Gluten Free Coffee Cake Recipe: 5-Minute Morning Magic

There’s nothing quite like waking up to the warm, sweet aroma of cinnamon and brown sugar wafting from the oven. If you’ve been craving a comforting, bakery-style treat that fits a gluten free lifestyle, this gluten free coffee cake recipe is exactly what you need. It’s moist, fluffy, and topped with a perfectly buttery streusel — all ready to go into the oven with just 5 minutes of prep.

Unlike many gluten-free desserts that fall flat or feel overly dense, this recipe uses the right flour and baking technique to deliver results that even gluten-lovers will enjoy. If you’re new to gluten-free baking or wondering what gluten really is, the Celiac Disease Foundation provides a fantastic primer on gluten and why it’s important to avoid it in certain diets.

When baking with gluten-free flours, measurement technique matters. For best results, follow this guide to measuring gluten-free flour properly from King Arthur Baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This gluten free coffee cake recipe stands out for many reasons:

• Quick prep time: just 5 minutes
• Light and moist texture with a tender crumb
• Cinnamon sugar streusel that adds bakery-style flair
• Flexible: dairy-free and egg-free variations work well
• A great match with other baked goods with cream cheese or gluten free dessert ideas

Ingredients You’ll Need

Wet Ingredients

• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup oil (vegetable or coconut)
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups gluten free flour blend (King Arthur Measure for Measure recommended)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt

Streusel Topping

• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• ⅓ cup white sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 cup gluten free flour
• ⅓ cup melted butter

Tools You’ll Need

• 8×8-inch square baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and fork
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Lightly grease the bottom and corners of your pan, or line with parchment for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping

In a bowl, mix the sugars, cinnamon, and gluten-free flour. Stir in melted butter using a fork until you get a crumbly texture. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs for 30 seconds until smooth. Add the sugars, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla, then whisk until combined.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Fold in the dry ingredients gently until just combined. Don’t overmix — a few lumps are fine and help keep the texture light.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Sprinkle the streusel topping on evenly and press down slightly. Bake at 425°F for 7 minutes, then lower the oven temperature to 350°F and continue baking for 30–35 minutes. Do not open the oven during the temperature shift.

Tips for Best Results

• Use the stir, scoop, and level method for flour
• Don’t overmix the batter to maintain fluffiness
• Let the cake rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing
• Use full-fat buttermilk for best moisture and richness

Variations and Customizations

• Add ½ cup blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist
• Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
• Make it dairy-free using oat milk + vinegar and plant-based butter
• For extra indulgence, top with this cream cheese glaze
• If you’re avoiding dairy and eggs, serve it alongside other dairy-free and gluten-free treats

How to Store and Reheat

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours
• Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days
• Freezer: Store slices individually wrapped for up to 1 month

Best Gluten Free Flours to Use

For best results, choose a high-quality flour blend. Recommended options include:

• King Arthur Measure for Measure (tested in this recipe)
• Cup4Cup
• Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 Gluten Free Baking Flour

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

This gluten free coffee cake recipe is proof that gluten-free baking doesn’t mean compromising on taste or texture. It’s soft, sweet, and irresistibly good — perfect for mornings, brunches, or even dessert.

Pair it with gluten free ice cream treats or a warm beverage and enjoy a cozy slice of homemade magic.

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