Copycat Starbucks Coffee Cake brings the iconic bakery-style treat right to your kitchen. This delightful cake features fluffy yellow cake layered with cinnamon sugar, topped with buttery crumb, and finished with a simple icing drizzle. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert with a steaming cup of coffee. Whether you’re gathering with friends or enjoying a quiet moment alone, this homemade delight is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Starbucks Coffee Cake

This copycat version of the popular Starbucks treat is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

Moist and Fluffy: The sour cream adds richness, resulting in a moist cake that melts in your mouth.
Perfectly Sweet: The balance of cinnamon and brown sugar creates a sweet filling that’s irresistible.
Easy to Bake: With simple ingredients, this is an easy coffee cake like Starbucks that anyone can master.
Great for Sharing: This recipe yields 12 servings, making it ideal for gatherings.
Customizable: You can easily adapt this homemade Starbucks coffee cake to your taste with various toppings.
Perfect Pairing: Enjoy it alongside your favorite coffee—just like at Starbucks!

Ingredients for Copycat Starbucks Coffee Cake

Gather these items:

1 box yellow cake mix
1 cup sour cream
3 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup brown sugar (for filling and topping)
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk

How to Make Copycat Starbucks Coffee Cake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine yellow cake mix, eggs, sour cream, and vegetable oil. Mix until smooth.
Step 3: In a separate small bowl, stir together brown sugar and cinnamon.
Step 4: Pour half the cake batter into the pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over it. Add the rest of the batter and smooth it out.
Step 5: For the crumb topping, combine the remaining brown sugar and cinnamon with flour and cold butter. Use a pastry cutter or fork to make coarse crumbs. Sprinkle over the top.
Step 6: Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Let the cake cool slightly.
Step 8: Whisk powdered sugar and milk together to form a smooth glaze. Drizzle over the cooled cake.

Pro Tips for the Best Copycat Starbucks Coffee Cake

Keep these in mind:

Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined to ensure fluffiness.
For a richer flavor, add vanilla extract to the batter.

Best Ways to Serve Copycat Starbucks Coffee Cake

This delicious coffee cake recipe inspired by Starbucks can be served in several ways:

Pair with freshly brewed coffee for a delightful breakfast experience.
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Top with fresh berries for a burst of flavor and color.

How to Store and Reheat Copycat Starbucks Coffee Cake

To store your homemade Starbucks coffee cake, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds until warm, or enjoy it cold for a refreshing treat.

Frequently Asked Questions About Copycat Starbucks Coffee Cake

What’s the secret to perfect Copycat Starbucks Coffee Cake?

The secret lies in using quality ingredients and ensuring not to overmix the batter. This allows for a light and fluffy texture similar to what you’d find in a Starbucks coffee shop. Plus, the cinnamon sugar filling makes it uniquely delicious.

Can I make Copycat Starbucks Coffee Cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pour it into the prepared pan the next day and bake. This is a great way to save time for brunch gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Copycat Starbucks Coffee Cake?

Avoid overmixing the batter, which can lead to a dense cake. Also, ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature before baking to achieve that perfect rise.

Variations of Copycat Starbucks Coffee Cake You Can Try

Feel free to explore these delicious variations:

Add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
Incorporate seasonal fruits like apples or cranberries for a fruity twist.
Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a unique taste.

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For more tips on baking, check out our article on baking techniques.

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To learn about the best coffee pairings, visit this guide.

For more delicious recipes, check out our collection.

And if you’re looking for a fun way to celebrate, see our ideas for birthday treats.

Finally, for a deeper dive into coffee culture, explore this resource.