This Bisquick Coffee Cake is the kind of simple homemade treat that works equally well with a morning cup of coffee, an afternoon cup of tea, or as a quick dessert after dinner. The cake has a soft, tender crumb and a buttery cinnamon-brown sugar topping that becomes lightly crisp as it bakes. Using Bisquick baking mix keeps the preparation easy because you do not need to measure several separate dry ingredients. Everything comes together in one bowl for the cake and another for the streusel, making this a useful recipe when you want something homemade without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.
Bisquick Coffee Cake Recipe at a Glance
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25–30 minutes |
| Total Time | About 40 minutes |
| Servings | 9 pieces |
| Pan | 8 x 8-inch baking pan |
| Category | Breakfast, Snack, Dessert |
| Main Flavor | Cinnamon and Brown Sugar |
Ingredients
For the Coffee Cake
- 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
- 2/3 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
For the Cinnamon Streusel
- 1/3 cup Bisquick baking mix
- 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons cold butter
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How to Make Bisquick Coffee Cake
1. Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8 x 8-inch baking pan so the cake can be removed easily after baking. If you prefer a round cake, a 9-inch round pan can also be used.
2. Make the Cake Batter
Add the Bisquick baking mix, milk, granulated sugar, and egg to a medium bowl. Stir just until the ingredients are combined and you have a thick, smooth batter. There is no need to beat the mixture for a long time. Overmixing can make the finished cake less tender.
3. Spread the Batter
Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and gently spread it into an even layer. Since the batter is fairly thick, a spatula makes this step easier.
4. Make the Streusel
In a separate bowl, combine the Bisquick baking mix, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold butter and work it into the mixture with a fork or pastry cutter until small, crumbly pieces form. The mixture should look like a coarse cinnamon-sugar crumble rather than a smooth paste.
5. Add the Topping
Scatter the cinnamon streusel evenly over the cake batter. Try to cover most of the surface so every slice gets some of the buttery topping.
6. Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. Start checking around the 25-minute mark. The cake should look lightly golden on top, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool and Serve
Let the coffee cake rest for about 10 minutes before cutting. It is especially good while slightly warm, when the cinnamon topping is still fragrant and buttery.
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What You Can Do Better
For a softer coffee cake, avoid overmixing the batter once the ingredients are combined. Fresh Bisquick baking mix also helps the cake rise properly. If you want a slightly richer flavor, replace the regular milk with buttermilk using the same amount. For a stronger cinnamon flavor, you can add a small extra pinch of cinnamon to the streusel. If you prefer a thicker cake, stick with an 8 x 8-inch pan rather than spreading the batter into a larger pan.
The streusel is also worth paying attention to. Use cold butter rather than completely melted butter when making the crumb topping. Cold butter helps create small pieces of crumble that remain distinct during baking instead of turning into a thin layer of sugar on top.
Tips for the Best Bisquick Coffee Cake
- Do not overmix: Stir the batter only until everything is incorporated.
- Check early: Ovens vary, so begin checking the cake around 25 minutes.
- Use cold butter for the topping: It gives the streusel a more crumbly texture.
- Let it rest: A short cooling period makes the cake easier to slice.
- Serve it warm: The cinnamon and brown sugar topping tastes especially good when the cake is slightly warm.
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Can You Use Buttermilk?
Yes. Buttermilk can be substituted for regular milk in the same quantity. It gives the coffee cake a slightly richer taste and can make the crumb feel particularly tender.
How to Store Bisquick Coffee Cake
Once completely cooled, cover the coffee cake and keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Individual pieces can be warmed briefly in the microwave before serving.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes. Cut the cooled cake into individual portions and wrap the pieces well before placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. For the best texture, use the frozen cake within about 3 months. Thaw a piece at room temperature and warm it briefly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This coffee cake does not need much to make it enjoyable. Serve a warm slice with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. For brunch, you can serve it alongside fresh berries or sliced fruit. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also be added if you want a little extra sweetness, although the cinnamon streusel is already flavorful on its own.
Nutrition Information
The following nutrition information is an estimate for one serving and can vary depending on the specific Bisquick mix, milk, butter, and serving size used.
| Nutrient | Estimated Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 250–290 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | Approximately 38–42 g |
| Protein | Approximately 4–5 g |
| Fat | Approximately 10–12 g |
| Saturated Fat | Approximately 5–6 g |
| Sugar | Approximately 20–24 g |
| Fiber | Approximately 1 g |
| Sodium | Approximately 450–520 mg |
Also Read: Snickerdoodle Zucchini Bread
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Bisquick Coffee Cake contain coffee?
No. Despite its name, coffee cake does not normally contain coffee. It is traditionally a cake meant to be served with coffee, tea, or another drink.
Can I use a 9-inch round pan?
Yes. A 9-inch round pan works well, although the cake will be somewhat thinner than one baked in an 8 x 8-inch pan, so begin checking it a little earlier.
Why is my coffee cake dry?
Overbaking is one of the most common reasons. Start checking the cake around 25 minutes and remove it when a toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Can I add nuts?
Yes. Chopped pecans or walnuts can be added to the streusel for extra crunch. Keep the amount moderate so the topping still stays crumbly and evenly distributed.
Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?
Yes. Bake it earlier in the day, let it cool, and keep it covered until serving. A short warm-up in the microwave can bring back some of the soft texture before serving.
