Cinnamon Pecan Coffee Cake Recipe

If you’re searching for that perfect blend of cozy spices and nutty crunch in a breakfast or brunch treat, this Cinnamon Pecan Coffee Cake Recipe will absolutely steal your heart. Imagine waking up to a golden, tender crumb laden with sweet cinnamon swirls and toasted pecans, crowned by a buttery caramelized drizzle that creates a slightly crisp top. It’s the kind of coffee cake that feels like a warm hug on a plate, ideal for sharing with friends or savoring during a quiet moment with your morning cup. Once you try this Cinnamon Pecan Coffee Cake Recipe, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire, bringing smiles and a little bit of magic to your table every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Cinnamon Pecan Coffee Cake Recipe is in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a vital role in delivering fabulous flavor and texture. From the rich pecans adding crunch, to the cinnamon infusing warmth, every component is essential.

• Light brown sugar: Adds sweetness with a hint of molasses, perfect for the cinnamon-pecan filling and topping.
• Chopped pecans: Bring buttery crunch and a toasty note that elevates the cake’s texture.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice providing warm, fragrant swirls throughout the cake.
• Melted butter: Used in the topping to create that irresistible caramelized crust.
• Softened butter: Creamed with sugar for the tender, rich cake base.
• Granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and helps with the cake’s light, fluffy crumb.
• Large eggs: Give structure and moisture while enriching the cake.
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor and a subtle sweetness enhancement.
• Flour: Provides the body of the cake; measuring carefully ensures the right tender texture.
• Baking powder: The leavening agent that helps the cake rise beautifully.
• Baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to promote a tender crumb and proper rise.
• Salt: Amplifies all the sweet and nutty flavors perfectly.
• Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang, keeping the cake wonderfully soft and flavorful.

How to Make Cinnamon Pecan Coffee Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch glass or ceramic baking dish. Getting your ingredients out and ready to go sets you up for smooth, stress-free baking — the best starts lead to the best cakes!

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Pecan Filling

Mix the brown sugar, chopped pecans, and ground cinnamon in a bowl until well combined. This mixture will make gorgeous pockets of cinnamon-sweet nutty goodness inside the cake, giving every bite that exciting texture and flavor contrast.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. Creaming is crucial since it adds air to the batter, making your cake tender and airy rather than dense.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated, then mix in the vanilla extract. These ingredients add richness and moisture, binding everything together beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients and Alternate with Buttermilk

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Now, add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture in about three batches, alternating with the buttermilk—start and end with flour. Be mindful not to overmix; stop as soon as there are no flour streaks to keep your coffee cake delightfully soft.

Step 6: Assemble the Layers

Spoon half of the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon pecan filling over this layer. Repeat with the remaining batter and top with the rest of the filling. This layering creates a scrumptious swirl effect and allows the cinnamon pecan flavor to shine through every slice.

Step 7: Add the Butter Drizzle

Drizzle the ¼ cup of melted butter evenly over the top of the assembled cake. This step is pure magic — the butter melts into the filling as the cake bakes, creating a crisp, caramelized topping that is irresistible.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Place the cake in the oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If your cake is browning too fast, tent it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 20 to 30 minutes. This resting period allows it to set so you can cut perfect slices. Whether warm or at room temperature, this cake is delightful, especially enjoyed with a cup of coffee or a dollop of whipped cream.

How to Serve Cinnamon Pecan Coffee Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Top each slice with a gentle dusting of powdered sugar or a swirl of whipped cream to add a creamy contrast. Toasted pecans sprinkled on top bring extra crunch and a beautiful presentation that makes the cake feel even more special.

Side Dishes

This coffee cake pairs wonderfully with fresh seasonal fruit or a simple fruit compote. For an indulgent brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a creamy yogurt parfait for a balanced, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming brunch spread, cut the cake into bite-sized squares and serve on a platter with decorative napkins and fresh flowers nearby. Alternatively, warm slices slightly and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extraordinary dessert twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to five days. Wrapping the cake tightly helps maintain its moisture and keeps that lovely cinnamon pecan flavor vibrant.

Freezing

This Cinnamon Pecan Coffee Cake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Warm up slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or in a preheated 325°F oven for 10 minutes. Reheating revives the cake’s soft texture and enhances the aroma of cinnamon and pecans, making it taste freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I substitute regular milk for buttermilk?

Yes, you can! For every 1 cup of buttermilk, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar with enough milk to reach 1 cup and let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This mimics buttermilk’s acidity and helps the cake rise properly.

How do I prevent the cake from becoming dense?

Mix the batter just until the flour disappears and avoid overmixing once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing develops gluten, which can lead to a heavier texture instead of a tender crumb.

Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts make a delicious alternative and provide their own unique flavor and crunch, so feel free to swap pecans with walnuts if that’s what you have on hand.

Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?

Definitely. This Cinnamon Pecan Coffee Cake Recipe yields about 12 servings, making it ideal for gatherings or family brunches. It’s easy to multiply the recipe if you need more portions.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

Try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that’s formulated for baking. Keep in mind that texture may vary slightly, but the cinnamon pecan flavors will still shine beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Pecan Coffee Cake Recipe is one of those treasures that feels like a thoughtful, delicious gift you’re giving yourself and your loved ones. It’s comforting, rich, and packed with flavors that dance together in perfect harmony. Whether for a special occasion or a treat-yourself moment, I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite coffee cake for cozy mornings and joyful gatherings alike.

Print