If you’re looking for a rich, moist, and utterly delicious treat that combines the cozy warmth of cinnamon with the irresistible charm of butterscotch, this Butterscotch Coffee Cake Recipe is your new best friend. Perfect for brunch gatherings or a sweet dessert after dinner, it’s a simple yet show-stopping cake that feels both nostalgic and effortlessly special. Every bite melts in your mouth with a smooth blend of cake mix and butterscotch pudding, complemented beautifully by a swirl of cinnamon and brown sugar. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a cherished staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Butterscotch Coffee Cake Recipe right depends on using simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each serve a delicious purpose. From the cake mix that gives it structure, to the pudding that adds moistness and that signature butterscotch flavor, every ingredient plays an essential role in delivering the perfect balance of taste and texture.
- Yellow cake mix: Acts as the perfect base providing a light and tender crumb.
- Instant butterscotch pudding mix: Adds incredible moistness and the unmistakable butterscotch flavor.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake wonderfully moist and soft without adding extra flavor.
- Eggs: Help bind the ingredients while giving the cake structure and richness.
- Water: Makes the batter smooth and pourable for even baking.
- Brown sugar: Brings sweetness with caramel undertones that perfectly complement the butterscotch.
- Cinnamon: Adds warm spice that swirls through the cake, creating aromatic layers.
How to Make Butterscotch Coffee Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Choose either a bundt pan or a 9×13-inch pan—both work beautifully. Grease your pan thoroughly so the cake comes out cleanly, ensuring those lovely swirls of cinnamon and sugar are not lost in the pan’s embrace.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and the instant butterscotch pudding mix. Then add the vegetable oil, eggs, and water. Whisk everything together until the batter is smooth and glossy. This combination creates a silky canvas where butterscotch flavor truly shines through every tender crumb.
Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
In a separate small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon. This simple duo brings a lovely sweetness balanced by spice, which will transform the cake’s texture with little pockets of caramelized goodness.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Pour half of the batter into your prepared pan. Evenly sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter. Then add the remaining batter on top, followed by the rest of the cinnamon sugar. Use a knife or a skewer to gently swirl the sugar layer into the batter—this is the secret to those beautiful, delicious ribbons in every slice.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place your pan in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye out for a lightly golden top and a toothpick inserted into the center that comes out clean. Baking brings out the moistness from the pudding mixture and the rich butterscotch depth that makes this cake irresistible.
How to Serve Butterscotch Coffee Cake Recipe
Garnishes
This Butterscotch Coffee Cake Recipe is divine with a few simple additions. Consider drizzling warm caramel sauce or a decadent butterscotch glaze on top for that next-level indulgence. A sprinkle of powdered sugar can add a touch of elegance, or a handful of chopped nuts for a crunch contrast.
Side Dishes
Pair this coffee cake with a cup of your favorite morning brew—be it coffee, tea, or even a creamy latte. It also works wonderfully alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness with a fresh, light note.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, cut the cake into bite-sized squares and serve on a decorative platter with mini forks for a coffee break buffet. You can also slice thick wedges and plate with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert, perfect anytime you want a little sweetness with flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake stays fresh when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The moisture from the pudding mix helps prevent it from drying out, so every slice remains soft and tender.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake by wrapping individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture.
Reheating
Warm slices gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or in a low oven wrapped in foil to refresh the softness. This keeps the butterscotch flavors lively and the cake feeling freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cake mix instead of box mix?
Absolutely! A homemade yellow cake base will work just as beautifully, though the pudding mix is key to getting that signature moist texture and butterscotch flavor. Just be sure your cake batter is smooth and pourable for the swirl effect.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free version and ensure your pudding mix is gluten-free as well. The texture might vary slightly, but the delicious butterscotch essence will remain intact.
Can I use butter instead of vegetable oil?
You can replace the vegetable oil with melted butter for a richer taste. Keep in mind this may alter the texture slightly, making it a bit denser, but it adds lovely buttery notes that enhance the cake.
How should I swirl the cinnamon sugar for the best effect?
After layering the batter and cinnamon sugar alternately, use a knife or skewer to draw gentle figure-eight or circular motions just a few times. Avoid over-mixing to maintain distinct swirls that give the cake its beautiful marbled appearance.
What’s the best way to serve leftover butterscotch coffee cake?
Leftover cake is delightful warmed slightly with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of ice cream. Pair with coffee or tea for a comforting snack any time of day.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about this Butterscotch Coffee Cake Recipe that turns simple ingredients into a luscious, crowd-pleasing treat. Whether you’re baking it for a casual brunch or a dessert that feels extra special, the moist texture, warm cinnamon swirls, and butterscotch richness create a cozy flavor experience you’ll want to savor again and again. So go ahead, give it a try—you’re just one bite away from a new favorite cake!
Print
Butterscotch Coffee Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and moist butterscotch coffee cake, perfect for brunch or dessert, featuring a luscious blend of yellow cake mix and instant butterscotch pudding with a cinnamon-brown sugar swirl.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant butterscotch pudding mix
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 4 eggs
- ¾ cup water
Swirl Topping
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Grease a bundt pan or a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Mix Batter: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, instant butterscotch pudding mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and water. Stir the ingredients together until the batter is smooth and well blended with no lumps.
- Prepare Swirl Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon until evenly combined.
- Layer Batter and Swirl: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan. Evenly sprinkle half of the cinnamon brown sugar mixture over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top, then sprinkle the rest of the sugar mixture. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the sugar into the batter creating a marbled effect.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool before serving.
Notes
- For an extra indulgent touch, top the cake with caramel or butterscotch glaze before serving.
- You can use either a bundt pan or a 9×13 inch pan depending on your preference.
- Ensure the cake is fully cooled before glazing to avoid melting the topping.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
