Coffee Cake Donuts

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee, then look no further than these Coffee Cake Donuts! These sweet, soft donuts have a crumbly cinnamon topping that brings warmth and joy to any breakfast table. They’re not just for the early risers; whether it’s a busy weeknight snack or a family gathering, these donuts have a way of making every moment feel special.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up a batch. Plus, the aroma of cinnamon and sugar baking in the oven will make your home feel cozy and inviting. Trust me, once you try these Coffee Cake Donuts, they’ll become a regular in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: With just a few steps, you’ll have delicious donuts ready to enjoy.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves sweet treats, and these donuts are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can easily prepare these donuts in advance for busy mornings or surprise guests.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of cinnamon and sugar in both the donut and crumb topping creates an irresistible taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delightful Coffee Cake Donuts, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating that perfect texture and flavor.

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 its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add some fruit: Toss in fresh blueberries or diced apples for an extra burst of flavor.
• Try different spices: Swap out cinnamon for nutmeg or pumpkin spice to change things up.
• Make it chocolatey: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a rich chocolate version of these donuts.
• Experiment with glazes: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and water for added sweetness.

How to Make Coffee Cake Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your donuts rise perfectly while baking. Next, take your 6-mold donut pan and coat it with non-stick baking spray. This step is essential so that your freshly baked donuts slide out easily without sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and cinnamon. Then add in those cold butter pieces. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse meal. Chilling this crumb topping while you prepare the donut batter helps keep it nice and crunchy when baked.

Step 3: Make the Donut Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together your wet ingredients: egg, sour cream, melted butter, and packed brown sugar until smooth. Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry mixture until just combined—overmixing can lead to dense donuts!

Step 4: Fill the Pan

Spoon or use a piping bag to fill each mold in your prepared donut pan with batter—don’t overfill them! Finally, sprinkle that heavenly crumb topping evenly over each donut before baking. This creates that delicious contrast between soft donut and crunchy topping.

Step 5: Bake & Cool

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10-11 minutes or until they spring back when lightly pressed. Once done, allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before gently transferring them to a wire rack for further cooling. This helps maintain their fluffy texture while preventing sogginess.

Enjoy every bite of these delightful Coffee Cake Donuts! They’re sure to brighten up any day!

Pro Tips for Making Coffee Cake Donuts

Creating the perfect Coffee Cake Donuts can be a delightful experience, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your baking game!

• Use cold butter for crumb topping: Starting with cold butter helps create that deliciously crumbly texture. It prevents the butter from melting too quickly, ensuring a nice crunch on top of your donuts.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding the wet and dry ingredients together allows for a light and fluffy donut. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts, so be kind to your batter!

• Chill the crumb topping: Keeping the crumb topping in the freezer while you prepare your batter ensures it stays firm when baked. This gives you that perfect crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft donut.

• Check doneness with a toothpick: Instead of relying solely on time, use a toothpick inserted into a donut to check for doneness. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, they’re ready!

• Let them cool properly: Allowing the donuts to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack prevents them from becoming soggy. This keeps them perfectly fluffy and enjoyable!

How to Serve Coffee Cake Donuts

Serving up these Coffee Cake Donuts is just as fun as making them! They are perfect for breakfast gatherings, brunch parties, or even as an afternoon snack.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and enhances sweetness without overwhelming flavors.
• Cinnamon Sprinkle: A sprinkle of cinnamon on top not only boosts flavor but also visually appeals to those who love this classic spice.
• Chopped Nuts: Adding chopped walnuts or pecans brings in some delightful crunch and nuttiness that pairs well with coffee cake flavors.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast and balances the sweetness of the donuts. Think juicy berries, crisp apples, and sweet oranges!
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy side dish that complements your donuts perfectly. It adds protein and creaminess to your meal.
• Coffee or Herbal Tea: Pairing these donuts with a cup of fresh coffee elevates the experience. Alternatively, herbal teas like chai or chamomile can offer a soothing balance.
• Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with fruits or nuts can make for a wholesome breakfast spread alongside your coffee cake donuts.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy your delicious Coffee Cake Donuts to their fullest! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

Coffee Cake Donuts are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful treat anytime. They store well and can even be frozen, so you can always have a sweet bite ready to go!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the donuts to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen donuts into a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the donuts in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• For a warm treat, heat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Coffee Cake Donuts that might help you in your baking journey!

Can I make Coffee Cake Donuts without sour cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk for a similar texture and flavor.

How do I ensure my Coffee Cake Donuts are fluffy?

To achieve fluffy Coffee Cake Donuts, be careful not to overmix your batter. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry just until combined.

What is the best way to enjoy Coffee Cake Donuts?

The best way to enjoy Coffee Cake Donuts is with a warm cup of coffee or tea. They make a perfect breakfast or afternoon snack!

Can I add toppings to my Coffee Cake Donuts?

Yes! Feel free to get creative. A drizzle of icing or a dusting of powdered sugar can add an extra special touch.

How long do Coffee Cake Donuts last?

When stored properly, these delicious treats can last up to 2 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! These Coffee Cake Donuts are not only easy to make but also create beautiful memories around the breakfast table. Whether you’re enjoying them solo with your coffee or sharing them with loved ones, I’m sure you’ll love making these delightful treats as much as I do. Enjoy every bite!