Super Simple Coffee Cake Recipe: A Quick and Easy Treat

Learn how to make this super simple coffee cake with cinnamon sugar topping. Quick, easy, and perfect for brunch or an afternoon treat!

If you’re looking for a quick, no-fuss recipe to satisfy your sweet tooth, this super simple coffee cake is just what you need! With basic pantry ingredients and a prep time of just minutes, this cake is perfect for lazy mornings, family brunches, or whenever you’re craving something cozy and delicious.

Jump to Recipe

Let’s get baking with this moist, flavorful coffee cake topped with a sweet cinnamon sugar and pecan topping. It’s simple, classic, and always a hit!

super simple coffee cake with a lit candle and a striped dishtowel in the background

Why You’ll Love This Coffee Cake

  • Quick and Easy: Ready to bake in just minutes with simple ingredients.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack.
  • Customizable: Add nuts, swap flavors, or keep it classic—this cake works every time.
  • Crowd Pleaser: Always a favorite at family gatherings or potlucks.

Ingredients for Super Simple Coffee Cake

You only need a handful of ingredients for this delicious treat:

  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup shortening
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 3/4 cup flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 3 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 cup sugar and cinnamon, mixed
  • 1/8 cup pecans, chopped (optional)

How to Make Super Simple Coffee Cake

1. Cream the Sugar and Shortening

  • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and shortening until light and fluffy.

2. Add the Eggs and Vanilla

  • Beat in the eggs and vanilla, mixing well to combine.

3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Milk

  • Add the dry ingredients (flour, salt, and baking powder) alternately with the milk. Mix until smooth.

4. Spread Batter in Pan

  • Spread the batter evenly into a prepared 9-inch pan greased or lined with parchment paper.

5. Add the Topping

  • Mix the sugar, cinnamon, and chopped pecans in a small bowl. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the batter.

6. Bake

  • Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Amanda’s Tips for the Perfect Coffee Cake

  • Make It Your Own: If you’re not a fan of pecans, swap them for walnuts or skip the nuts altogether.
  • Double the Recipe: This recipe easily doubles if you’re baking for a crowd—just use a larger pan.
  • Add a Drizzle: For extra indulgence, drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled cake.
  • Best Served Fresh: This cake is best enjoyed the day it’s baked for maximum flavor and texture.

FAQs About Coffee Cake

Does this coffee cake contain coffee?

Nope! Despite the name, traditional coffee cake doesn’t include coffee. It’s simply a cake meant to pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.

Can I use butter instead of shortening?

Yes, you can substitute butter for shortening, though the texture may be slightly denser. Both options work well.

How should I store coffee cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.

super simple coffee cake on a white plate with a cup of coffee.

More Delicious Recipes to Try

If you love this super simple coffee cake, here are a few more recipes you’ll enjoy:

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Did You Try This Recipe?

I’d love to hear how your super simple coffee cake turned out! Share your experience in the comments below, and don’t forget to pin this recipe for later.

Simple Coffee Cake

Serving Size 12

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup shortening
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 3/4 cup flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 3 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 cup sugar and cinnamon mixed
  • 1/8 cup pecans chopped, optional

Instructions

  • Cream together shortening and sugar.
  • Add eggs and vanilla. Mix well.
  • Add dry ingredients alternately with milk
  • Spread in prepared 9" pan
  • Mix cinnamon, sugar, and pecans. Spread evenly on top of batter.
  • Bake at 350 for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown.

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