Masters of kitchen
There’s something magical about slow mornings—a steaming cup of coffee, the soft hum of the oven still warm, and a tender slice of cake with a crisp, sugary crust. That’s the comfort wrapped up in an Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake. It’s more than just a treat; it’s a warm hug from the inside out.
Unlike fancy pastries or layered cakes, this coffee cake is wonderfully simple—just the way the Amish intended. It uses pantry staples like flour, sugar, cinnamon, and buttermilk to create a soft, moist crumb with an irresistibly crunchy top. And the best part? It comes together in a single bowl, no yeast or complicated techniques required.
Whether you’re baking for a quiet breakfast, a family brunch, or just because you deserve something sweet, this classic coffee cake delivers all the cozy vibes. Let’s dig into what makes this old-fashioned favorite so timeless.
What Is Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake?
Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake is a traditional, no-fuss dessert rooted in the heart of Amish home baking. It’s a simple but satisfying cake that balances a tender, moist interior with a golden cinnamon sugar topping that crisps beautifully in the oven.
This cake doesn’t require fancy mixers or hard-to-find ingredients—just wholesome basics you probably already have on hand. Think all-purpose flour, butter, cinnamon, sugar, and buttermilk. The result is a cake that’s subtly sweet, warmly spiced, and just rustic enough to feel homemade in the best way.
While it’s called a coffee cake, there’s no actual coffee in the recipe. It’s named that way because it’s the perfect companion to a hot cup of coffee or tea. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, afternoon snacking, or even dessert, this cake is an anytime classic that brings comfort with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake
If you’re craving something sweet, nostalgic, and easy to make, this cake checks every box. Here’s why this Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake deserves a spot in your baking rotation:
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No yeast or long rising times – Just mix, pour, and bake.
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Super moist and tender – Thanks to the buttermilk base.
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Crumbly cinnamon-sugar topping – It bakes into a golden, crisp crust.
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Perfect for freezing or make-ahead – Bake now, enjoy later.
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Tastes even better the next day – The flavors deepen overnight.
This recipe is ideal for beginner bakers or anyone looking for a no-fuss sweet treat that feels like a hug from grandma’s kitchen. Whether you serve it warm with a pat of butter or eat it cold straight from the fridge (no judgment here), it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake
This humble cake is made with pantry basics, yet the result tastes like something truly special. Here’s what you’ll need:
Dry Ingredients
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All-purpose flour – Gives the cake structure and softness.
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Granulated sugar – For sweetness in both the batter and topping.
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Cinnamon – The star spice; use fresh for best flavor.
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Baking soda – Helps the cake rise evenly.
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Salt – Balances out the sweetness and enhances flavor.
Wet Ingredients
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Buttermilk – Keeps the crumb tender and adds slight tanginess.
Substitute: Use 1 cup of milk + 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice. -
Egg – Binds everything and adds richness.
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Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and enhances the cinnamon.
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Melted butter – Adds fat, flavor, and moisture.
Pantry Swap Tip: No buttermilk? You can use sour cream or plain Greek yogurt thinned with a little milk. They both work wonderfully to keep the cake moist and tangy.
Everything mixes easily in bowls—no stand mixer needed. It’s the kind of recipe you can throw together before the coffee finishes brewing.
The Secret to That Perfect Amish Texture
What makes this coffee cake so magical? It’s all in the texture. A soft, fluffy crumb underneath a perfectly crisp, cinnamon-kissed top—and it starts with one secret ingredient: buttermilk. The acidity in buttermilk reacts with the baking soda to give the cake its signature tenderness without being dense or dry.
Another key to that iconic sugar-crust top? A generous sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar before baking. As it bakes, the sugar melts, caramelizes, and creates that crackly golden topping that shatters slightly when you slice into it. It’s what dreams are made of.
Lastly, don’t overmix the batter. Amish baking is rooted in simplicity and heart. Overworking the batter can make the cake tough—so mix just until everything is combined. That’s it.
This cake is a reminder that great things don’t have to be complicated. A few simple steps, a bit of love, and you’re on your way to comfort food perfection.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake
This recipe is wonderfully simple—just the way Amish recipes are meant to be. Here’s how to bring it to life from scratch:
Prep the Pan
Start by buttering an 8×8 or 9×9-inch square baking dish. You can also line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup, but greasing it well is usually enough. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you are.
Mix Wet & Dry Separately
In one bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
In a separate bowl, stir the wet ingredients: buttermilk (or substitute), egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
Tip: Make sure your buttermilk and egg are at room temperature for better mixing.
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Combine and Layer
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix gently—just until no dry streaks remain. Overmixing leads to a tough cake, so stir with care.
Spread half the batter into your prepared pan.
Sprinkle a generous layer of cinnamon sugar over the batter.
Then, add the remaining batter on top and gently spread it out.
Pro Tip: Use a skewer or butter knife to lightly swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter for a marbled effect.
Top and Bake
Sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar evenly over the top.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick comes out clean. The top should be golden and slightly crisp.
Cool and Slice
Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 15–20 minutes before slicing. This helps it firm up and allows the flavors to settle.
Serve warm, room temperature, or chilled—this cake is delicious no matter how you serve it.
Flavor Ideas for Your Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake
Want to change things up? Try these delicious variations:
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Add fruit: Stir in chopped apples or pears for a cozy fall twist.
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Use brown sugar: Replace white sugar with light brown sugar for a richer, caramel-like flavor.
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Swap spices: Pumpkin pie spice or apple pie spice can give this cake a seasonal boost.
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Add crunch: Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon sugar topping for texture.
These little tweaks make the recipe feel brand new, and they’re all easy to try without changing the base of the cake.
How to Serve This Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake
This cake is perfect served warm with a cup of coffee or chai—but it’s just as lovely with a cold glass of milk. Add a small pat of butter on top for that melt-in-your-mouth magic, or drizzle with simple vanilla glaze if you want something sweeter.
Hosting brunch? Slice it into bite-sized squares for a charming addition to your table. It’s also great for potlucks, bake sales, or just an afternoon treat with a good book.
How to Store Your Amish Coffee Cake the Right Way
This cake stores beautifully:
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At room temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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In the fridge: Stays fresh for 5–6 days.
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For freezing: Wrap slices in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.
When ready to eat, reheat a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or warm in a low oven until soft and fragrant. The cinnamon sugar topping will crisp right back up!
Make-Ahead Tips for Amish Coffee Cake Gifts
This is a fantastic make-ahead recipe. Bake it the night before a holiday breakfast or brunch—it actually tastes better the next day!
To gift it:
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Wrap cooled slices in parchment paper and tie with kitchen twine
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Place the whole cake in a disposable foil pan with a clear lid
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Add a hand-written label or tag for a thoughtful, homemade touch
Perfect for hostess gifts, new parents, or anyone who could use a little slice of comfort.
FAQs
What makes a coffee cake “Amish”?
Amish coffee cakes are simple, rustic, and made from scratch using pantry staples. They avoid frosting and focus on flavor and texture.
Does Amish coffee cake contain coffee?
Nope! It’s called coffee cake because it’s traditionally served with coffee, not made with it.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of buttermilk?
Yes. Just thin it out with a tablespoon or two of milk to mimic buttermilk’s texture and acidity.
How do I know when my coffee cake is done?
A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean, and the edges will pull slightly from the sides of the pan.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch pan and add about 8–10 minutes to the baking time. Just keep an eye on the top—it should be golden and crisp.
Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake
Equipment
- 8x8 or 9x9-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Skewer or butter knife (optional for swirling)
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup buttermilk or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup 1 stick melted butter
Topping:
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1½ tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter or line an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, vanilla, and melted butter.
- Combine Gently: Add wet ingredients to dry and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Layer Batter & Cinnamon Sugar: Spread half the batter in the pan. Sprinkle with half the topping. Add remaining batter and smooth the top. Finish with the rest of the cinnamon sugar.
- Optional Swirl: Use a skewer to lightly swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter.
- Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool & Serve: Let cool at least 15 minutes. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- No buttermilk? Mix 1 cup milk with 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice.
- You can double the recipe for a 9×13-inch pan—just increase baking time by 8–10 minutes.
- Great for freezing! Wrap slices individually for quick snacks.
Nutrition
Conclusion: A Simple Slice of Tradition
There’s a reason Amish Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake has stood the test of time—it’s proof that the best recipes are the ones made with love, simplicity, and a few humble ingredients. Whether you’re baking it for a quiet morning, a family gathering, or just because your kitchen smells a little too clean, this cozy cake delivers every single time.
With its soft, tender crumb and sweet cinnamon crunch on top, it’s the kind of treat that brings people together—and maybe even encourages them to linger a little longer at the table. And thanks to its make-ahead and freezer-friendly nature, you can always have a slice ready when the craving strikes.
So go ahead—brew that coffee, warm up the oven, and bake a little comfort into your day. This classic Amish treat is waiting to become a new favorite in your home, just like it is in ours.
