to disappointing results. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:
- Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or sour cream can affect the batter’s consistency. Always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense donuts. Mix just until combined to keep them light and fluffy.
- Skipping the crumb topping chilling: If you don’t chill the crumb topping, it may not form a nice crunch. Always freeze it while preparing the batter.
- Not greasing the pan properly: A sticky donut pan will ruin your perfect donuts. Use non-stick baking spray generously to ensure easy release.
- Ignoring baking time: Baking for too long can dry out your donuts. Start checking for doneness a minute or two early.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Coffee Cake Donuts in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Coffee Cake Donuts
- Place cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet before freezing.
- After they are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Coffee Cake Donuts
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place donuts on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individually in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, placing the donuts in until warmed through, flipping occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Coffee Cake Donuts:
How can I make my Coffee Cake Donuts healthier?
You can substitute some of the flour with whole wheat flour or use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for added protein.
Can I add nuts to my Coffee Cake Donuts?
Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans can be mixed into the batter or sprinkled on top of the crumb for extra texture and flavor.
What is the best way to serve Coffee Cake Donuts?
These donuts are best served fresh with coffee or tea. You can also drizzle them with icing for extra sweetness.
Can I make these Coffee Cake Donuts gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.
How do I know when my Coffee Cake Donuts are done baking?
The donuts should spring back when lightly pressed, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Final Thoughts
Coffee Cake Donuts are delightful treats perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Their soft texture and crumbly topping make them irresistible. Plus, you can easily customize these donuts by adding spices, fruits, or nuts according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
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Coffee Cake Donuts
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately six donuts 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Coffee Cake Donuts, where the soft, fluffy texture meets a rich crumb topping. These baked treats are perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack, providing a delicious twist to your usual donut routine. With their buttery cinnamon flavor, these donuts are sure to elevate your morning coffee experience. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, they make for a fun baking project that everyone can partake in.
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 cup granulated sugar (for crumb topping)
- 3 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for crumb topping)
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (for crumb topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a six-mold donut pan with non-stick spray.
- In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar, flour, and cinnamon for the crumb topping. Add cold butter and mix until crumbly; chill in the freezer.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine sour cream, egg, melted butter, and light brown sugar until smooth.
- Gently fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined.
- Fill the donut pan with batter and sprinkle chilled crumb topping on each donut.
- Bake for 10-11 minutes or until donuts spring back when pressed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg





