There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the smell of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen on a chilly morning. Whether you’re sipping on a steaming cup of coffee as the sun rises or setting the table for a laid-back brunch with friends, this Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake is the perfect treat to bring warmth and comfort to any occasion.
Inspired by the simplicity and wholesome flavors of Amish baking, this cake blends tradition with indulgence. The tender crumb, buttery base, and rich cinnamon swirl make it a beloved recipe you’ll find yourself returning to, again and again. Whether you’re baking for a cozy weekend breakfast, a holiday gathering, or just a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, this coffee cake is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Coffee Cake
This recipe isn’t just another cinnamon cake—it’s a delightful fusion of old-world Amish charm and modern-day comfort baking. Here’s why you should try it today:
- Simple pantry ingredients – No fancy ingredients or trips to the specialty store.
- Moist and flavorful – The combination of butter, eggs, and milk creates a rich, moist texture.
- Irresistible cinnamon swirl – The sweet cinnamon-sugar layer offers a cozy, aromatic depth of flavor.
- Perfect for any time of day – Great for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or even a midnight snack.
- Easy to customize – Add walnuts for a nutty crunch or drizzle with a glaze for extra sweetness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All ingredients are likely already in your pantry or fridge, making this recipe convenient and budget-friendly.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – The structural base of the cake.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps the cake brown beautifully.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – For richness and moisture.
- 1 cup milk – Gives the cake a light, tender texture.
- 2 large eggs – Essential for binding and structure.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder – Leavening agent that ensures a nice rise.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Infuses the batter with cozy spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Cinnamon Swirl Topping:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed – Offers a caramel-like sweetness and contrast.
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional) – Adds crunch and a nutty flavor.
Step-by-Step Directions
Follow these straightforward steps to create your delicious Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake:
1. Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step helps incorporate air for a soft cake texture.
3. Add the Eggs and Vanilla
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract for a warm, inviting aroma.
4. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Stir until just combined—do not overmix.
5. Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and walnuts (if using). This mixture forms the signature cinnamon swirl.
6. Layer and Swirl
- Pour half of the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter.
- Pour the remaining batter on top and smooth it out.
- Finish with the remaining cinnamon sugar topping.
- Using a knife, gently swirl the layers to create a marbled effect.
7. Bake to Perfection
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
While this coffee cake is undeniably delicious on its own, here are a few ideas to elevate your serving experience:
- With a hot beverage – Pair with freshly brewed coffee, chai, or a warm mug of apple cider.
- With a drizzle – Add a simple powdered sugar glaze or a vanilla cream drizzle for extra indulgence.
- With fruit – Serve alongside fresh berries or a compote for a refreshing twist.
- As a dessert – Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting after-dinner treat.
Baking Tips & Tricks
Want to make sure your coffee cake comes out perfect every time? Follow these tips:
- Room temperature ingredients – Let your butter, milk, and eggs come to room temp for better mixing and even baking.
- Don’t overmix the batter – This helps keep your cake light and fluffy.
- Customize the swirl – Swap walnuts for pecans or add a dash of nutmeg or cardamom for an extra spice kick.
- Test for doneness – Every oven is different, so start checking at 30 minutes. The top should be golden, and the center should spring back slightly when touched.
Make It Ahead & Storage
Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake is a great make-ahead recipe. Here’s how to store it:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Stays fresh for up to 5 days when refrigerated.
- Freezer-Friendly: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight or warm in the microwave before serving.
This makes it an ideal option for meal prep, holiday baking, or unexpected guests.
FAQs
Is coffee included in this coffee cake?
No, despite the name, there’s no actual coffee in the recipe. “Coffee cake” simply refers to a sweet cake intended to be enjoyed with coffee or tea.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour, and ensure your baking powder and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I use oil instead of butter?
You can substitute 1/2 cup of neutral oil (like canola or vegetable oil) for the butter, but the flavor and texture may be slightly different.
How can I make it dairy-free?
Use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and substitute butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil.
Why This Recipe Works: The Amish Baking Philosophy
At the heart of Amish cooking is a commitment to honest, hearty, and handmade meals. This coffee cake is no exception. It represents everything comforting and timeless about Amish cuisine: straightforward techniques, real ingredients, and a focus on flavor over fuss.
The result? A recipe that doesn’t need frosting or fancy add-ins to stand out. It’s all about the quality of the ingredients and the balance of sweetness and spice. One bite and you’ll understand why this cake has stood the test of time in countless family kitchens.
Share the Joy
Food is meant to be shared—and this coffee cake is no different. It’s the kind of treat you make for neighbors, bring to potlucks, or bake with your kids on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
If you try this recipe and love it, consider:
- Sharing it on social media and tagging your photos with #CozyKitchenVibes or #AmishCoffeeCake
- Leaving a comment below to let others know how it turned out
- Pinning it to your favorite baking board on Pinterest
Final Thoughts
Few things are as comforting as the aroma of cinnamon and the first bite of a freshly baked coffee cake. This Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake delivers all of that and more—with its moist, buttery base and perfectly sweet swirl, it’s a treat that works for any season, any reason.
So preheat your oven, dust off that 9×13 pan, and let this beloved recipe bring a little more joy, warmth, and deliciousness into your home.