When we need a quick and delicious coffee cake that delivers bakery-quality results without the fuss, Bisquick coffee cake becomes our go-to recipe. This beloved breakfast treat transforms the convenience of Bisquick mix into something truly special – a tender, moist cake with that perfect crumbly streusel topping we all crave.
We love how this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a golden coffee cake that fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and vanilla. It’s the kind of cake that makes weekend mornings feel extra special and turns ordinary coffee breaks into memorable moments.
What makes this Bisquick coffee cake recipe so appealing is its foolproof nature. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you can’t go wrong with this simple yet satisfying treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack.
Ingredients
We gather simple pantry staples to create this bakery-style coffee cake. Our ingredient list divides into three components for the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
For the Coffee Cake
- 2 cups Bisquick Original Pancake & Baking Mix
- 2/3 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Streusel Topping
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
For the Glaze (Optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Equipment Needed
Making our delicious Bisquick coffee cake requires basic kitchen equipment that most home bakers already have on hand. We’ve organized the essential tools to help you prepare this delightful treat efficiently and achieve professional results.
Essential Baking Equipment:
- Baking pan – We recommend a 9-inch round, 8-inch square, or 9×13-inch rectangular pan depending on your preferred serving size
- Mixing bowls – Both standard and large sizes work best for combining batter and preparing the streusel topping separately
- Electric mixer or whisk – Either option effectively combines ingredients for smooth, lump-free batter
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time
- Spatula or wooden spoon – Perfect for gentle folding and spreading techniques
Preparation and Finishing Tools:
- Oven – Preheated to 350°F (175°C) for optimal baking temperature
- Toothpick or cake tester – Essential for checking doneness without overbaking
- Wire rack – Allows proper air circulation during the cooling process
- Knife or offset spatula – Useful for spreading batter evenly and creating clean slices
We find that having all equipment ready before starting makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable. The beauty of this Bisquick coffee cake lies in its simplicity, requiring no specialized equipment beyond standard kitchen tools. Most importantly, ensure your baking pan is properly greased to prevent sticking and guarantee easy removal of your finished coffee cake.
Instructions
Follow these straightforward steps to create your perfect Bisquick coffee cake. Each stage builds upon the previous one to deliver that bakery-quality texture and flavor we all crave.
Prep the Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F for optimal baking results. Generously grease your chosen baking pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. We recommend using parchment paper for extra insurance against stubborn cake removal. Position your oven rack in the center to ensure even heat distribution throughout the baking process.
Make the Streusel Topping
Combine the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a medium mixing bowl. Cut the cold butter into small cubes and add to the dry ingredients. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the mixture until large crumbs form. The texture should resemble coarse breadcrumbs with some larger butter pieces visible. Add chopped nuts if desired for extra crunch and flavor.
Prepare the Coffee Cake Batter
Pour the Bisquick mix into a large mixing bowl and create a well in the center. Whisk together the milk, sugar, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until smooth. Add the wet ingredients to the Bisquick mix and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing as this can result in a tough cake texture. The batter will appear thick and slightly sticky.
Assemble the Coffee Cake
Spread the coffee cake batter evenly into your prepared baking pan using a spatula. Smooth the surface gently to create an even layer. Sprinkle the streusel topping uniformly over the entire surface of the batter. Press the topping lightly into the batter to help it adhere during baking.
Bake the Coffee Cake
Place the assembled coffee cake in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. The toothpick should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. The top should appear golden brown and the streusel should look set and lightly crispy.
Make the Glaze
Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker coating. The glaze should drizzle easily from a spoon but not be too runny.
Cool and Serve
Allow the coffee cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before adding the glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake using a spoon or small whisk. Let the cake cool completely for cleaner slicing or serve warm for a comforting treat. Cut into squares or wedges and serve alongside your favorite morning coffee or afternoon tea.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Busy mornings become effortless when we prepare our Bisquick coffee cake ahead of time. We’ve perfected two reliable methods that maintain the cake’s signature texture and flavor while accommodating different schedules.
Prepare and Refrigerate Method
We recommend mixing the coffee cake batter and streusel topping separately the night before baking. Store the batter in our greased baking pan and cover tightly with plastic wrap. The streusel topping should be kept in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator. Both components stay fresh overnight and maintain their quality for optimal results.
When morning arrives, we simply remove both from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for 15 minutes. Sprinkle the streusel over the batter and bake according to our original instructions. This method preserves the cake’s tender crumb while ensuring the streusel remains perfectly crumbly.
Bake and Store Method
Our second approach involves baking the complete coffee cake and storing it properly for later enjoyment. Once cooled completely, we store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for 2 to 3 days. Refrigerator storage extends freshness up to one week when wrapped tightly.
For longer storage periods, we freeze the coffee cake for up to three months. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags for best results. Thaw frozen pieces at room temperature for 30 minutes or warm them in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds.
Timing Considerations
| Storage Method | Duration | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 2-3 days | Airtight container |
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week | Tightly wrapped |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Double wrapped |
Morning preparation becomes seamless when we follow these make ahead strategies. Our coffee cake maintains its bakery quality texture whether prepared fresh or stored using these proven methods.
Storage Tips
Proper storage ensures our Bisquick coffee cake maintains its tender texture and delicious flavor for several days. We recommend following these exact storage methods based on when you plan to enjoy your cake.
Room Temperature Storage
Our coffee cake stays fresh at room temperature for 2 to 3 days when properly covered. We wrap the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss. Keep the wrapped cake away from direct sunlight and heat sources to maintain optimal texture and prevent drying out.
Refrigeration Storage
Refrigeration extends the cake’s freshness for 5 to 7 days when stored correctly. We place the cake in an airtight container or wrap it securely in plastic wrap before refrigerating. Before serving refrigerated slices we recommend reheating them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore the cake’s soft texture and enhance the flavors.
| Storage Method | Duration | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 2-3 days | Away from heat sources |
| Refrigeration | 5-7 days | Standard refrigerator temperature |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | 0°F or below |
Freezer Storage
We can freeze our Bisquick coffee cake for up to 3 months while maintaining quality. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place it in a freezer bag with an airtight container for extra protection. When ready to serve we thaw the cake at room temperature or reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15 to 30 seconds for immediate enjoyment.
Our storage methods preserve the cake’s signature moist crumb and ensure the streusel topping maintains its delightful texture regardless of which storage option we choose.
Recipe Variations
Our basic Bisquick coffee cake serves as the perfect foundation for countless delicious variations. These popular adaptations transform our classic recipe into exciting new flavors that satisfy different tastes and occasions.
Blueberry Bisquick Coffee Cake
We love incorporating fresh or frozen blueberries into our coffee cake batter for a burst of fruity sweetness. Add 1 cup of blueberries to the batter after mixing the wet and dry ingredients together. The natural sweetness of the blueberries complements our traditional streusel topping beautifully. Fresh berries work best during peak season while frozen blueberries provide consistent results year round. Gently fold the blueberries into the batter to prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking. This variation creates beautiful purple streaks throughout the cake and adds extra moisture to each bite.
Cinnamon Apple Coffee Cake
Transform our basic recipe by adding 1 cup of diced apples and an extra teaspoon of cinnamon to create this warm and comforting variation. We recommend using tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor balance. The apple pieces add natural moisture and sweetness while the additional cinnamon creates that cozy bakery aroma we all crave. Peel and dice the apples into small ¼ inch pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the batter. This variation pairs exceptionally well with autumn mornings and fills our kitchen with irresistible spiced apple scents.
Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake
Chocolate lovers will adore this indulgent variation that includes ¾ cup of chocolate chips folded into our standard batter. We prefer using mini chocolate chips as they distribute more evenly throughout the cake. The sweetness of the chocolate creates a delightful contrast with our crumbly streusel topping. Add half the chocolate chips to the batter and sprinkle the remaining chips over the streusel topping before baking. This creates chocolate surprises in every layer of the cake. The melted chocolate chips create pockets of rich flavor that make this variation perfect for dessert or special occasions.
Troubleshooting Tips
Even the most straightforward Bisquick coffee cake recipe can present challenges, but we’ve gathered answers to the most common issues bakers encounter.
Dense or Heavy Cake Texture
Overmixing ranks as the primary culprit behind dense coffee cake. We recommend mixing the batter just until the ingredients combine, leaving some small lumps rather than achieving a completely smooth mixture. The Bisquick mix contains leavening agents that work best when handled gently, so stop stirring as soon as you no longer see dry flour.
Dry or Crumbly Results
Improper measuring of Bisquick mix leads to dry baked goods more often than any other factor. We suggest scooping the mix lightly into your measuring cup without packing it down, then leveling with a knife. Packed Bisquick creates an imbalance in the flour to liquid ratio, resulting in a cake that lacks moisture.
Uneven Baking or Raw Center
Oven temperature accuracy plays a crucial role in achieving consistent results. We always preheat our oven to the specified temperature (375°F or 400°F depending on your chosen recipe) and verify doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center. The toothpick should emerge with just a few moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.
Streusel Topping Issues
Cold butter creates the perfect crumbly streusel texture we desire. Room temperature or melted butter will result in a topping that either disappears into the cake or becomes too hard. We keep our butter in the refrigerator until ready to use, then cut it into small pieces for easier incorporation.
Storage Problems
Proper storage maintains the cake’s tender texture for days. We store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or transfer it to an airtight container for refrigerator storage lasting 5 to 7 days. For longer preservation, we wrap individual portions tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
| Storage Method | Duration | Best Practices |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 2-3 days | Tightly wrapped |
| Refrigerator | 5-7 days | Airtight container |
| Freezer | 3 months | Wrapped securely |
Glaze Consistency Problems
Achieving the right glaze consistency requires the proper powdered sugar to liquid ratio. We start with less milk than the recipe calls for, then gradually add more until the glaze reaches a drizzling consistency. Too thick means adding milk by the teaspoon; too thin requires additional powdered sugar.
Conclusion
This Bisquick coffee cake recipe truly delivers on its promise of bakery-quality results with minimal effort. We’ve shown you how versatile this recipe can be – from the classic version to delicious variations like blueberry and chocolate chip.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and reliability. With just basic pantry ingredients and standard kitchen equipment you’ll have a delicious homemade coffee cake ready in 30 minutes.
Whether you’re planning a special weekend breakfast or need a quick treat for unexpected guests this Bisquick coffee cake won’t disappoint. The combination of tender cake and crumbly streusel topping creates the perfect balance that’ll keep everyone coming back for more.
Now it’s time to preheat that oven and experience the wonderful aroma of cinnamon and vanilla filling your kitchen!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make Bisquick coffee cake?
This Bisquick coffee cake can be prepared and baked in just 30 minutes. The actual baking time is 25-30 minutes at 375°F, with minimal prep time needed to mix the batter and streusel topping. It’s perfect for quick breakfast treats or last-minute desserts.
Can I make Bisquick coffee cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter and streusel topping the night before and store them separately in the refrigerator. Alternatively, bake the entire cake in advance and store it properly. Both methods maintain the cake’s signature texture and flavor for busy mornings.
How should I store leftover Bisquick coffee cake?
Store the coffee cake tightly wrapped at room temperature for 2-3 days, or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5-7 days. For longer storage, wrap securely and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat refrigerated slices in the microwave to restore softness.
What equipment do I need to make this coffee cake?
You’ll need basic baking tools: a 9-inch round, 8-inch square, or 9×13-inch baking pan, mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, measuring cups and spoons, and a spatula. Most home bakers already have these standard kitchen items – no specialized equipment required.
What are some popular variations of Bisquick coffee cake?
Popular variations include Blueberry Coffee Cake with fresh or frozen blueberries, Cinnamon Apple Coffee Cake with diced apples and extra cinnamon, and Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake with mini chocolate chips. Each variation maintains the basic recipe structure while adding unique flavors.
Why is my Bisquick coffee cake dense or dry?
Dense cake usually results from overmixing the batter, while dryness often comes from incorrect Bisquick measurements or overbaking. Mix ingredients just until combined, measure accurately, and check doneness with a toothpick. Ensure your oven temperature is accurate for even baking.
Do I need to use the glaze on the coffee cake?
The glaze is completely optional. The coffee cake is delicious on its own with just the streusel topping. If you choose to add glaze, mix powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt, then drizzle over the cooled cake for extra sweetness.
