Description

Arlene's Caramel & Streusel Coffee Cake is a decadent, bakery-style dessert that combines moist yellow cake with swirls of caramel and a buttery streusel topping. Perfect for coffee lovers or as a centerpiece at brunch, this cake is a true showstopper. The layers of flavor—sweet caramel, aromatic cinnamon, and creamy glaze—make each bite a delight. It’s an ideal treat to share with loved ones, whether for special occasions or a cozy afternoon indulgence. Best of all, the recipe is straightforward, with simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions to ensure you achieve perfection every time.

Ingredients

• For the cake batter:
• 1 box extra moist yellow cake mix
• 1 small box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 3/4 cup water
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon butter extract or flavoring
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup caramel ice cream topping, heated
• For the streusel mix:
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (adjust to taste)
• 1/3 cup Bisquick mix
• 3–4 tablespoons cold butter, cut into small pieces (chill in the freezer before use)
• For the glaze:
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons hot milk or cream
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (or 1/2 teaspoon butter extract for a stronger flavor)
• 1/3 cup softened cream cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Adjust baking time for convection ovens by reducing it by 10 minutes.
2. Spray a 9x13-inch glass baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
3. In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, vanilla pudding mix, vegetable oil, water, and eggs on medium speed for 8 minutes. Add butter extract and vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
4. Pour the batter into the baking dish and set aside.
5. In a separate bowl, combine white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and Bisquick. Add cold butter and blend until crumbly.
6. Sprinkle the streusel topping over the batter and swirl with a knife or chopstick.
7. Drizzle warmed caramel topping over the batter.
8. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes.
9. For the glaze, warm milk or cream and whip with softened cream cheese, melted butter, and powdered sugar. Add vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
10. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.

Tips and Conclusion

For an extra caramel boost, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the glaze just before serving. If you’d like to elevate the flavor further, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the streusel before baking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat slices slightly before serving to maintain their fresh-from-the-oven flavor.
Arlene's Caramel & Streusel Coffee Cake is a recipe that blends ease and elegance, resulting in a dessert your guests will rave about. From its moist texture to the gooey caramel and buttery streusel, it’s a treat that feels indulgent yet approachable. Pair it with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate experience. After trying this recipe, explore more of our coffee cake variations to keep the inspiration flowing. Share this recipe with friends and family, and don’t forget to let us know how yours turned out!