Coffee cake is one of those desserts that fits in anywhere, at brunch, after dinner, or alongside an actual cup of coffee. It’s not too sweet, not too rich, and often has just the right balance of tender cake and crumbly topping. Some versions use fruit, others lean into nuts or spices, but all are baked with comfort in mind. Whether you want something from scratch, from a mix, or even made in the air fryer or Instant Pot, these recipes show just how many ways you can enjoy this classic.
Sour Cream Coffee Cake
This version uses sour cream for a dense, moist crumb and subtle tang. A cinnamon sugar swirl runs through the center with a crisp topping above. The texture stays soft for days. Simple, reliable, and easy to dress up with nuts or glaze.
Get the Recipe: Sour Cream Coffee Cake
Air Fryer Pistachio Pudding Coffee Cake
This quick coffee cake bakes in the air fryer using pistachio pudding mix for a vibrant color and moist texture. The flavor is subtly nutty and sweet. It’s perfect in smaller batches. Top with chopped pistachios or powdered sugar.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pistachio Pudding Coffee Cake
Bisquick Coffee Cake
Made with baking mix, this shortcut cake comes together fast and still delivers on texture. It has a light, fluffy base and a cinnamon sugar topping. Great for last-minute guests or weekend brunch. No need for stand mixers or long prep.
Get the Recipe: Bisquick Coffee Cake
Coffee Cake
The classic version: tender vanilla cake with a ribbon of cinnamon sugar and a buttery crumble on top. It’s what most people think of when they hear “coffee cake.” Works well with or without glaze. Always dependable and crowd-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Coffee Cake
Pumpkin Coffee Cake
Pumpkin puree and warm spices add seasonal flavor and moisture to the base. The crumble topping gets extra crunch from brown sugar and cinnamon. It bakes up dense and rich with fall flavor. Serve with whipped cream or a maple glaze.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Coffee Cake
Macadamia Nut Coffee Cake
Buttery macadamia nuts add crunch to the top and a little richness inside. The cake is soft and lightly sweet, often flavored with vanilla or coconut. It’s a great twist on the classic for nut lovers. Try it with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Get the Recipe: Macadamia Nut Coffee Cake
Instant Pot Spanish Coffee Cake
Made in the pressure cooker, this coffee cake is often flavored with cinnamon, cocoa, or citrus zest. It stays super moist due to the steam-based cooking. A different method but the same warm, spiced results. Best served warm with glaze or fruit.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spanish Coffee Cake
Strawberry Coffee Cake
Fresh or frozen strawberries are folded into the batter or layered in the center. The fruit adds tart sweetness that cuts through the richness of the crumb. Great in spring or summer. Top with a sugar crumble or light glaze.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Coffee Cake
Cake Mix Coffee Cake
This one starts with a boxed mix and adds cinnamon sugar and a crumble topping. It’s soft, fluffy, and bakes up quickly. Use yellow, spice, or even chocolate cake mix to switch up the flavor. Ideal when you want a shortcut without sacrificing taste.
Get the Recipe: Cake Mix Coffee Cake
Blueberry Sour Cream Coffee Cake
Blueberries are folded into a thick sour cream batter, adding bursts of fruit throughout. The crumb is tender and the berries stay juicy after baking. A cinnamon topping finishes it off. Good for breakfast or dessert.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Sour Cream Coffee Cake
Pecan Pie Coffee Cake
This version has a layer of pecan filling that mimics the flavor of pecan pie. Brown sugar and butter soak into the cake, while pecans add texture on top. It’s rich, sweet, and perfect for holidays. Serve in slices or squares.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Coffee Cake
