Are you craving a warm, comforting coffee cake but short on time and ingredients? This incredibly simple 3-ingredient coffee cake recipe will become your new go-to for a quick and satisfying treat. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy ingredient lists; this one delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for busy mornings, unexpected guests, or simply a sweet pick-me-up, this recipe is a testament to how delicious simplicity can be.
What are the 3 ingredients?
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity: you only need yellow cake mix, eggs, and oil. That’s it! No fancy ingredients, no special equipment, just three pantry staples that combine to create a surprisingly moist and flavorful coffee cake.
How to make a 3-ingredient coffee cake?
This recipe is so easy, even beginner bakers will have no trouble mastering it. Here's a step-by-step guide:
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Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a standard 9x13 inch baking pan. This simple step ensures your cake doesn't stick and releases easily.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the entire box of yellow cake mix, eggs, and oil. The exact amount of eggs and oil will vary depending on the brand of cake mix, so always refer to the instructions on your box for the best results. Generally, two large eggs and 1/2 cup of oil are a good starting point.
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Mix Until Smooth: Beat the mixture with an electric mixer until it's smooth and creamy. Over-mixing isn't necessary, so aim for a consistent batter without excessive air bubbles.
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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. Keep an eye on it after 25 minutes, as oven temperatures can vary.
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Cool and Serve: Let the coffee cake cool slightly in the pan before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm, with a cup of coffee, of course!
Can I add anything to my 3-ingredient coffee cake?
While the beauty of this recipe is its simplicity, there's definitely room for customization! Here are some ideas to elevate your 3-ingredient coffee cake:
- Chocolate Chips: Stir in 1-1.5 cups of chocolate chips for a delicious chocolate coffee cake variation.
- Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
- Spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- Glaze: Once cooled, top with a simple powdered sugar glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
Remember to adjust baking time slightly if you add extra ingredients.
What kind of oil should I use?
You can use any neutral-flavored oil, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or even melted coconut oil for a subtle coconut flavor. Avoid using strongly flavored oils like olive oil, as it might overpower the delicate cake flavor.
How long does a 3-ingredient coffee cake last?
Store your leftover 3-ingredient coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Is this coffee cake gluten-free?
No, this recipe uses a standard yellow cake mix, which contains gluten. To make a gluten-free version, you would need to use a gluten-free yellow cake mix. Always check the ingredients list on the cake mix box to ensure it aligns with your dietary needs.
This 3-ingredient coffee cake is the perfect example of a simple recipe that delivers big on flavor. Give it a try and discover the joy of effortless baking!
