Coffee Cake Donuts are the perfect blend of sweetness and texture, making them an ideal treat for breakfast or snack time. With a crumbly cinnamon topping and soft, flavorful donuts, they can brighten up any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a quiet morning at home, these delightful donuts elevate your coffee experience to new heights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll whip up these Coffee Cake Donuts in no time.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a warm, inviting flavor that complements coffee perfectly.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a breakfast option or a sweet snack throughout the day—ideal for any time you crave something special.
- Perfectly Baked: Baked instead of fried, these donuts are lighter but still full of taste and texture.
- Kid-Friendly: This recipe is fun for kids to help with, making it a great family activity in the kitchen.
Tools and Preparation
Before starting your baking adventure, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 6-mold donut pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Non-stick baking spray
- Piping bag (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Donut Pan: Ensures even baking and gives your donuts their classic shape.
- Mixing Bowls: Allows you to combine ingredients easily without mess.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success for perfect Coffee Cake Donuts.

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 your 6-mold donut pan and coat it with non-stick baking spray. Set it aside for later use.
Step 2: Prepare the Crumb Topping
In a small bowl:
* Mix together granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and cinnamon.
* Add the cold cubes of butter, working them into the mixture swiftly until it resembles coarse meal.
* Place this crumb topping in the freezer 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, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl:
* Whisk together the wet ingredients like sour cream, brown sugar, melted butter, and an egg.
Gently fold this wet mixture into your dry mixture, being careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Fill the Donut Pan
Spoon or use a piping bag to fill each mold of your prepared donut pan with batter. Sprinkle an even layer of crumb topping on each donut.
Step 5: Bake Your Donuts
Place your filled pan in the preheated oven. Bake 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 for a few more minutes before serving.
With these easy steps, you’ll have delicious Coffee Cake Donuts ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Coffee Cake Donuts
Coffee Cake Donuts are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your donut experience.
Pair with Fresh Fruit
- Serve sliced strawberries or bananas on the side for a refreshing contrast to the sweet donuts.
Drizzle with Icing
- A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk can add an extra layer of sweetness and sophistication.
Enjoy with Whipped Cream
- Top your donuts with a dollop of whipped cream for a light and creamy addition that enhances the flavor.
Accompany with Yogurt
- A scoop of yogurt, particularly vanilla or fruit-flavored, complements the sweetness of the donuts while adding creaminess.
Serve Alongside Coffee
- Pair your Coffee Cake Donuts with a freshly brewed cup of coffee to balance the sweetness and create a perfect breakfast combo.
Add Nuts or Sprinkles
- Sprinkle chopped nuts or colorful sprinkles on top for added texture and visual appeal.
How to Perfect Coffee Cake Donuts
To make sure your Coffee Cake Donuts turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons for precision to ensure your donuts have the right texture.
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Use Room Temperature Egg: Allow your egg to reach room temperature; this helps create a smoother batter that mixes well.
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Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients until just blended; overmixing can lead to dense donuts.
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Chill the Crumb Topping: Keeping the crumb topping cold before baking ensures it gets crispy on top while the donuts remain soft underneath.
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Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into a donut; if it comes out clean, they are ready. This prevents undercooked centers.
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Cool Before Serving: Allow donuts to cool on a wire rack before serving; this helps maintain their shape and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Coffee Cake Donuts
Pairing side dishes with your Coffee Cake Donuts can enhance your breakfast or snack time. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the donuts.
- Greek Yogurt: Creamy Greek yogurt is a protein-packed side that pairs well with sweet flavors.
- Cinnamon Sugar Apple Slices: Sliced apples dusted with cinnamon sugar bring a crunchy element that complements the soft donuts.
- Maple Oatmeal: A warm bowl of maple oatmeal provides heartiness and warmth alongside sweet treats.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy option adds texture and nutrition, making it an excellent contrast to sweet donuts.
- Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl topped with granola can serve as a refreshing complement to your baked goods.
- Nut Butter Toast: Whole-grain toast spread with almond or peanut butter offers protein and balances out sweetness nicely.
- Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea serves as a soothing beverage choice that pairs beautifully with baked goods.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Coffee Cake Donuts, some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Skipping the chilling step – If you don’t chill the crumb topping, it may not form the desired texture when baked. Make sure to place it in the freezer while preparing the batter.
- Overmixing the batter – Overmixing can lead to tough donuts instead of light and fluffy ones. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
- Not preheating the oven – Baking in an unheated oven can result in unevenly cooked donuts. Always preheat your oven before baking.
- Ignoring cooling time – Removing donuts from the pan too soon can cause them to break apart. Let them cool for at least 10 minutes in the pan before transferring them.
- Using stale ingredients – Fresh ingredients are key for flavor and texture. Check expiration dates on your baking powder and flour before starting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Coffee Cake Donuts in an airtight container.
- They will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Coffee Cake Donuts
- Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Coffee Cake Donuts
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm donuts for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat one donut at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
- Stovetop – Use a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid for about 3-4 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Coffee Cake Donuts:
Can I make Coffee Cake Donuts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Bake them fresh in the morning!
What can I substitute for sour cream?
You can use Greek yogurt or buttermilk as a substitute for sour cream in this recipe.
How do I add more flavor to my Coffee Cake Donuts?
Consider adding vanilla extract, nutmeg, or even chocolate chips to enhance the flavor profile.
Can I customize Coffee Cake Donuts?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, fruits like blueberries or bananas, or experiment with different spices according to your taste.
Final Thoughts
Coffee Cake Donuts are delightful and versatile treats that make any breakfast or snack time special. With their sweet crumb topping and lovely cinnamon flavor, they are sure to please anyone who tries them. Feel free to customize these donuts by adding your favorite mix-ins or toppings!

Coffee Cake Donuts
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful world of Coffee Cake Donuts, where sweet meets fluffy in a perfect harmony. These baked treats are topped with a crumbly cinnamon layer that enhances their flavor and texture, making them an ideal companion for morning coffee or an afternoon snack.
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 butter (for topping)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 3 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for topping)
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a donut pan with non-stick baking spray.
- 2. In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar, flour, and cinnamon for the crumb topping. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Chill it while you prepare the batter.
- 3. In a large bowl, whisk together dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together wet ingredients: sour cream, brown sugar, melted butter, and egg.
- 4. Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined.
- 5. Fill each donut mold with batter and sprinkle crumb topping evenly over each donut.
- 6. Bake for approximately 10-11 minutes until donuts spring back when lightly pressed. Let cool before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg