Craving a delicious coffee cake but short on time and ingredients? This recipe delivers a surprisingly moist and flavorful cake using only three simple ingredients! Perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings, this 3-ingredient coffee cake is a game-changer for beginner bakers and experienced cooks alike. Let's dive in!
What You'll Need:
This recipe relies on the magic of a simple boxed cake mix to achieve incredible results with minimal effort. You'll need:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix: This provides the base for our cake. You can experiment with other flavors like spice or chocolate, but yellow cake offers a classic coffee cake taste.
- 4 large eggs: These bind the ingredients and add richness and moisture.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Oil keeps the cake moist and tender. You can substitute melted unsalted butter for a richer flavor.
Instructions:
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Follow these easy steps:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, and oil. Mix with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, or until the batter is smooth and well-combined. Don't overmix!
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Serve: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before cutting and serving. This prevents crumbling and allows the cake to set properly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about this simple recipe, addressed to help you achieve baking success:
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes! While yellow cake mix provides a classic coffee cake flavor, you can experiment with other varieties like spice, chocolate, or even funfetti cake mix. Each will produce a unique flavor profile. Just be sure to follow the same instructions.
What if I don't have vegetable oil?
Melted unsalted butter works as a fantastic substitute. Use ½ cup of melted butter instead of the oil. The cake might have a slightly richer flavor and potentially a slightly darker crust.
How can I make this cake more decadent?
While this recipe is already delicious, you can easily elevate it. Consider adding a streusel topping for added texture and sweetness, a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk, or even a dollop of whipped cream for an extra luxurious treat.
Can I add other ingredients to the batter?
While keeping it simple is the beauty of this recipe, you can incorporate small additions. A teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon will add subtle flavor enhancements. However, adding too many ingredients might alter the texture.
How long can I store leftover coffee cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to ensure the cake is fully baked. If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, bake for a few more minutes.
- Let it cool completely: This prevents the cake from crumbling when you cut it.
This 3-ingredient coffee cake is a testament to the fact that simple can be spectacular. Enjoy this quick, easy, and undeniably delicious dessert!
