Coffee Cake Donuts

If you’re looking for a delightful way to brighten up your mornings, look no further than these Coffee Cake Donuts! They are the perfect blend of sweetness and warmth, making them an irresistible treat. I love how easy they are to whip up, and they always put a smile on my family’s faces. Whether it’s a busy weekday breakfast or a cozy gathering with friends, these donuts will surely make any occasion feel extra special.

The best part? You can enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save some for later. Trust me, once you try these Coffee Cake Donuts, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: With just a few straightforward steps, you can have warm donuts ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: These treats are loved by both kids and adults alike. They make for a sweet surprise during breakfast!
• Perfectly Pair with Coffee: The crumbly cinnamon topping makes these donuts an ideal companion to your morning brew.
• Make Ahead: You can easily prepare the batter in advance, so you have fresh donuts whenever you want them.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of sour cream and light brown sugar creates a moist and flavorful donut that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Now let’s talk about the ingredients! You’ll find that they are simple and wholesome, making this recipe as approachable as it is delicious. Here’s what you’ll need for those delightful Coffee Cake Donuts:

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! You can easily customize these Coffee Cake Donuts to suit your tastes. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Toss in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra sweet surprise!
• Try Different Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
• Incorporate Fruit: Add mashed bananas or grated apples into the batter for added moisture and flavor.
• Glaze Them Up: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and almond milk on top after baking for an extra treat!

How to Make Coffee Cake Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step ensures that your donuts bake evenly and come out perfectly fluffy. While that heats up, grab your 6-mold donut pan and coat it with non-stick baking spray—this will help your delicious donuts slide right out after baking.

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 cubes! Work them into the mixture quickly until it resembles coarse meal. Pop this crumb topping into the freezer while you prepare the donut batter; chilling it helps create that lovely crumbly texture.

Step 3: Make the Donut Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine your wet ingredients: egg, sour cream, light brown sugar, and melted butter. Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry mixture until just combined; be careful not to overmix! This keeps your donuts soft and tender.

Step 4: Fill Your Donut Pan

Spoon or use a piping bag to fill each mold in your prepared donut pan with batter. It should be about three-quarters full. Now sprinkle that chilled crumb topping evenly over each donut; this is where they’ll get their signature coffee cake flavor!

Step 5: Bake Those Goodies

Now it’s time to bake! Pop your pan in the oven for about 10-11 minutes or until they spring back when lightly pressed. Once done, let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before gently removing them. Transfer those golden-brown beauties onto a wire rack so they can cool completely.

With these steps completed, you’ll have warm and inviting Coffee Cake Donuts ready to be enjoyed! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Coffee Cake Donuts

Making the perfect Coffee Cake Donuts can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure they turn out beautifully every time!

• Use Cold Butter for the Crumb Topping: Starting with cold butter helps create a crumbly texture in your topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft donuts below.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently folding the wet ingredients into the dry prevents gluten from developing too much, which keeps your donuts tender and fluffy.

• Chill the Crumb Topping: Chilling the crumb mixture before baking helps it maintain its texture and prevents it from melting away during baking, ensuring a nice crunch.

• Check Donuts Early: Ovens can vary, so start checking your donuts a minute or two earlier than the recipe suggests. They should spring back when lightly pressed for perfect doneness.

• Allow to Cool in Pan: Letting them cool in the pan for 10 minutes allows them to set properly, making them easier to remove without breaking.

How to Serve Coffee Cake Donuts

These Coffee Cake Donuts not only taste amazing but can also be presented beautifully. Here are some ideas on how to serve this scrumptious treat!

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds sweetness and an appealing visual contrast.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Mix equal parts cinnamon and sugar for a crunchy topping that enhances the flavor.
• Fresh Fruit: Slices of fresh strawberries or blueberries can add a pop of color and freshness to your plate.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a bright, juicy contrast that complements the richness of the donuts.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries creates a wholesome side that balances out the sweetness of the donuts.
• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or aromatic tea is a classic pairing that enhances your breakfast or snack experience.
• Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl filled with fruits and topped with nuts or seeds offers a nutritious side that pairs well with your sweet treats.

Enjoy these delightful Coffee Cake Donuts any time of day, and share them with friends and family for an even sweeter experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Coffee Cake Donuts are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy a delicious treat whenever you like. Here’s how to store and preserve their freshness:

Storing Leftovers

• After the donuts have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their shelf life to about a week.

Freezing

• Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped donuts in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months; just remember to label the container with the date!

Reheating

• For a quick reheat, pop the donuts in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can warm them in an oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making these delightful Coffee Cake Donuts!

Can I make Coffee Cake Donuts without eggs?

Absolutely! You can replace the egg with a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup) for a vegan option.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Coffee Cake Donuts?

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg into your batter. You can also experiment with different spices to find your favorite combination!

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes! Whole wheat flour can be used as a substitute, but it may result in denser donuts. You might want to mix half all-purpose and half whole wheat for lighter texture while still being healthier.

What makes these Coffee Cake Donuts special?

These donuts are not only soft and sweet but also topped with a delicious crumb topping that adds texture and flavor. They’re great paired with coffee for breakfast or as an afternoon snack!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Coffee Cake Donuts! They bring together sweetness and warmth, perfect for sharing with family or enjoying during quiet moments. Don’t hesitate to get creative—experiment with flavors and toppings! Enjoy every bite, and happy baking!