Imagine the warm aroma of coffee cake filling your home. The scent of cinnamon and vanilla blends with the smell of coffee. It’s perfect for sharing moments with loved ones around the kitchen table.
For those who follow a gluten-free diet, making a tasty treat can seem hard. But, this easy gluten-free coffee cake recipe makes it simple. It’s a great way to enjoy gluten-free breakfast ideas that are both delicious and easy to make.
Let’s learn how to make this amazing dessert. We’ll make sure every slice is filled with love and flavor.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Gluten-Free Coffee Cake
Coffee cakes are a delightful treat often enjoyed during coffee breaks. They make for a comforting companion to your favorite brews. This gluten-free coffee cake version captures the essence of traditional recipes. It accommodates those with gluten sensitivities.
Its origins trace back to German immigrants in the United States. Such cakes are typically enjoyed without actual coffee in the batter.
You might be wondering what makes a homemade coffee cake gluten-free yet equally satisfying. The secret lies in choosing quality gluten-free flour options. This allows you to achieve a rich texture and delightful taste.
With the right ingredients, this gluten-free coffee cake recipe offers a scrumptious alternative. Everyone can enjoy it.
Prepare to indulge in a moist, flavorful cake. It proves gluten-free baking can be just as delightful. Whether you’re making this for a weekend brunch or a simple afternoon snack, your loved ones will appreciate the effort.

Key Ingredients for Your Coffee Cake
Making a tasty gluten-free coffee cake begins with picking the right ingredients. Knowing about gluten-free flours and the role of sour cream is key. Each part adds something special, making your baking better.
Gluten-Free Flour Options
Choosing the right gluten-free flour is crucial for your coffee cake. Here are some good choices:
- Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 Baking Flour – This mix is great for all-purpose use, making it easy to swap in recipes.
- Almond Flour – It brings a nutty taste and keeps the cake moist. Its fat content makes it tender.
- Sorghum Flour – It has a mild flavor and boosts the cake’s taste.
Mixing these flours will give you a cake that’s both tasty and has the right texture, just like the traditional kind.
Importance of Sour Cream
Sour cream is essential for a moist and rich coffee cake. It adds moisture and a slight tang, balancing the sweetness. Using gluten-free sour cream offers:
- Increased tenderness – Sour cream’s fats make the cake softer.
- Enhanced flavor – Its tangy taste complements the sweetness, creating a perfect balance.
- Improved shelf life – Cakes with sour cream stay fresh longer than those without.
By using these ingredients, you can make a gluten-free coffee cake that’s delicious for everyone.

Step-by-Step Gluten Free Coffee Cake Recipe
Making a tasty gluten free coffee cake starts with getting ready. Follow these steps to mix the batter and make the cinnamon streusel topping. This will make your baking journey fun and rewarding.
Preparing the Batter
First, collect your ingredients. You’ll need gluten-free flour, sugars, baking powder, baking soda, and spices. Here’s a quick list of what you need:
- 2 cups gluten-free flour blend
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons gluten-free vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Start by mixing the dry ingredients in one bowl. In another, mix the wet ingredients, including sour cream for extra richness. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ones until everything is well mixed. Make sure the batter is smooth and not too thick, so the cake turns out light and fluffy.
Making the Cinnamon Streusel Topping
The cinnamon streusel topping gives your cake a nice crunch and flavor. You’ll need:
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 ⅓ cups gluten-free flour blend
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Start by mixing the sugars and cinnamon in a bowl. Then, add the melted butter and gluten-free flour until it’s crumbly. For the best results, chill the topping for 10-15 minutes before adding it to the batter. This makes the topping crispy when baked.

After adding the streusel topping, pour the batter into a 9-inch round or loaf pan. Bake at 350º F for 30-35 minutes. Check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean. Let the cake cool for 20 minutes before slicing it into big pieces.
Tips for Perfect Gluten-Free Baking
Gluten-free baking can be a fun adventure. Start by choosing a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum for the best texture. Use the right mixing techniques to avoid gummy textures and get a moist, fluffy coffee cake.
Choosing the Right Gluten-Free Flour Blend
Not all gluten-free flours are the same. Look for a blend with whole grains and starches. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill offer great options. A blend with xanthan gum will help your cake rise better and taste better.
Mixing Techniques to Avoid Gummy Cakes
Mixing is key in gluten-free baking. Overmixing can make cakes dense and gummy. Here are some tips to help:
- Mix dry ingredients separately before adding them to wet ingredients.
- Fold the batter gently instead of whisking hard.
- Let the batter rest for a bit to soak up moisture.
Don’t overwork the ingredients. A slightly lumpy batter is better. It makes your gluten-free coffee cake light and tender.
Gluten-Free Flour Blend | Main Ingredients | Best Uses |
---|---|---|
Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour | Brown rice flour, sweet white rice flour, potato starch | Cakes, cookies, pancakes |
King Arthur Gluten-Free Measure for Measure Flour | Whole grain brown rice flour, tapioca starch, potato starch | All-purpose baking |
Cup4Cup Gluten-Free Flour | White rice flour, cornstarch, milk powder | Pies, pastries |
Follow these tips and choose the right flour blend. Your gluten-free baking will be a success. Try different recipes and soon you’ll be a pro at gluten-free baking.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Coffee Cake
After baking your gluten-free coffee cake, it’s important to store it right. This keeps it fresh and tasty for longer. Here’s how to keep your cake in top condition.
How to Properly Store Your Coffee Cake
Store your coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate it. This way, it stays good for up to 5 days. Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it moist and flavorful.
Freezing Tips for Long-Term Enjoyment
To freeze your gluten-free coffee cake, let it cool first. Then, cut it into slices for easy thawing later. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then foil for the best results. This keeps your cake fresh for up to 2 months.
To thaw, refrigerate the slices overnight. Or, microwave them briefly at 50% power. This helps keep the cake’s texture just right.
Storage Method | Duration |
---|---|
Room Temperature (airtight container) | Up to 3 days |
Refrigerated | Up to 5 days |
Frozen | Up to 2 months |
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Enjoying gluten-free coffee cake is even better with the right drinks and serving ideas. It’s a perfect mix of breakfast and dessert. This makes it easy to add to your meal plans. Try pairing it with drinks and sides to impress your guests.
Best Drinks to Serve with Coffee Cake
Choose drinks that match the coffee cake’s sweet taste. Here are some great drinks to serve with coffee cake:
- Freshly brewed coffee
- Aromatic herbal tea
- Vanilla-flavored plant-based milk for a creamy touch
- Golden turmeric lattes for a unique twist
These drinks offer something for everyone. They make your brunch more enjoyable. Guests will love the variety of hot and cold drinks.
Creative Serving Ideas for Brunch
Adding gluten free breakfast ideas to your brunch makes it exciting. Here are some brunch serving ideas that feature coffee cake:
- Serve individual coffee cake muffins for easy portion control
- Combine coffee cake with plant-based yogurt, granola, and fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or citrus fruits
- Enhance with a dollop of coconut whipped cream or a scoop of banana nice cream for added creaminess
- Elevate the experience with indulgent toppings like date caramel or chocolate sauce
- Introduce savory elements such as spicy roasted chickpeas or a vegan quiche to contrast with the sweetness
Use decorative platters and colorful tableware for a great look. Add fresh flowers or herbs for a cozy feel. Your brunch will be a hit.
Variations on the Traditional Coffee Cake
Exploring different coffee cake variations lets you tailor this treat to your liking. Adding fruits or nuts in coffee cake boosts flavor and texture. For those with dietary restrictions, dairy-free options make it inclusive for all.
Adding Fruits or Nuts for Flavor
Introducing new ingredients can make your coffee cake even better. Chopped apples add a fruity twist, while blueberries, cranberries, or bananas offer unique flavors. For a nutty taste, try adding sliced almonds or chopped walnuts to the streusel topping.
These additions not only taste great but also add a nice texture.
Dairy-Free Options for the Recipe
For a dairy-free gluten free cake, swap out traditional dairy for alternatives. Coconut yogurt or oat milk can replace buttermilk or sour cream. Just remember to adjust the amounts, as dairy-free versions might change texture and taste slightly.
This flexibility means everyone can enjoy a delicious coffee cake, no matter their dietary needs.
Why This is the Best Gluten-Free Coffee Cake
This gluten-free coffee cake is a hit because of its amazing flavors and textures. It’s moist and flavorful, making it perfect for family gatherings and breakfasts. The recipe is easy to follow, so everyone can enjoy it, gluten sensitivities or not.
Flavorful and Moist Texture
The secret to this cake’s success is its rich ingredients. A Duncan Hines gluten-free yellow cake mix is the base, paired with instant vanilla pudding. This mix creates a moist and flavorful cake. The cinnamon topping adds a delightful twist, making each bite a treat.
Baking at 350°F for 25-35 minutes ensures the cake is just right. It’s a perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Family-Friendly and Easy Recipe
This cake is loved by everyone, not just those on gluten-free diets. It’s easy to make, with a quick mix of ingredients in about 5 1/2 minutes. The result is a cake that serves 12, with each slice having 359 calories.
Its simplicity makes it a favorite for quick treats. It’s perfect for any day when you want something delicious and easy.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Duncan Hines gluten-free yellow cake mix | 1 box |
Instant vanilla pudding | 1/2 cup |
Brown sugar for topping | 1 cup |
Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
Cinnamon for topping | 1 tablespoon |
Baking temperature | 350°F |
Recommended baking time | 25-35 minutes |
Additional Gluten Free Desserts to Try
After trying your gluten-free coffee cake, you might want to try more gluten-free desserts. There’s a wide world of gluten-free baking beyond cakes. Here are some tasty options to check out.
Other Gluten-Free Cake Recipes
If you liked the coffee cake, try other gluten-free cakes. Look for recipes with similar flavors or new ingredients. Here are a few ideas:
- Gluten-Free Chocolate Cake: This cake is rich in cocoa and uses King Arthur Measure for Measure flour. It’s perfect for chocolate fans.
- Vanilla Bean Gluten-Free Cake: It’s moist and has a hint of vanilla. Great for any celebration.
- Lemon Almond Cake: It’s a refreshing mix of citrus zest and almond flour. It’s light and flavorful.
Exploring Gluten-Free Baking Beyond Cake
Try gluten-free baking with muffins, cookies, and bars. These treats can add variety to your desserts:
- Blueberry Muffins: These gluten-free muffins are perfect for breakfast or a snack. They’re soft and full of fruit flavor.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Made with gluten-free flour, these cookies are chewy and delicious.
- Gluten-Free Brownies: Enjoy fudgy brownies with rich flavors and a chewy texture.
Exploring these gluten-free desserts will help you become more confident in gluten-free baking. Each new recipe brings new flavors and textures to your kitchen.
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Conclusion
To make gluten-free baking a success, focus on the quality of your ingredients. This summary of gluten-free coffee cake shows how to get the perfect mix of flavors and textures. It’s a treat that everyone can enjoy, no matter their dietary needs.
Whether it’s for a family event or a simple snack, this coffee cake is perfect for any time. Using Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour and dairy-free buttermilk makes it moist and tasty. With a few tweaks, you can make a dessert that’s loved by all.
Learning to make this gluten-free coffee cake opens the door to more gluten-free baking adventures. Start your gluten-free baking journey and discover a world of tasty desserts that everyone can share!
FAQ
What makes a coffee cake gluten-free?
A gluten-free coffee cake uses special flours instead of wheat. Flours like Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 Baking Flour or almond flour are used.
Can I use regular sour cream in a gluten-free coffee cake?
Yes, you can use regular sour cream. Just make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free too.
How can I keep my gluten-free coffee cake moist?
To keep it moist, use sour cream and don’t overmix the batter. This helps a lot.
What are some gluten-free flour options for baking?
Good options include almond flour, almond meal, and sorghum flour. They make your cake taste better and feel softer.
How do I create a streusel topping for my coffee cake?
Mix gluten-free flour, cinnamon, butter (or a dairy-free version), and sugar. Then, sprinkle it on top before baking.
How should I store leftover gluten-free coffee cake?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. Or, refrigerate it for longer.
Can I freeze gluten-free coffee cake?
Yes, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. It lasts up to two months.
What are some good beverages to pair with coffee cake?
Pair it with coffee, tea, or a fruit-infused drink. It’s a perfect match.
Is it possible to make a dairy-free gluten-free coffee cake?
Absolutely! Use coconut or almond milk and dairy-free butter instead of regular ingredients.
What variations can I try in my gluten-free coffee cake?
Add fruits like blueberries or nuts for extra taste and texture. It makes the cake even better.
Why is this gluten-free coffee cake considered the best?
It’s the best because of its rich flavors, moist texture, and simple recipe. It’s loved by everyone.