Coffee Cake Donuts

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to brighten your mornings or sweeten your afternoons, let me introduce you to my favorite Coffee Cake Donuts! These soft, fluffy donuts topped with a crumbly cinnamon mixture are not just a feast for the taste buds but also perfect for pairing with your morning coffee. They’re easy to whip up and always receive rave reviews from friends and family.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight dessert or a special touch for weekend brunch, these Coffee Cake Donuts will bring smiles all around. Trust me, once you make them, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, you’ll have fresh donuts in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love these sweet treats! They’re perfect for breakfast or an after-school snack.
• Perfectly Portable: Great for taking on the go or sharing at gatherings—these donuts travel well!
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of cinnamon and sugar makes every bite blissful.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the batter ahead of time or freeze leftovers for later enjoyment.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Coffee Cake Donuts is a breeze with just a handful of straightforward ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create these wonderful treats:

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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with flavors and toppings. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add chocolate chips: Fold in some mini chocolate chips into the donut batter for a sweet surprise.
• Try different spices: Swap out the cinnamon for nutmeg or pumpkin spice to change up the flavor profile.
• Glaze them: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and water for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Experiment with toppings: Use chopped nuts or sprinkles in place of crumb topping for added texture.

How to Make Coffee Cake Donuts

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step ensures that your donuts bake evenly. While that’s happening, take your 6-mold donut pan and coat it with non-stick baking spray. This will help prevent any sticking when you remove those delicious donuts later.

Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and cinnamon. Add in the cold pieces of butter and work them into the mixture swiftly until it resembles coarse meal. Chilling this topping in the freezer while you prepare the donut batter will help it hold its shape during baking, creating that lovely crumb texture we all adore.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. It’s essential to combine these dry ingredients thoroughly so that your donuts rise beautifully in the oven.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together your wet ingredients: sour cream, melted butter, light brown sugar, and egg. Mixing them separately helps ensure that all components come together smoothly without overmixing later.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently fold the wet mixture into your dry ingredients until just combined. It’s okay if there are some lumps; overmixing can lead to dense donuts rather than light ones!

Step 6: Fill the Pan and Add Topping

Spoon or use a piping bag to fill each mold of your prepared donut pan with batter—don’t overfill; they’ll puff up! Then sprinkle that delicious crumb topping evenly over each donut before sliding them into the oven.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Bake your Coffee Cake Donuts in the oven for about 10-11 minutes or until they spring back when lightly pressed. Once done, let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before gently removing them onto a wire rack. Allowing them to cool properly prevents sogginess while maintaining their delightful texture.

Enjoy every moment as you share these Coffee Cake Donuts with loved ones—they’re sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Coffee Cake Donuts

Making the perfect Coffee Cake Donuts is all about attention to detail and a little love. Here are some tips to guide you through the process!

• Use cold butter for the crumb topping – Cold butter helps create that desirable crumbly texture, ensuring your topping has a delightful crunch when baked.

• Don’t overmix the batter – Gently folding the wet and dry ingredients helps maintain a light texture in your donuts. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts that lack the fluffy quality we all crave.

• Chill your crumb topping – Allowing the crumb mixture to chill in the freezer enhances its texture during baking. This results in a lovely, crunchy topping that contrasts perfectly with the soft donut.

• Check for doneness – Every oven is different! Start checking your donuts a minute or two before the recommended baking time. They should spring back lightly when pressed, indicating they are ready.

• Let them cool before serving – Allowing your donuts to cool slightly after baking will help set their structure and make them easier to handle. Plus, they taste even better once they’ve cooled!

How to Serve Coffee Cake Donuts

Serving Coffee Cake Donuts can be just as delightful as making them! With a few simple touches, you can create an unforgettable breakfast or snack experience.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting – A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and makes your donuts look extra inviting.

• Cinnamon sprinkle – A dash of cinnamon on top not only enhances flavor but also brings out that warm, cozy feeling associated with coffee cake.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the donuts and adds a refreshing contrast to your meal.

• Yogurt parfaits – Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a creamy, crunchy side that balances out the richness of the donuts beautifully.

• Herbal tea or coffee – Pairing these treats with a warm cup of herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee elevates your breakfast, creating a comforting atmosphere perfect for leisurely mornings.

By following these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll transform simple Coffee Cake Donuts into an extraordinary treat that’s sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Coffee Cake Donuts are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store and preserve their deliciousness.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer them chilled, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

• To freeze the donuts, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the donuts to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored this way for up to 2 months.
• For best results, consider freezing them without the crumb topping, then add it fresh when you reheat.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen donuts, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the donuts on a baking sheet and warm them for about 10-12 minutes until heated through.
• If they have been stored at room temperature, you can enjoy them as is or warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Coffee Cake Donuts that might help you out!

Can I use a different type of flour for Coffee Cake Donuts?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends. Just keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly.

How do I achieve a nice crumb topping for my Coffee Cake Donuts?

To get that perfect crumb topping, make sure your butter is cold and work it into the mixture quickly. This helps maintain that delightful texture when baked!

Can I make these Coffee Cake Donuts ahead of time?

Absolutely! These donuts are great for meal prep as they can be made ahead of time and stored or frozen for later enjoyment.

What’s the best way to serve Coffee Cake Donuts?

These donuts shine when paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea! Serve them warm for breakfast or as an afternoon snack with friends and family.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Coffee Cake Donuts as much as I do! Their sweet flavor and soft texture truly make them special, whether it’s breakfast time or an afternoon treat. Don’t hesitate to try different toppings or flavor variations—get creative! Happy baking, and may your kitchen always be filled with love and delicious aromas!