If you’re anything like me, there’s something utterly comforting about waking up to a slice of warm, flavorful coffee cake that feels like a hug in dessert form. The Orange Pecan Coffee Cake with Vanilla and Brown Sugar Swirl Recipe is exactly that kind of delight. It combines the bright zestiness of fresh orange with the rich crunch of pecans, all swirled together with a luscious vanilla-infused brown sugar layer that melts into every bite. This cake is perfectly moist, bursting with cozy flavors, and topped with a delicate orange drizzle that ties everything together beautifully. Whether for brunch, a special breakfast, or an afternoon treat, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for sharing happiness around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of the ingredients fool you — each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and that inviting golden color. This coffee cake comes together quickly and easily with pantry staples and a few fresh touches that add just the right pop of flavor.
- Yellow cake mix: The base of the cake, bringing moistness and a tender crumb texture that makes each slice irresistibly soft.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix: Adds extra richness and a subtle vanilla undertone that keeps the cake delightfully moist.
- Sour cream: Enhances the moist, luscious texture while adding a slight tang to balance the sweetness.
- Large eggs: Provide structure and help bind all the ingredients together perfectly.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake tender without weighing it down, contributing to a delicate crumb.
- Vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor profile with warm, comforting notes.
- Orange zest and juice: Infuse fresh brightness and tang, making this coffee cake stand out with citrus charm.
- Chopped pecans: Add crunch and a toasty nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake.
- Light brown sugar: Brings caramel-like sweetness and moisture, working perfectly with the cinnamon for the swirl.
- Ground cinnamon: Introduces warm spice that complements the oranges and pecans stunningly.
- Powdered sugar: Used for the finishing drizzle, lightly sweetening and adding a pretty glossy touch.
How to Make Orange Pecan Coffee Cake with Vanilla and Brown Sugar Swirl Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to a cozy 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Greasing your 13 x 9 inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray is a small but mighty step to ensure your coffee cake comes out clean and intact, ready to impress.
Step 2: Mix the Magic Batter
Combine the yellow cake mix with the instant vanilla pudding mix in a large bowl. Then add the sour cream, eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and one teaspoon of fresh orange zest. Whip everything together with an electric mixer on medium speed for about two minutes until smooth, velvety, and completely blended. This batter is where all the tender, moist goodness begins!
Step 3: Pour and Prep for the Swirl
Pour the rich batter into your prepared pan and gently spread it out. This is the blank canvas for the irresistible vanilla and brown sugar swirl that’s about to take it to a whole new level.
Step 4: Create the Brown Sugar and Pecan Swirl
In a small bowl, mix the chopped pecans, light brown sugar, and cinnamon together. Sprinkle this fragrant mix evenly over the batter. Then grab a butter knife and gently cut through the batter in a side to side motion first, and then top to bottom, swirling the mixture through. This technique creates those beautiful ribbons of sweet, nutty flavor right inside your cake.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your pan into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling that you have a perfectly cooked cake with a scrumptious crumb.
Step 6: Cool and Drizzle
Allow the coffee cake to cool for about 30 minutes on a wire rack. While it’s cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar with just enough fresh orange juice to create a smooth but not too runny glaze. Drizzle this bright finishing touch on the slightly cooled cake for a gorgeous look and another layer of orange sweetness.
How to Serve Orange Pecan Coffee Cake with Vanilla and Brown Sugar Swirl Recipe
Garnishes
Consider adding a dusting of extra powdered sugar just before serving for a snowy effect. A few extra toasted pecans sprinkled on top add crunch. Fresh thin orange slices or a sprig of mint can elevate the presentation, making your coffee cake look as amazing as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This coffee cake pairs wonderfully with a steaming cup of coffee or tea, balancing the sweetness with a comforting, warm beverage. For a more substantial brunch, add fresh fruit salad or yogurt on the side to lighten up the meal and complement the rich cake flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
You can slice the coffee cake into squares for casual gatherings or cut into elegant wedges for a special breakfast or dessert table. Serving it on a beautiful cake stand or rustic wooden board instantly upgrades the experience. Try pairing it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Orange Pecan Coffee Cake with Vanilla and Brown Sugar Swirl Recipe fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the cake moist and the swirl vibrant, so every bite tastes as good as the first.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this cake later, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It will stay delicious for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly baked warmth, reheat slices gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes. Reheating revives the soft texture and melts the glaze slightly, making it just as heavenly as when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is recommended for its classic flavor and texture, you can experiment with butter or vanilla cake mix for subtle variations. Just keep in mind that changes might affect the final flavor slightly.
Is it possible to make this coffee cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free cake mix. Be sure the pudding mix and other ingredients are also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the deliciousness of the Orange Pecan Coffee Cake with Vanilla and Brown Sugar Swirl Recipe.
Can I add more nuts or different kinds?
Definitely! Pecans are a classic favorite here, but walnuts or almonds work beautifully as well. Adjust the amount to your liking for more crunch or a different nutty flavor profile.
How do I make the glaze thicker or thinner?
If your glaze is too thin, add a little more powdered sugar. If it’s too thick, add orange juice a few drops at a time until you reach your desired consistency. It’s easy to customize!
What’s the best way to swirl the brown sugar and pecan mixture?
Using a butter knife to gently cut and swirl through the batter is key. Avoid stirring too vigorously to prevent the swirl from mixing completely into the batter. The goal is pretty, distinct ribbons of brown sugar and nuts throughout.
Final Thoughts
I wholeheartedly encourage you to try the Orange Pecan Coffee Cake with Vanilla and Brown Sugar Swirl Recipe for your next breakfast or brunch gathering. It’s a crowd-pleaser with its luscious combination of citrus, nuts, and warm spices all wrapped up in a tender coffee cake. Trust me, the aromas alone will brighten your kitchen and the taste will keep everyone coming back for more. Happy baking and even happier eating!
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Orange Pecan Coffee Cake with Vanilla and Brown Sugar Swirl Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 15 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cake Mix Coffee Cake is an easy-to-make, moist, and flavorful coffee cake perfect for any occasion. Using a yellow cake mix combined with instant vanilla pudding mix, sour cream, and fresh orange zest, it delivers a tender crumb with a luscious citrus twist. A crunchy cinnamon-pecan swirl adds texture and warmth, while a bright orange glaze drizzled on top finishes the cake beautifully.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 package (13.25 ounces) yellow cake mix (Betty Crocker Super Moist recommended)
- 3.4 ounce package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 large eggs
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (from 1 orange)
Swirl Topping
- ⅔ cup chopped pecans
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Orange Glaze
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- About 1½ tablespoons fresh orange juice (from the same orange used for zest)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside to use later.
- Mix the batter: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and the instant vanilla pudding mix. Add the sour cream, eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of freshly grated orange zest. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the batter is smooth.
- Transfer batter to pan: Pour the prepared batter evenly into the greased baking pan and spread it out gently with a spatula as needed.
- Prepare and swirl topping: In a small bowl, mix the chopped pecans, light brown sugar, and ground cinnamon together. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter in the pan. Using a butter knife, cut into the batter and swirl the topping from side to side horizontally, then vertically lengthwise, to create a marbled swirl effect.
- Bake the coffee cake: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake—it should come out clean when the cake is ready. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 30 minutes.
- Prepare and drizzle glaze: While the cake cools, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh orange juice in a small bowl. Add juice gradually until the glaze reaches a drizzling consistency that is thick but pourable. Drizzle this orange glaze evenly over the slightly cooled coffee cake for a bright, sweet finish.
Notes
- You can substitute the yellow cake mix with a white or butter cake mix for slight variations in flavor.
- If you prefer, replace the vegetable oil with melted butter for a richer taste.
- Ensure the cake is cooled slightly before drizzling glaze to prevent it from melting off completely.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and increase the cinnamon and brown sugar topping slightly for more flavor.
