Delicious Skillet Coffee Cake Recipe for Brunch

Greetings coffee lovers! As a barista and coffee enthusiast myself, I am constantly on the hunt for new and exciting ways to enjoy this beloved beverage. Today, I am thrilled to share with you my latest discovery – the Skillet Coffee Cake Recipe.

This cake is unlike any other coffee cake you’ve had before. It’s baked in a cast iron skillet, which gives it a unique texture and flavor that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. The streusel topping and infusion of nutmeg and lemon zest perfectly complement the rich coffee flavor, creating an unforgettable culinary experience.

But what makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to make. You only need a handful of simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry, and the recipe itself is quick and straightforward. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to impress your dinner guests or a cozy treat to enjoy on a lazy afternoon, this skillet coffee cake is the perfect choice.

So grab your favorite mug, brew up some fresh coffee, and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Skillet Coffee Cake
Skillet Coffee Cake

Are you looking for a comforting breakfast treat that’s easy to whip up? Look no further than this Skillet Coffee Cake Recipe! Let me tell you why you’ll love it.

First and foremost, this coffee cake is made with biscuit mix, making it simple and quick to put together. You can enjoy a warm, freshly-baked treat without spending too much time in the kitchen.

But just because it’s easy to make doesn’t mean it skimps on flavor. With hints of nutmeg and lemon zest in the batter, every bite of this coffee cake is bursting with deliciousness. Plus, the layer of streusel topping adds a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the soft cake underneath.

And let’s talk about the cooking method – this coffee cake is baked in a cast iron skillet, which not only results in a beautiful presentation but also ensures even heating for a perfectly cooked cake.

But perhaps the most exciting aspect of this recipe is its versatility. Use blueberries for a summery twist on classic coffee cake or try adding pumpkin pie spice for a fall-inspired version. The options are endless and will leave you coming back to this recipe time and time again.

In conclusion, this Skillet Coffee Cake Recipe is the ultimate breakfast indulgence that will delight your taste buds and impress your friends and family. With its simplicity, mouth-watering flavor profile, and infinite adaptability, you simply can’t go wrong with giving it a try.

Ingredient List

 Indulge in a slice of heaven with this Skillet Coffee Cake!
Indulge in a slice of heaven with this Skillet Coffee Cake!

Here are the ingredients you will need for this delicious Skillet Coffee Cake:

  • 1/4 cup of milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup of sugar
  • 2 cups of biscuit mix
  • 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon of lemon zest
  • For the cake cast iron skillet:
  • 2 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup of sugar
  • 2 teaspoons of baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup of milk
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
  • For the cake streusel:
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Make sure to have all ingredients well measured and within easy reach before you begin.

The Recipe How-To

 Perfect for sharing with friends and family on lazy mornings.
Perfect for sharing with friends and family on lazy mornings.

Now that you have gathered all the ingredients from the ingredient list, we can start making this delicious Skillet Coffee Cake Recipe. Let’s begin!

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Cast Iron Skillet

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease your 12 inch cast iron skillet with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Make Cake Batter

In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of biscuit mix, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest.
In another medium bowl, whisk together 3/4 cups of milk, 2 eggs, and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until smooth. Pour the wet mixture into the large bowl with dry ingredients and mix well until smooth and fully combined.

Step 3: Make Streusel Topping

In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Cut in 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter using your fingers or a pastry cutter until crumbly.

Step 4: Layer The Batter and Streusel In Skillet

Spread half of the cake batter on the bottom of the cast iron skillet. Sprinkle with half of the streusel topping. Repeat with remaining batter and streusel topping.

Step 5: Bake The Coffee Cake In The Oven

Place your skilled in your preheated oven, and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center.

Step 6 (Optional): Add Blueberries

For an extra burst of flavor, add blueberries to your coffee cake before putting it in the oven: sprinkle them over the top layer of streusel.

And Voilà! Your Skillet Coffee Cake is ready to be indulged. Don’t forget to serve it warm and pair it with your favorite coffee. Enjoy!

Substitutions and Variations

 Get your taste buds ready for a warm and fluffy cake.
Get your taste buds ready for a warm and fluffy cake.

There are several ways to make this skillet coffee cake recipe your own. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:

– Blueberry Coffee Cake: Add 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries to the cake batter before pouring it into the skillet. You can also sprinkle some blueberries on top of the streusel layer.

– Gluten-Free Skillet Cake: Replace the biscuit mix with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure to use a brand that is formulated specifically for baking, as some blends may not work as well in this recipe.

– Cinnamon Roll Skillet Coffee Cake: Omit the lemon zest and nutmeg from the cake batter, and replace the streusel topping with a mixture of 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 2 teaspoons cinnamon. Drizzle the top with a glaze made from 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract.

– Pumpkin Skillet Coffee Cake: Use canned pumpkin instead of milk in the cake batter. Add 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice to the flour mixture, and sprinkle chopped pecans on top of the streusel layer.

– Rhubarb Skillet Coffee Cake: Replace the lemon zest with orange zest, and add 1 cup of chopped rhubarb to the cake batter. Top with a streusel layer made from 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, and 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter.

Feel free to experiment with different flavor combinations and toppings to create your own signature skillet coffee cake. And if you come up with something amazing, be sure to let us know in the comments below!

Serving and Pairing

 Feel cozy and satisfied with every bite.
Feel cozy and satisfied with every bite.

Skillet coffee cake is a delicious dessert that will satisfy anyone’s craving for sweets. It’s perfect for serving as a treat after a hearty breakfast or brunch, but it can be enjoyed any time of day. The warm and homemade goodness of this coffee cake pairs perfectly with steaming hot coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk.

To make the experience even more delightful, you can garnish this cake with fresh berries like blueberries or strawberries. You can also serve it with homemade whipped cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for an additional tangy touch.

For those who enjoy boozy pairings, pairing an icy cold beer or smooth whiskey with Skillet Coffee Cake would be a great choice. A well-seasoned cast-iron skillet coffee cake would also get along well with non-alcoholic options such as cider or lemonade.

This cake is very versatile and can be served in many creative ways. You can cut it into small squares and serve as finger food at parties, bridal showers, or baby showers. You can also add some ice-cream to amp up the dessert game, for any casual get-together with your friends and family.

In conclusion, whether you want to serve it as a fancy dessert or an everyday evening snack, skillet coffee cake will give you a satisfying experience no matter how you pair it!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 This recipe is easy and quick to whip up, the perfect weekend treat.
This recipe is easy and quick to whip up, the perfect weekend treat.

Now that you’ve made this wonderful Skillet Coffee Cake recipe, you may be wondering about the best ways to store it, reheat it or even make it ahead of time. Fortunately, there are plenty of options to ensure your cake stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible.

To store your Skillet Coffee Cake, let it cool completely and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can stay at room temperature for up to two days, or you can keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. The cake tastes best if you bring it back to room temperature before serving.

To reheat individual slices of the cake, pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds on a microwave-safe plate. You can also warm up slices in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes. If you plan to reheat the entire skillet coffee cake, preheat your oven at 350°F and bake for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

If you want to make this cake ahead of time, you have a few options. You can prepare the dry ingredients ahead of time by measuring out the flour, biscuit mix, nutmeg and lemon zest, then sealing everything in an airtight container until ready to use. You can also prepare the streusel topping ahead of time and store it separately in an airtight container until ready to use.

If you want to bake the whole cake in advance but don’t want to eat it immediately, let it cool completely before covering tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and storing it in the fridge. You can reheat individual slices as outlined above or warm up the entire skillet coffee cake in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

Finally, if you want to switch things up a bit or have different dietary needs or preferences, feel free to experiment with substitutions! For example, you could swap out the blueberries for pumpkin or rhubarb, or make a gluten-free version of the cake using a gluten-free biscuit mix. Whatever variation you choose, just be sure to adjust cooking times and temperatures as needed.

Overall, this Skillet Coffee Cake recipe is both versatile and delicious, making it a perfect choice for any breakfast or brunch occasion.

Tips for Perfect Results

 Savor the aroma of fresh cinnamon and nutmeg as you bake.
Savor the aroma of fresh cinnamon and nutmeg as you bake.

When it comes to making the perfect skillet coffee cake, a few tips and tricks can go a long way. Here are some things to keep in mind to ensure your cake comes out deliciously moist and fluffy:

1. Use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet: A well-seasoned cast iron skillet will ensure that your cake doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan, and will give it a delicious crisp edge.

2. Don’t overmix the batter: When you’re mixing the batter for your coffee cake, be sure not to overmix it. Overmixing can cause your cake to be tough and dry.

3. Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start mixing them together. This will help the batter come together more easily.

4. Keep an eye on your oven temperature: Be sure to check the temperature of your oven with an oven thermometer to ensure it’s accurate. If your oven is too hot or too cool, it can affect the texture of your cake.

5. Add extra streusel topping: Who doesn’t love a little extra crumbly goodness on top of their coffee cake? Consider doubling or even tripling the streusel topping for an extra sweet, crunchy treat.

By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to make a delicious skillet coffee cake that’s perfect every time!

FAQ

Now, it’s time for some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Skillet Coffee Cake Recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie in the coffee cake game, this section will give you all the answers you need to perfect this delightful dish. Let’s dive in!

What’s the difference between coffee cake and streusel?

When it comes to crumb cake and coffee cake, the key variation lies in the quantity of streusel topping employed. In general, crumb cake sports a more substantial streusel topping layer compared to coffee cake which can be prepared without the same topping altogether.

What kind of pan do you use for coffee cake?

This type of baking pan is known for its traditional use in most bakeries. It is commonly utilized for baking a variety of pastries and bread such as coffee cakes, breakfast pastries, monkey bread, and quick bread.

How to bake a cake in cast iron skillet?

First things first, let’s get the oven heated up to a toasty 350°F. Before we dive into the mix, we need to make sure our 12-inch cast iron skillet is well-oiled and floured up.
Once that’s taken care of, we can get to work on the batter. Combine all the ingredients in a generously sized bowl and give it a good stir until everything is well mixed. Pour the batter into the skillet, making sure it’s spread evenly across the surface.
Pop that sucker in the oven and set the timer for 30 to 35 minutes. We’ll know it’s ready when it turns a delicious golden brown and the center is firm to the touch. Once that’s done, let it cool in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes before turning it out onto a plate for serving.

What makes coffee cake different from cake?

What sets coffee cakes apart from other cakes is their signature streusel topping, as well as the absence of frosting. Instead of frosting, coffee cakes often have a light glaze or a filling of fruit, nuts, or chocolate. Some variations even feature a delicious swirl of streusel throughout the cake.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that the whole family will love, try this Skillet Coffee Cake recipe. This cake is perfect for those who love sweets and want something fast and easy to make. The recipe only requires a few ingredients, and it’s easily customizable. Whether you prefer blueberries, cinnamon coffee or brown sugar cinnamon, you can easily substitute ingredients to create your own unique version of this cake.

Plus, using an iron skillet not only adds a special rustic touch to this dish but also helps to distribute the heat evenly, ensuring that the cake is cooked to perfection. And with the variety of sizes available for iron skillets, you can easily adjust the recipe to feed even larger gatherings.

This Skillet Coffee Cake recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it be as a dessert after dinner or as a mid-afternoon treat with a cup of coffee. So why not give it a try? It’s sure to impress your taste buds and become a new favorite in your baking repertoire!

Skillet Coffee Cake

Skillet Coffee Cake Recipe

Cooked outdoors, on a grill. Originally intended as a breakfast dish for campers. Adapted from The Master Chef's Outdoor Grill Cookbook.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Calories 267.4 kcal

Ingredients
  

Topping

  • 1/4 cup biscuit mix
  • 1/4 cup shredded coconut
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 3 tablespoons grated lemon zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

Cake

  • 1 1/2 cups biscuit mix
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1 egg, beaten well
  • 1/4 cup milk

Instructions
 

  • Heat grill.
  • Thoroughly grease the bottom of a Dutch oven, or a heavy 10" skillet with a lid.
  • Line with several layers of waxed paper or parchment. Grease again.
  • Set cover of the pan at the edge of the grill to heat.
  • Combine topping mix ingredients and set aside.
  • Stir biscuit mix and sugar together.
  • Add egg and milk.
  • Beat until smooth.
  • Place in skillet.
  • Sprinkle topping over batter.
  • Cover and cook over LOW heat at edge of grill, 15-20 minutes, or until tester comes out clean.

Add Your Own Notes

Nutrition

Serving: 60gCalories: 267.4kcalCarbohydrates: 44gProtein: 4.5gFat: 8.4gSaturated Fat: 3.2gCholesterol: 33.2mgSodium: 405.2mgFiber: 1.3gSugar: 23.6g
Keyword < 30 Mins, Breads, Coconut, Fruit
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