Coffee Cake Donuts are a delightful treat that combines the best of coffee cake and donuts. These sweet, soft pastries feature a crumbly cinnamon topping that complements their fluffy texture perfectly. Ideal for breakfast or as a snack, they are versatile enough to brighten any occasion. Enjoy them with your favorite coffee or tea, making every bite a moment to savor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of vanilla and cinnamon creates a warm, inviting taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual brunch or a festive gathering, these donuts fit right in.
- Customizable Topping: Feel free to experiment with different toppings to suit your taste.
- Pairs Well with Coffee: These donuts are the ultimate companion for your morning cup of coffee or afternoon tea.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will make preparation easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick donut pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Piping bag or spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick donut pan: Ensures easy removal of donuts without sticking.
- Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients efficiently.
- Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the batter for fluffier 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 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 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 (flour, baking powder, and salt). In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients (egg, sour cream, melted butter, and brown sugar). 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 of your prepared donut pan with batter. Sprinkle an even layer of crumb topping over each filled donut mold.
Step 5: Bake & Cool
Bake in the oven for about 10-11 minutes or until the donuts spring back when lightly pressed. Let them cool in the pan for around 10 minutes before gently removing them. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before enjoying!
How to Serve Coffee Cake Donuts
Coffee Cake Donuts are a delightful treat that can elevate any meal or snack. Here are some creative ways to enjoy them.
With a Hot Beverage
- Coffee: Pair these donuts with a fresh cup of coffee for a perfect morning start.
- Tea: A warm cup of herbal or black tea complements the sweet flavors beautifully.
As a Dessert
- Ice Cream: Serve alongside vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
- Whipped Cream: Top the donuts with a dollop of whipped cream for added decadence.
For Breakfast
- Fresh Fruit: Add some sliced bananas or berries on the side to enhance your breakfast plate.
- Yogurt: A serving of yogurt can provide a creamy contrast to the sweet donuts.
How to Perfect Coffee Cake Donuts
Perfecting Coffee Cake Donuts takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out great every time.
- Use cold butter: Keeping the butter cold when making the crumb topping helps achieve that desirable crumbly texture.
- Room temperature egg: Using an egg at room temperature allows it to blend more smoothly into the batter.
- Don’t overmix: Gently folding the wet and dry ingredients prevents tough donuts, ensuring they stay soft and fluffy.
- Check doneness: Bake until the donuts spring back when lightly pressed; this is crucial for perfect texture.
- Cool properly: Letting them cool in the pan before transferring ensures they hold their shape.
Best Side Dishes for Coffee Cake Donuts
Enhance your Coffee Cake Donuts experience by pairing them with these tasty side dishes.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a filling side.
- Egg Muffins: Savory egg muffins make for a well-rounded breakfast option.
- Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal provides heartiness along with sweetness from donuts.
- Smoothie Bowl: Blend your favorite fruits and top with nuts for added crunch and nutrition.
- Cereal: A bowl of crunchy cereal can offer a delightful textural contrast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Coffee Cake Donuts can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Wrong Oven Temperature: It’s crucial to preheat your oven correctly. An incorrect temperature can lead to donuts that are either undercooked or burnt.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can develop gluten, resulting in dense donuts. Mix just until you see no dry flour.
- Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing the donuts to cool in the pan is essential. If you remove them too soon, they may fall apart.
- Not Using a Non-Stick Spray: Forgetting to grease your donut pan can lead to sticking. A non-stick spray ensures easy removal.
- Inconsistent Crumb Topping: Make sure the crumb topping is evenly distributed. This adds texture and flavor, so don’t skip this step.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Coffee Cake Donuts
- Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- To maintain freshness, wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a bag.
Reheating Coffee Cake Donuts
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 5-7 minutes. This method keeps them moist and fluffy.
- Microwave: Heat each donut for about 10-15 seconds. This is quick but may make them slightly chewy.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet on low heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally. This helps retain moisture while warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Coffee Cake Donuts?
Coffee Cake Donuts are sweet treats that combine the flavors of coffee cake with the fun of a donut. They have a soft base topped with a crumbly cinnamon mixture.
How do I store Coffee Cake Donuts?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage, ensuring they are well-wrapped.
Can I customize my Coffee Cake Donuts?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even fruit like blueberries or apples to enhance flavor and texture.
How long do Coffee Cake Donuts last?
When stored properly, they can last up to three days at room temperature or about three months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
Coffee Cake Donuts are not only delicious but also versatile. Their sweet flavor and delightful crumb topping make them perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Feel free to get creative with mix-ins and toppings; these donuts will surely become a favorite!
Coffee Cake Donuts
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful world of Coffee Cake Donuts, a perfect fusion of soft, fluffy donuts and the warm, comforting flavors of coffee cake. These treats are topped with a crunchy cinnamon crumb that enhances every bite, making them an irresistible choice for breakfast or a sweet snack any time of day. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, they pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself, these homemade delights will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup cold butter (cut into pieces)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 1/2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a non-stick donut pan with baking spray.
- In a small bowl, combine sugar, flour, and cinnamon for the crumb topping. Add cold butter and mix until crumbly; chill in the freezer.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix egg, sour cream, melted butter, and brown sugar before folding into dry ingredients.
- Fill each donut mold with batter and top with crumb mixture.
- Bake for about 10-11 minutes until donuts spring back when pressed. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut (50g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Keep butter cold for a better crumb topping texture. Use room temperature eggs for easy mixing. Don't overmix; gently fold wet and dry ingredients together.
