Gluten-Free Cinnamon Coffee Cake: The Perfect Breakfast Treat
Indulge in this delightful gluten-free cinnamon coffee cake, a perfect addition to any breakfast or brunch spread. This recipe delivers a soft, buttery cake with a generous swirl of cinnamon filling and a delectable cinnamon sugar crumb topping. For those avoiding dairy, we’ve also included a dairy-free option, ensuring everyone can enjoy this classic treat.
The Be Gluten-Free Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free BAKING Cookbook
Discover the joy of baking again with 200 delicious gluten-free and dairy-free recipes! From everyday bread to celebration cakes that everyone will love.
Get Your Copy TodayIf you’re looking for other gluten-free breakfast ideas, be sure to check out our Gluten-Free Banana Bread or our Gluten-Free Pancakes with Berries for more morning inspiration! And for another coffee-time treat, you might love our Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Muffins.
Why This Gluten-Free Coffee Cake Works
Creating gluten-free baked goods can sometimes be a challenge, but this coffee cake recipe simplifies the process. By using a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum, you’ll achieve a texture that’s remarkably similar to traditional coffee cake. This ensures a moist, tender crumb without any of the gumminess that can sometimes occur in gluten-free baking. This recipe also provides a dairy-free alternative, making it a versatile option for various dietary needs. If you are interested in learning more about gluten-free flour, check out our Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Scones recipe to see how it works in other applications.
How to Make This Amazing Gluten-Free Cinnamon Coffee Cake
Follow these simple, step-by-step instructions to create a delicious gluten-free cinnamon coffee cake that everyone will love!
- Get Started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9″ x 13″ glass baking pan with gluten-free cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Buttermilk (Dairy or Dairy-Free): In a large glass measuring cup or small bowl, add the white vinegar to the milk (dairy or unsweetened almond, cashew, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option). Stir to combine and set aside. This creates a homemade buttermilk substitute.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, baking powder, salt, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. If your gluten-free flour blend doesn’t contain xanthan gum, consider adding it to avoid a crumbly texture.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Pour in the melted butter (or dairy-free butter alternative like Smart Balance) and pure vanilla extract into the dry ingredients. Mix to combine.
- Add Eggs and Milk: Beat in the eggs until the batter is smooth. Gradually pour in the milk (dairy or dairy-free), about a cup at a time, mixing until the batter is smooth and well combined. Set the batter aside.
- Create the Cinnamon Filling: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon until evenly combined.
- Layer the Cake: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar filling over the top of the batter.
- Add Remaining Batter: Pour the remaining cake batter over the cinnamon sugar layer, spreading gently to cover the filling.
- Prepare the Crumb Topping: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, gluten-free flour, and cinnamon. Add the melted butter (or dairy-free alternative), stirring until well combined and crumbly.
- Add Crumb Topping: Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the top of the cake batter, ensuring it’s distributed across the surface.
- Bake the Cake: Place the cake on the middle rack of the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, cover the cake with foil to prevent excessive browning, and then bake for another 20-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 20 minutes before cutting and serving. This allows the cake to set slightly and makes it easier to slice.
Tips for Gluten-Free Baking Success
- Gluten-Free Flour Blend: I recommend using a cup-for-cup all-purpose gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. This helps to mimic the texture of traditional wheat flour.
- Measuring Flour: For best results, use the “spoon and level” method when measuring gluten-free flour. Spoon the flour into a dry measuring cup and level off the excess with the back of a knife.
- Dairy-Free Option: Easily make this recipe dairy-free by using your favorite dairy-free milk (almond, cashew, or coconut) and a dairy-free butter alternative.
Storage Instructions
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing Instructions: For longer storage, this coffee cake can be frozen. Wrap the completely cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for 2-3 hours before serving.
Gluten-Free Cinnamon Coffee Cake: A Delightful Treat for Everyone
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this gluten-free cinnamon coffee cake!
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat any time of day, this cake
combines a moist, buttery texture with a delightful cinnamon swirl and a
generous crumb topping. Plus, we’ve included a dairy-free option so
everyone can enjoy!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 1/2 cups milk, dairy-free use unsweetened almond milk, cashew, or
coconut milk - 3 3/4 cups all-purpose gluten-free flour with xanthan gum, I like
Pillsbury gluten-free. Not all gluten-free flours are created equal. You
may experience different baking results depending on the gluten-free flour
blend you choose. - 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup butter, melted, dairy-free use Smart Balance butter
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
For the Filling:
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
For the Topping:
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup butter, melted, dairy-free use Smart Balance butter
- 1 1/3 cups all-purpose gluten-free flour with xanthan gum
Nutritional Information
(Please note that the following values are approximate and can vary based on
specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 570kcal
- Carbohydrates: 96g
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 215mg
- Potassium: 175mg
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 56g
- Vitamin A: 594IU
- Calcium: 156mg
- Iron: 2mg
Gluten-Free Benefits
This coffee cake is specially crafted to be gluten-free, making it a
perfect choice for those with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or anyone
following a gluten-free lifestyle. By using a high-quality gluten-free
flour blend, we ensure a delightful texture and flavor without any gluten!
- Digestive Health: Gluten-free diets can improve digestion and
reduce bloating in sensitive individuals. - Nutrient Absorption: Gluten can sometimes hinder nutrient
absorption. This recipe allows for better nutrient uptake. - Energy Levels: Many people report increased energy levels when
avoiding gluten.
Tips and Variations for the Best Gluten-Free Coffee Cake
Here are some handy tips and delicious variations to make this gluten-free
cinnamon coffee cake your own!
Flour Selection
For the best results, use a high-quality all-purpose gluten-free flour blend
that contains xanthan gum. Xanthan gum helps to provide structure and
binds the ingredients, mimicking the role of gluten in traditional baking.
If your blend doesn’t contain xanthan gum, add about 1 teaspoon to the dry
ingredients.
Dairy-Free Options
To make this coffee cake dairy-free, use your favorite dairy-free butter
alternative (such as Smart Balance) and unsweetened almond, cashew, or
coconut milk. These substitutions work seamlessly and maintain the cake’s
delicious flavor and moist texture.
Sweetness Adjustment
Adjust the amount of sugar in the filling and topping to suit your
preference. For a less sweet cake, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup in each
component. You can also substitute part of the granulated sugar with a
natural sweetener like stevia or erythritol.
Flavor Variations
- Apple Cinnamon: Add 1 cup of diced apples to the cinnamon filling
for a fruity twist. - Nutty Delight: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts
into the crumb topping for added crunch and flavor. - Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the cake
batter for a bright, refreshing flavor. - Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle 1/2 cup of dairy-free chocolate chips
over the cinnamon filling layer.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store any leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature
for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer
storage, this cake freezes beautifully!
To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum
foil, and place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thaw the wrapped cake at room temperature for 2-3 hours or overnight in the
refrigerator before serving.
Enjoy Your Gluten-Free Coffee Cake!
We hope you enjoy this delightful gluten-free cinnamon coffee cake recipe.
Happy baking!
Essential Equipment for This Recipe
To prepare this delicious recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
- Mixing Bowls – A sturdy set of mixing bowls in various sizes is essential for combining wet and dry ingredients.
Find Mixing Bowls on Amazon - Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success.
Find Measuring Cups and Spoons on Amazon - Baking Sheets – For evenly baked goods.
Find Baking Sheets on Amazon - Whisks – Perfect for incorporating air into your mixtures and ensuring a smooth consistency.
Find Whisks on Amazon - Spatulas – Ideal for folding ingredients and scraping bowls clean.
Find Spatulas on Amazon - Food Processors – Useful for chopping, shredding, and pureeing ingredients quickly.
Find Food Processors on Amazon - Saucepans – For cooking sauces and other liquid components.
Find Saucepans on Amazon - Chef’s Knives – A sharp knife is essential for all your chopping and dicing needs.
Find Chef’s Knives on Amazon - Cutting Boards – Protect your countertops while prepping ingredients.
Find Cutting Boards on Amazon