There’s something magical about mornings that begin with the aroma of freshly baked coffee cake drifting through the kitchen. Whether you’re sipping coffee alone before the world wakes up or hosting brunch with friends and family, this Butterscotch Coffee Cake offers the kind of warmth and indulgence that turns ordinary moments into lasting memories.
Soft, buttery, and sweetened with golden brown sugar and melty butterscotch chips, this cake brings old-fashioned comfort with every bite. It’s not a pie. It’s not a tart. It’s something cozier, humbler—and maybe even more satisfying. If you’re looking for a baked treat that fits into both chaotic and cozy mornings alike, this recipe is about to become your go-to.
In this comprehensive article, you’ll discover everything from ingredients and baking tips to storage methods, make-ahead strategies, and even expert FAQs—all written with you in mind.
1. Why You’ll Love This Butterscotch Coffee Cake
If you’ve ever wanted a dessert that doubles as a breakfast treat, this is it. Here’s why this butterscotch coffee cake stands out:
- Simple Pantry Ingredients – Nothing fancy, just tried-and-true basics.
- Moist and Tender Crumb – Thanks to buttermilk and softened butter.
- Melty Butterscotch Bits – Each bite has rich, caramel-like sweetness.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – From weekend brunch to afternoon tea.
- Freezer-Friendly and Make-Ahead Approved – Bake now, enjoy later.
2. Ingredients & Substitutions
Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need and what can be swapped.
🧈 Core Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
For richness and moisture. Ensure it’s room temperature for easy creaming. - 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
Adds depth and that signature molasses-caramel sweetness. - 1 large egg
Binds everything together and adds tenderness. - 2 cups all-purpose flour
Provides structure. Sift for best results. - 1 teaspoon baking powder + ½ teaspoon baking soda
This combo ensures a light, fluffy texture. - ½ teaspoon salt
Balances out the sweetness beautifully. - 1 cup buttermilk
Keeps the crumb moist and tender. Sub with milk + lemon juice if needed. - 1 cup butterscotch chips
The star ingredient. Don’t skip these!
🔁 Optional Swaps:
- No buttermilk? Use 1 tbsp lemon juice + 1 cup milk.
- Want a dairy-free version? Use plant-based butter and almond milk + vinegar.
- Gluten-free? Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
3. Tools You’ll Need
You don’t need fancy equipment to make this coffee cake. Here’s what helps:
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Cooling rack
- Parchment paper (optional)
4. How to Make Butterscotch Coffee Cake (Step-by-Step)
Let’s walk through the baking process, one cozy step at a time.
🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 12 slices
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and packed brown sugar until light, fluffy, and creamy (about 2–3 minutes).
💡 Tip: The color should lighten slightly when it’s properly creamed.
Step 3: Add the Egg
Crack in the egg and beat until fully incorporated. The mixture should look smooth and slightly thick.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Alternately
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the buttermilk into the butter mixture. Start and end with dry. Mix just until combined—don’t overbeat.
Step 6: Fold in Butterscotch Chips
Gently fold in the butterscotch chips using a spatula. Reserve a handful for sprinkling on top if desired.
Step 7: Pour and Bake
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Sprinkle remaining butterscotch chips on top.
Bake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 8: Cool & Serve
Allow to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
5. Expert Tips for Perfect Results
Here’s how to elevate your cake from good to great:
- Use room-temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter—this can make the cake tough.
- Use real buttermilk if possible for best flavor.
- Sprinkle sugar and extra chips on top for a caramelized crust.
- Test doneness with a toothpick—look for moist crumbs, not wet batter.
6. Make-Ahead Instructions
This cake is excellent for prepping the day before a special breakfast or brunch.
- Bake fully, let cool, then wrap tightly in foil.
- Store at room temperature overnight or in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.
7. How to Store and Reheat
🧊 Storage:
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Fridge: Keeps well for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temp before serving.
- Freezer: Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly.
🔥 Reheating:
- Microwave (10–15 sec per slice)
- Oven (300°F for 5–7 minutes)
8. Serving Suggestions
- Pair with black coffee, chai latte, or herbal tea.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt for extra indulgence.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
9. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cold butter leads to lumpy batter—soften it first.
- Skipping buttermilk results in a dry cake—use a substitute if needed.
- Overbaking dries out the crumb—watch the oven in the final 5 minutes.
- Not greasing the pan well can cause sticking.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this recipe without butterscotch chips?
Yes! You can substitute with white chocolate chips, caramel chips, or chopped toffee bits.
Q2: Can I bake this in a round or bundt pan?
You can. For a bundt pan, increase baking time to 50–55 minutes and keep an eye on the center.
Q3: How do I make this egg-free?
Use ¼ cup of applesauce or mashed banana as a binder. Note: It may change the flavor slightly.
Q4: Can this cake be made gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
Q5: Is coffee in the coffee cake?
Nope! The term “coffee cake” refers to a cake meant to be eaten with coffee, not one made with it.
11. Nutrition Information (Per Slice)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 315 |
| Carbohydrates | 43g |
| Sugar | 26g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 210mg |
| Cholesterol | 40mg |
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.
12. More Easy Cake Recipes You’ll Love
🍍 Pineapple Condensed Milk Cake
Bright, tropical, and decadently moist—perfect for warm afternoons.
🍏 3-Ingredient Apple Cake
Minimal effort, maximum flavor. The easiest cake you’ll ever bake.
🎂 Homemade White Cake
A versatile, elegant cake for any celebration or layered dessert.
Final Thoughts
This Butterscotch Coffee Cake is the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation. It’s adaptable, crowd-pleasing, and brings that perfect balance of nostalgia and indulgence to the table. Whether you’re baking for a brunch, holiday, or a quiet morning at home, this cake delivers every time.
Ready to bake your new favorite breakfast treat? Bookmark this page, share it with your baking group, or print the recipe and pass it along—because cozy mornings deserve cake.
