Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake

There is something magical about a cake that greets you with a warm cinnamon aroma the moment it leaves the oven. This Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake is the kind of treat that feels like home, with a tender crumb and a sweet crackly topping that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee or an afternoon cup of tea. It’s cozy, comforting, and just the right balance of sweetness and spice.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe is rooted in the simple, heartwarming traditions of Amish baking. Known for their resourcefulness and love of homemade comfort foods, the Amish have perfected the art of creating satisfying desserts with humble pantry staples. This cake embodies that spirit, turning everyday ingredients into a dessert that feels special yet familiar.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Coffee cakes have been enjoyed for centuries across many cultures, often served as a morning or midday treat. The Amish version leans into simplicity with straightforward ingredients, but the magic lies in the layering of cinnamon sugar, which creates that unmistakable ribbon of flavor running through the cake. Interestingly, coffee cakes rarely contain coffee themselves, but they have always been meant to be enjoyed alongside a warm cup.

Why You’ll Love Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake

It’s not just a cake, it’s a little moment of comfort baked into every slice.

Versatile: Enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or even as a snack.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples you probably already have on hand.

Quick and Easy: Comes together in under an hour with minimal fuss.

Customizable: Add nuts, swap sugars, or drizzle a glaze for your own twist.

Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or family breakfasts.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Stays moist and delicious when baked the day before.

Great for Leftovers: A quick reheat in the microwave brings it back to life.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Baking this cake is straightforward, but a few insider tips make all the difference:

1. Always use room temperature butter and eggs for the fluffiest texture.
2. Don’t overmix the batter, as this can make the crumb dense.
3. A light swirl of the cinnamon sugar layer ensures even distribution without blending it in completely.
4. Check for doneness with a toothpick, but avoid overbaking to keep it moist.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before diving in, it helps to have the right tools ready:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients.
• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: To cream the butter and sugar properly.
• Spatula: For folding the batter gently.
• 9×13 Baking Pan: The perfect size for this cake.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key in baking.

Ingredients in Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake

This cake comes together with a handful of everyday ingredients that work in harmony to create something truly special.

1. All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups provides structure and stability for the cake.
2. Granulated Sugar: 1 cup sweetens the batter while keeping it light.
3. Brown Sugar: 1 cup, packed deepens the flavor and caramel-like notes.
4. Ground Cinnamon: 2 teaspoons brings that warm, comforting spice.
5. Baking Powder: 1 tablespoon ensures the cake rises beautifully.
6. Salt: ½ teaspoon balances the sweetness.
7. Butter: 1 cup, softened adds richness and tenderness.
8. Eggs: 2 large help bind and give structure.
9. Milk: 1 cup keeps the cake moist and fluffy.
10. Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon enhances the flavor with a subtle sweetness.

Ingredient Substitutions

Sometimes you may not have everything on hand, and that’s perfectly fine.

Milk: Buttermilk or almond milk works well.
Butter: Margarine or coconut oil can be swapped in.
Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar or additional granulated sugar will do the trick.
Flour: Use a 1:1 gluten-free blend if needed.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cinnamon: This humble spice is the star here, giving warmth, depth, and that irresistible aroma.

Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a caramel-like richness that white sugar alone can’t provide.

Instructions for Making Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake

This cake is a joy to bake, filling your kitchen with the kind of aroma that makes everyone wander in to see what’s in the oven.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13 baking pan.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk into the butter mixture until smooth.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. This will be your ribbon and topping.
4. Assemble the Dish: Pour half of the batter into the pan, sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture, then top with the remaining batter. Finish with the rest of the cinnamon sugar on top.
5. Cook to Perfection: Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Finishing Touches: Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing to let the flavors settle.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Slice generously, serve warm, and enjoy with your favorite coffee or tea.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This cake has a tender, moist crumb with a delightful crunch from the sugar topping. The contrast between the buttery base and the warm cinnamon swirl creates a comforting harmony of flavors, making every bite satisfying yet light.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

A few small adjustments can make this cake even better:

• Line your pan with parchment for easy removal and clean-up.
• Warm slices briefly before serving to refresh the cinnamon aroma.
• Pair with a simple glaze if you prefer an extra touch of sweetness.

What to Avoid

Even simple cakes have pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overmixing the batter, which can lead to a dense texture.
• Overbaking, as this will dry out the crumb.
• Skipping the layering, since it creates the signature ribbon of cinnamon sugar.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 320

Note These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This cake keeps beautifully. Bake it a day ahead, wrap tightly, and it will taste even better as the flavors meld. Store leftovers at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze slices individually for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

How to Serve Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake

Serve warm with coffee, tea, or even a cold glass of milk. It makes a charming addition to brunch spreads and pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Don’t let a crumb go to waste. Leftovers can become:

• A base for trifle layered with cream and berries.
• Toasted slices served with butter for a cozy snack.
• Cubed and used as a topping for yogurt parfaits.

Additional Tips

Use high-quality cinnamon for the best flavor, and if you want a stronger kick, add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom. Keep ingredients at room temperature for smoother mixing.

Make It a Showstopper

Present this cake on a rustic wooden board or a cake stand, dust lightly with powdered sugar, and garnish with a cinnamon stick or two. A few fresh berries on the side add a pop of color.

Variations to Try

1. Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon sugar mixture for extra crunch.
2. Swap cinnamon with pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
3. Stir in a handful of mini chocolate chips for a sweeter surprise.
4. Add a thin glaze of powdered sugar and milk for a bakery-style finish.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make this in a smaller pan?

Yes, but reduce the baking time slightly and check for doneness earlier.

Q2: Does this cake need to be refrigerated?

No, it keeps well at room temperature for a few days.

Q3: Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but expect a denser texture. Try substituting half for balance.

Q4: Can I add nuts to the batter?

Absolutely, pecans or walnuts work well.

Q5: Can I make this without eggs?

Yes, substitute with flax eggs or applesauce.

Q6: What kind of milk is best?

Whole milk adds richness, but any milk works.

Q7: Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use two pans or a larger one and adjust the baking time.

Q8: How do I know when it’s done?

A toothpick inserted should come out clean, not wet.

Q9: Can I use oil instead of butter?

You can, but butter gives the best flavor.

Q10: Is this cake freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze slices wrapped individually for easy grab-and-go treats.

Conclusion

This Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake is the kind of recipe that never goes out of style. Simple, cozy, and deeply satisfying, it’s a treat that feels like a hug in every bite. Trust me, you’re going to love this one, and once you bake it, it may just become your go-to comfort cake for every season.

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