Coffee cakes bring the flavor without the fuss. They’re the kind of bake that feels just right in the morning, holds its own at brunch, and works just as well for a late-night sweet bite. From fruity twists to nutty layers and spiced options, these recipes go beyond the basics. Some come together in a single bowl, others use shortcuts like cake mix or Bisquick, but every one is made to pair well with a hot cup of something.

Sour Cream Coffee Cake

Sour Cream Coffee Cake. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

This classic cake stays moist and soft with the help of sour cream. A cinnamon sugar swirl runs through the center and gives it a cozy flavor. The crumb topping adds a light crunch on top. It’s the kind of cake that tastes even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Sour Cream Coffee Cake

Macadamia Nut Coffee Cake

Two pieces of macadamia nut coffee cake on top of each other on a white plate.
Macadamia Nut Coffee Cake. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Chopped macadamia nuts give this cake a buttery crunch. The texture is soft underneath with a lightly crisp topping. A drizzle of glaze adds a bit of shine and sweetness. A different take on the usual nut-filled version.
Get the Recipe: Macadamia Nut Coffee Cake

Apple Sour Cream Coffee Cake

Closeup of a pan of apple sour cream coffee cake.
Apple Sour Cream Coffee Cake. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

Diced apples bake right into the batter, keeping things tender and flavorful. Sour cream makes the crumb rich without being heavy. A cinnamon sugar topping ties it all together. This one works well any time of year.
Get the Recipe: Apple Sour Cream Coffee Cake

Strawberry Coffee Cake

Three stacked slices of strawberry cake with soft centers and crumbly toppings, dusted with powdered sugar, topped and garnished with fresh strawberries.
Strawberry Coffee Cake. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Juicy strawberries bake into the batter and peek through the top. A light crumb topping gives contrast without overpowering the fruit. It’s sweet, soft and just a little tart. A great option when berries are in season.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Coffee Cake

Blueberry Coffee Cake with Streusel

Blueberry coffe cake sprinkled with streusel on top with bowl blueberrie on the side.
Blueberry Coffee Cake with Streusel. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

This version has fresh or frozen blueberries baked into a soft vanilla base. The streusel topping adds sweetness and texture. It slices clean and stays moist. Perfect for serving a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Coffee Cake with Streusel

Cake Mix Coffee Cake

A slice of coffee cake with crumbly topping and white icing sits on a wooden coaster, with pecans and a fork nearby—perfect for those who love Coffee Cakes with soft centers.
Cake Mix Coffee Cake. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

A box of cake mix makes this one quick and reliable. A cinnamon sugar filling runs through the middle and adds a homemade touch. The texture is soft and airy. Great when you need something fast but still flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Cake Mix Coffee Cake

Blueberry Coffee Cake

A slice of blueberry coffee cake on a plate with a fork.
Blueberry Coffee Cake. Photo credit: Quick Prep Recipes.

Simple and reliable, this cake balances juicy blueberries with a tender crumb. It bakes evenly and holds its shape well. A dusting of powdered sugar finishes it off. Easy to serve straight from the pan.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Coffee Cake

Bisquick Coffee Cake

Bisquick Coffee Cake. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

This shortcut cake uses pantry staples and comes together fast. It’s soft with a buttery cinnamon topping. No mixer needed and bakes in one pan. A quick fix for early mornings.
Get the Recipe: Bisquick Coffee Cake

Pecan Pie Coffee Cake

Pecan Pie Coffee Cake. Photo credit: Maria’s Mixing Bowl.

This one has all the gooey goodness of pecan pie layered into a coffee cake. The topping is rich and sticky with just the right crunch. The base is soft but sturdy enough to hold it all. Serve warm for extra impact.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Coffee Cake

Air Fryer Pistachio Pudding Coffee Cake

Air Fryer Pistachio Pudding Coffee Cake. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

Pistachio pudding mix adds color and flavor to this moist cake. The air fryer bakes it quickly with a lightly crisp top. Crushed pistachios bring texture and a little saltiness. A fun and different way to use your air fryer.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pistachio Pudding Coffee Cake

Healthy Coffee Cake

A plate with a slice of healthy coffee cake on it.
Healthy Coffee Cake. Photo credit: The Honour System.

This version cuts back on sugar but still has the flavor. A cinnamon swirl runs through the center for warmth. It stays soft with ingredients like yogurt or applesauce. Good for when you want something lighter but still sweet.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Coffee Cake

Cinnamon Coffee Cake

A slice of cinnamon coffee cake topped with brown sugar streusel.
Cinnamon Coffee Cake. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

Classic and crowd-pleasing, this one leans into warm cinnamon flavor. The crumb is light and fluffy with a sugary topping that adds crunch. It works with coffee, tea or just by itself. Always a safe bet for brunch or potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Coffee Cake

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, Iโ€™m Lucy! Iโ€™m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. Iโ€™ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

Follow Lucy on social media:

You May Also Like:

Sign up with your email address to receive a 5-day series of Southern Cooking Secrets, followed by weekly emails with recipes and tips. We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *