The Trader Joe’s Boxed Cake Mix My Guests Think Is My Grandma’s Recipe

It’s so good that I buy several boxes at a time.

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I’ve made Trader Joe’s Cinnamon Coffee Cake Mix for three parties and almost everyone who tries it immediately asks if it’s my grandmother’s or mother’s recipe and if they can have it before you leave. I won’t deny it. At every opportunity I considered playing this as a cake from scratch, but my conscience got the better of me. I also didn’t have a recipe to turn in, so that would have created a bit of a flaw in the plan, anyway (Plus, Jamie Lee Curtis’ favorite cake starts with a boxed mix, so I’m in good company ! ).

What I did I have to hand over either an extra box of this coffee cake mix (yes, I stocked up), the link to this item on the Trader Joe’s website, or a photo of what the box looks like. I also got some tips for making the best version of this cake, as well as some suggestions for making it even better. Of course, if there was anything left, the best thing I had to offer was the leftovers.

Tips for Making TJ’s Cinnamon Coffee Cake

Trader Joe’s Cinnamon Crumb Coffee Cake is perfectly moist, sweet and spicy. Be sure to pick up a box (or four) on your next Trader Joe’s run and enjoy for breakfast, dessert, or even as a little sweet snack throughout the day with a cup of tea or coffee.

Now that I’ve made it a few times, I have a few tips and suggestions for making this simple, classic, no-fuss cinnamon coffee cake. Serve it at your next party and I promise everyone will be asking for your family recipe too!

Bring the ingredients to room temperature.

Let the eggs, milk or water, and butter come to room temperature before mixing the coffee cake batter. This will allow the ingredients to bind and mix together and help achieve a smooth, evenly mixed dough with no lumps.

Use milk instead of water.

I’ve found that milk makes a coffee cake that has a denser, fluffier, and slightly creamier texture. When I think of a homemade cake, it’s that rich flavor and texture that I think of. I find that adding water to the mixture results in a less flavorful and slightly drier cake.

Coat the mold or baking dish with butter and flour.

The box suggests doing one of these steps to prepare your mold. I find that covering the pan with softened butter or cooking spray, then dusting lightly with flour, is a sure way to keep your cake from sticking to the pan and result in a beautifully and evenly browned coffee cake.

Use a fork or pastry cutter and your hands to form the crumbs.

The reason I swear by this is that it helps create crumbs of varying sizes. Start by using a fork or pastry cutter (my personal preference) to incorporate the softened butter into the breadcrumb mixture. Once it is mostly combined, use clean hands to continue working the crumb mixture, forming large crumbs with your hands.

Opt for crumbs on the top rather than in the middle.

It’s definitely a personal preference. I’ve tried both methods and I completely prefer a thick, generous layer of crumbs on top rather than scattered in the middle. First of all, I find it prettier to serve. Second, when the crumbs are placed on top, they cook to a crispy, golden finish that you simply won’t get by placing them in the center.

How to Improve Cinnamon Coffee Cake

Now, let me be clear. This coffee cake is absolutely delicious on its own, and I don’t often say that about boxed cake mix. I find that they almost always need a little something extra. If you want to make this coffee cake even more delicious, I’ve played around with the mix a bit and have some great tips.

Add vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste

I almost always add an extra 1 to 3 teaspoons of vanilla extract or Trader Joe’s Bourbon Vanilla Bean Paste to any boxed cake mix or prepared frosting. Many prepared mixes contain natural vanilla, but it’s not as strong as an extract or paste. Adding this will enhance the flavors and aroma of the batter, making the cake taste more like a homemade cake.

Replace sour cream or buttermilk with milk or water

Coffee cake with a tangy twist is absolutely delicious. The balance of flavors is pleasant. Replacing the same amount of milk or water that this mixture calls for (2/3 cup) with sour cream or buttermilk will give it a slightly tart taste and an even denser texture. Both of these options are very thick and fatty dairy, so they will go a long way to upping your coffee cake game.

Add touches of texture

If you’re craving texture, don’t hesitate to get creative with some mix-ins! After mixing the coffee cake batter, add a handful or two of your favorite morsels to enjoy with each bite of dessert. Suggestions include chocolate chips, raisins, shredded coconut, or my favorite chopped nuts. Have fun with it!

Serve with fresh berries and whipped cream

Whether for breakfast or dessert, you can’t go wrong topping this moist and spicy cinnamon cake with a dollop of plump, vibrant, juicy berries and a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream. It’s also beautiful on the plate!

Read the original article on All Recipes.