Name: Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1 cup sour cream (or buttermilk for extra tang); ½ cup brown sugar, packed; 2 tsp cinnamon; ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

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This Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake is a warm and comforting classic that’s ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon break. With a tender, buttery crumb and layers of sweet cinnamon sugar, it offers all the nostalgic charm of traditional home baking. Whether enjoyed with coffee or tea, this cake delivers a deliciously satisfying experience in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines simplicity with rich, comforting flavors. The sour cream in the batter adds a pleasant tang and keeps the cake moist, while the cinnamon sugar swirl brings a warm sweetness throughout. It’s easy to prepare, uses pantry staples, and works beautifully for both casual and special occasions. Make it in a 9×13-inch pan for a rustic treat or a bundt pan for an elegant presentation.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

all-purpose flour
baking powder
baking soda
salt
unsalted butter, softened
granulated sugar
large eggs
vanilla extract
sour cream (or buttermilk)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl & Topping:

brown sugar, packed
cinnamon
chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Directions

1. Prep the Batter

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or bundt pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Blend in the sour cream until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

2. Make the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon until combined.

3. Assemble & Bake

Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter.
Add the remaining batter on top and spread it evenly.
Sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top.
Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter.
Top with chopped nuts if using.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This coffee cake yields approximately 12 servings.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 35–40 minutes
Cooling Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes

Variations

Nut-Free Version: Simply omit the chopped nuts for a smoother texture.
Bundt Cake Style: Use a greased and floured bundt pan for a more elegant presentation.
Add a Glaze: Drizzle a simple vanilla or cream cheese glaze over the top for added sweetness.
Fruit Twist: Add a layer of thinly sliced apples or pears between the batter and cinnamon sugar.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon sugar mixture for deeper flavor.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this coffee cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake it the day before and store it covered at room temperature or refrigerate overnight.

Can I use buttermilk instead of sour cream?

Yes, buttermilk works well and adds a slightly tangier flavor.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is done.

Can I freeze this coffee cake?

Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.

What’s the best way to swirl the cinnamon sugar?

Use a butter knife or toothpick and gently move it through the batter in a figure-eight motion to distribute the swirl.

Can I add fruit to this recipe?

Absolutely. Sliced apples, pears, or even blueberries can be layered in with the cinnamon sugar.

Is it okay to use salted butter?

You can, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to ¼ teaspoon to balance flavors.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in two 9×13-inch pans or one half-sheet pan.

What kind of nuts work best in this cake?

Chopped pecans and walnuts are traditional, but almonds can also be used for a slightly different flavor.

How do I keep the cake moist?

Make sure not to overbake and store it properly in an airtight container.

Conclusion

This Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake is a timeless and comforting treat that blends simplicity with irresistible flavor. With its soft crumb and sweet cinnamon swirl, it’s perfect for any occasion—from weekend brunches to casual get-togethers. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Serve it warm with your favorite cup of coffee or tea for a truly delightful experience.

Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake

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Author: Olivia
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This old-fashioned Amish coffee cake is ultra-moist and buttery with a sweet cinnamon sugar swirl and optional crunchy nuts. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon coffee break, it brings comfort and warmth with every bite.

Instructions

1. Prep the Batter

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or bundt pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy (about 2 minutes).
Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
Mix in sour cream until smooth.
Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.

2. Make the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl

In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon.

3. Assemble & Bake

Spread half the batter in the prepared dish.
Sprinkle with half the cinnamon sugar mix.
Add remaining batter and top with the rest of the cinnamon sugar.
Swirl gently with a knife or toothpick.
Sprinkle with nuts if using.
Bake 35–40 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool slightly before serving.

Notes

For added moisture, use buttermilk instead of sour cream.

Swap nuts for chocolate chips for a twist.

Store leftovers tightly covered at room temp for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Method: Baking