Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake -

There’s something about the aroma of cinnamon and sugar baking in the oven that instantly wraps you in comfort. This Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake is the kind of treat that makes you want to pause everything, pour a warm cup of coffee, and soak up every buttery bite. With its tender crumb, golden top, and sweet cinnamon swirl running through the center, it’s a cozy delight perfect for slow mornings or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.

Behind the Recipe

This coffee cake was born out of one of those simple Sunday mornings when I wanted to bake something warm and satisfying without too much fuss. Inspired by traditional Amish baking, known for its humble ingredients and heartwarming flavors, this recipe captures that rustic homemade charm with every forkful. It’s the kind of cake that doesn’t need fancy frosting or complicated steps, just a little love and a whole lot of cinnamon.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Amish recipes are deeply rooted in simplicity and practicality. Their cakes, pies, and breads often feature pantry staples like flour, sugar, eggs, and butter. Coffee cake, though not always served with coffee, was a staple in many Amish kitchens as a breakfast or brunch offering. The cinnamon sugar layer was a classic way to add a punch of flavor without needing any rich fillings or toppings. This particular version keeps that spirit alive, delivering flavor and texture with humble ingredients.

Why You’ll Love Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake

This cake checks all the boxes for a crowd-pleasing, no-fuss bake that’s full of flavor.

Versatile: Serve it at brunch, pack it in a lunchbox, or bring it to potlucks. It fits right in anywhere.
Budget-Friendly: Made with basic pantry ingredients, no expensive trips to the store needed.
Quick and Easy: Simple mixing, no fancy equipment, and bakes in under an hour.
Customizable: Add a touch of nutmeg, swap the glaze for a crumb topping, or stir in some chopped nuts.
Crowd-Pleasing: The warm cinnamon aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture are universally loved.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it the night before and it’s even better the next day.
Great for Leftovers: Stays moist for days, and you can reheat slices for that fresh-baked feel.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Sometimes it’s the small things that make a big difference. Here are a few secrets to make your coffee cake unforgettable:

Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
Don’t overmix after adding the flour, just mix until combined to keep the crumb tender.
Line your baking pan with parchment for easier lifting and cleaner slices.
Let the cake cool slightly before drizzling the glaze so it sets just right.
For extra depth, toast your cinnamon for 30 seconds before mixing it with sugar.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To keep things easy and stress-free, gather these kitchen essentials before you begin:

Mixing Bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients separately.
Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar a breeze.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy matters when baking.
9×13 Baking Dish: The perfect size for this comforting cake.
Rubber Spatula: Helps get every last bit of batter into the pan.

Ingredients in Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake

This recipe is all about balance. Each ingredient has a job to do, and together they create magic.

All-Purpose Flour: 3 cups
Gives the cake structure and softness.
Granulated Sugar: 1 ½ cups
Sweetens the batter and creates a golden crust.
Unsalted Butter: ¾ cup (softened)
Adds richness and moisture throughout the cake.
Eggs: 3 large
Bind the ingredients together and give the cake lift.
Sour Cream: 1 cup
Keeps the cake incredibly moist with a subtle tang.
Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons
Brings a warm, aromatic depth to the flavor.
Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons
Leavens the cake so it rises perfectly.
Baking Soda: ½ teaspoon
Works with sour cream to give extra lift.
Salt: ½ teaspoon
Enhances all the other flavors.
Brown Sugar: ¾ cup (for swirl)
Adds a deep, caramelized sweetness.
Ground Cinnamon: 2 tablespoons (for swirl)
The star of the show, gives that warm, cozy bite.
Powdered Sugar: 1 cup (for glaze)
Forms the simple, sweet finishing drizzle.
Milk: 2–3 tablespoons (for glaze)
Loosens the powdered sugar to the perfect drizzle consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

Don’t worry if you’re out of something. Here’s how to make it work:

Sour Cream: Plain Greek yogurt.
Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar or white sugar with a bit of molasses.
Butter: Margarine or plant-based butter if needed.
Milk: Almond, oat, or any non-dairy milk.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cinnamon: This spice brings a bold warmth that instantly feels nostalgic. It’s earthy, slightly sweet, and comforting.

Sour Cream: This one’s a game-changer. It creates an incredibly moist and tender crumb, richer than using milk alone.

Instructions for Making Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake

There’s no need to stress. We’re taking it one step at a time, and I promise the results will be worth it.

Preheat Your Equipment:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time. Mix in the sour cream and vanilla until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon to create the swirl mixture. Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over it, then add the remaining batter and smooth it out.
Assemble the Dish:
Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar through the batter. Don’t overdo it—just a few figure-eights across the pan.
Cook to Perfection:
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.
Finishing Touches:
Whisk powdered sugar with milk to make the glaze. Drizzle it generously over the warm cake.
Serve and Enjoy:
Slice into squares and serve warm or at room temperature with coffee or milk.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This cake hits all the right notes. The top is slightly crisp, the center has a soft, fluffy bite, and the swirl adds that signature sticky sweetness. The glaze finishes things off with a gentle sweetness that ties every bite together.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, these little nuggets will help you out:

Don’t overmix the batter once the flour goes in.
Use fresh baking powder for the best rise.
Let the cake cool slightly before glazing, so it doesn’t melt off completely.
Store leftovers tightly covered to keep them moist.

What to Avoid

We’ve all had those little hiccups in the kitchen. Here’s how to dodge the usual pitfalls:

Avoid using cold butter—it won’t cream properly.
Don’t skip the cinnamon swirl, it’s what makes this cake sing.
Resist overbaking, or the cake will dry out quickly.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 340

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This cake holds up beautifully if made a day in advance. Just let it cool completely, then cover tightly and store at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it in slices, wrapped well, for up to a month. Reheat in the microwave or oven until just warm.

How to Serve Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake

Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or chai latte for the ultimate comfort moment. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert, or serve with fresh berries for a breakfast treat. It’s a hit anytime of day.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftovers? Lucky you. Try this:

Toast a slice in a skillet with a little butter for a crisp edge.
Cube it and use as a base for a breakfast parfait.
Layer with whipped cream for a quick trifle dessert.

Additional Tips

To amp up the cinnamon flavor, you can sprinkle a bit more on top before baking. For added texture, toss in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts. Want to make it extra pretty? Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve it in the pan for a rustic feel or lift it out to slice neatly on a cake stand. A drizzle of glaze just before serving keeps it looking glossy and fresh. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds a final decorative flair.

Variations to Try

Apple Cinnamon: Stir in 1 cup of finely chopped apples.
Pumpkin Spice: Replace sour cream with pumpkin puree and add pumpkin pie spice.
Maple Glaze: Swap the milk in the glaze for maple syrup.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the swirl.
Chocolate Chip Swirl: Mix mini chocolate chips into the cinnamon sugar layer.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make this without sour cream?

A1: Yes, plain Greek yogurt works great as a substitute.

Q2: Can I freeze this cake?

A2: Absolutely. Just wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 1 month.

Q3: What kind of cinnamon is best?

A3: Ground Ceylon or Cassia cinnamon both work, depending on how bold you want the flavor.

Q4: Can I bake this in a different pan size?

A4: You can use two 8×8 pans or a large Bundt pan, just adjust baking time accordingly.

Q5: Is the glaze necessary?

A5: Not at all, but it adds a lovely touch of sweetness and shine.

Q6: Can I make it dairy-free?

A6: Yes, use plant-based butter and yogurt or milk alternatives.

Q7: Can I reduce the sugar?

A7: Slightly, but the cake relies on sugar for texture and moisture, so don’t cut too much.

Q8: How long will it stay fresh?

A8: It’s best within 3 days but can last longer if stored properly.

Q9: Can I add fruit?

A9: Absolutely, try berries or diced apples for a fruity twist.

Q10: Can kids help make this?

A10: Definitely. They’ll love swirling the cinnamon and drizzling the glaze.

Conclusion

This Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake is the kind of recipe you’ll want to bake again and again. With its warm spices, soft texture, and sweet glaze, it brings a comforting charm to any day. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or savor the leftovers later, trust me, it’s worth every bite.