10 Cakes That Work for Breakfast and Dessert

Coffee cake has a way of turning simple ingredients into something that feels homemade and comforting. Whether it’s layered with fruit, topped with streusel, or swirled with cinnamon sugar, each version brings its own flavor and texture to the table. Some of these recipes lean classic, others use shortcuts like boxed mix or Bisquick, and a few bring in modern methods like the air fryer or Instant Pot. What they all have in common is a tender crumb and a warm flavor that fits in just as well at breakfast as it does for dessert.

Air Fryer Pistachio Pudding Coffee Cake

This quick-bake version uses pistachio pudding mix for flavor and moisture. The air fryer gives it a slightly crisp edge while the inside stays soft and springy. It’s mildly nutty and naturally green. Perfect for smaller batches or quick weekday baking.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pistachio Pudding Coffee Cake

Instant Pot Spanish Coffee Cake

Baked in the pressure cooker, this version comes out incredibly moist thanks to steam-based cooking. It’s often spiced with cinnamon and cocoa, sometimes with citrus zest or nuts mixed in. The texture is dense but tender. Best served warm with glaze or fresh fruit.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spanish Coffee Cake

Bisquick Coffee Cake

This shortcut uses baking mix for a fluffy, tender crumb without needing separate flour or leavening. It’s fast, reliable, and finished with a classic cinnamon sugar topping. Great when you want something quick with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Bisquick Coffee Cake

Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Pumpkin and warm spices give this coffee cake a deep, cozy flavor. The texture is soft and slightly dense, perfect with a cinnamon crumble on top. Works well in fall but doesn’t have to stay seasonal. Best with a drizzle of maple glaze or a spoonful of whipped cream.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Blueberry Coffee Cake with Streusel

This version leans into the topping with a thick layer of buttery streusel over juicy blueberry cake. The combination of textures makes it a standout. It’s slightly sweet, not too rich, and bakes evenly. Great for brunch or casual get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Coffee Cake with Streusel

Strawberry Coffee Cake

Strawberries bring sweet, tart flavor to the center or top of this soft coffee cake. They bake down into the batter, adding color and moisture. Try it with fresh berries or frozen. A nice change from the usual blueberry version.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Coffee Cake

Pecan Pie Coffee Cake

This rich version layers in a sticky brown sugar pecan filling similar to the one in pecan pie. The top has a crunch while the middle stays gooey. It’s sweet, bold, and great for fall or winter gatherings. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Coffee Cake

Coffee Cake

A classic vanilla or cinnamon base with a sugar swirl inside and a buttery crumb on top. It’s the most recognizable version and works for nearly any occasion. Not too sweet and easy to slice. Often served with coffee but doesn’t need it.
Get the Recipe: Coffee Cake

Blueberry Sour Cream Coffee Cake

Sour cream gives this cake a rich, dense base that stays moist for days. The blueberries are folded into the batter for pops of fruity flavor. A light crumb topping or glaze finishes it off. It’s a sturdy bake that holds up to slicing and storing.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Sour Cream Coffee Cake

Cake Mix Coffee Cake

This one starts with a boxed cake mix and gets an upgrade from a cinnamon sugar swirl and crumble topping. It’s soft, fluffy, and comes together fast. Use yellow, white, or spice cake mix depending on what’s in your pantry. A go-to when time is short but flavor still matters.
Get the Recipe: Cake Mix Coffee Cake