Gluten free coffee cake with cinnamon filling
Enjoy the perfect mix of sweet and spicy with our gluten free coffee cake. Each slice is moist and tender, made with creamy skyr and smoothly mixed butter and sugar. It features a rich cinnamon filling that swirls through each layer, topped with a crispy, buttery crust for added crunch. Perfect as an anytime dessert, this cake goes wonderfully with your favourite coffee, offering warmth and comfort with every bite. Get ready to experience a delightful and gluten free bake!
Ingredients
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150 g
Butter, softened
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150 g
Sugar
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50 g
Cane sugar
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2 tsp
Vanilla extract
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2
Eggs
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200 g
Gluten free flour
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2 tsp
Baking powder
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1 pinch
Salt
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Cinnamon filling
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150 g
Cane sugar
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30 g
Almond flour
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2 tsp
Cinnamon, ground
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Topping
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100 g
Cane sugar
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90 g
Gluten free flour
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85 g
Soft butter
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2 tsp
Cinnamon, ground
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1 pinch
Salt
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Instructions
To get a light and tender crumb in your gluten free coffee cake, fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gently. Use a spatula or large spoon to cut through the centre of the batter, sweep along the bottom of the bowl, and turn it over. Rotate the bowl a bit with each fold to mix evenly. This method stops the batter from being overmixed, which can make the texture dense or gummy. Stop folding as soon as the ingredients are just combined, to keep the cake airy and delicate.
It's important to let your gluten free coffee cake cool completely before cutting to maintain its texture and structure. Cooling allows the crumb to set properly, which prevents a gummy or crumbly texture when sliced. Since gluten free cakes are more delicate without gluten's binding properties, cutting them while warm can lead to breakage. Also, allowing the cake to cool keeps the cinnamon-sugar topping crisp and visually appealing. For best results, let the cake cool at room temperature for about an hour before slicing to ensure neat, uniform pieces.
Getting beautiful, even layers is easier than you think with a few expert tricks. First, make sure your batter is smooth and well-mixed, lumps can cause uneven spreading. When layering, use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread the first half of the batter into an even layer in the tin. After adding the cinnamon filling, lightly pat it down to create a flat middle layer that won’t shift. For the top layer of batter, dollop it gently over the filling in several spots, then carefully spread it without dragging the filling up into the batter. Finally, sprinkle the topping evenly across the surface so it bakes into a golden, crumbly crust. These small steps help create clean, defined layers and a coffee cake that looks as good as it tastes.
Questions about this gluten free coffee cake
Have questions about baking the perfect gluten free coffee cake? From flour swaps to batter consistency and pan sizes, here are quick answers to help you adapt the recipe with confidence.
Can I use a different type of gluten free flour in this recipe?
Yes, you can use a different gluten-free flour, but results may vary depending on the blend. For best texture, choose a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour that includes a mix of rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour, these mimic the structure of wheat flour well. If using almond flour or coconut flour, be aware that they absorb moisture differently and may require adjustments to the liquid or fat content. Always check the consistency of your batter – thick but spreadable is ideal – and do a small test bake if you're unsure.
My batter seems thick, is that normal for gluten free coffee cake?
Yes, a thick batter is completely normal. Gluten free flours often absorb more moisture than regular flour, resulting in a denser consistency. As long as the batter is spreadable, you're on the right track. The thick texture actually helps support the cinnamon filling and topping, creating distinct layers that bake up moist and tender. If it feels too stiff to work with, you can add a tablespoon of milk or skyr to loosen it slightly.
Can I bake this in a different sized pan?
Yes, you can bake this gluten free coffee cake in a different sized pan, but a few adjustments may be needed. A larger pan (like 23 x 23 cm) will result in a thinner cake and may bake more quickly, so start checking for doneness 5-10 minutes earlier. A smaller or deeper pan will make the cake thicker and may need extra baking time, just test with a toothpick to ensure the centre is set. Whatever size you choose, be sure to line the pan with baking paper and spread the layers evenly for best results.
Nutritional values
Nutritional value, per
4862 Kcal
| Fibre | 13.3 gram fibers |
| Protein | 46.7 gram |
| Fat | 222.9 gram |
| Carbohydrates | 664.7 gram |
Recommended information
Serving suggestion
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Incorporate the eggs gradually for a smooth, even batter
When making a gluten free coffee cake, adding eggs gradually to the creamed butter and sugar is key. This technique helps the eggs emulsify properly, avoiding curdled batter and keeping air pockets intact for a lighter crumb. Slowly adding the eggs also spreads moisture evenly, making the cake tender. If the mixture looks curdled, just keep mixing; it usually becomes smooth as you continue. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for the best results. This extra step improves both the texture and the look, giving you an airy, well-structured coffee cake.
Skyr: the secret ingredient behind this gluten free coffee cake’s texture
Skyr plays a key role in giving this dessert its moist, tender crumb. Naturally thick and creamy, skyr adds richness without weighing the cake down, helping to balance the structure that gluten free flours sometimes lack.
It also brings a subtle tang that complements the sweet, spiced filling while keeping the cake light and fluffy. Unlike heavier dairy ingredients, skyr blends smoothly into the batter, creating a soft, moist texture that holds up beautifully with each slice. It's the quiet hero that makes this gluten free coffee cake irresistibly good.
Delicious serving and pairing suggestions to try
Gluten free coffee cake is best enjoyed the traditional way: served with a good cup of coffee. Despite the name, coffee cake doesn’t actually contain coffee; it’s named for the custom of enjoying a slice alongside your favourite brew. The sweet cinnamon filling and buttery topping pair beautifully with everything from a bold espresso to a smooth latte.
For even more variety on your dessert table, try these gluten free favourites:
- Gluten free banana bread: moist, rich, and naturally sweetened with ripe bananas, this loaf is enhanced with skyr, dark chocolate, and a delicate crumb.
- Gluten free chocolate cake: deep cocoa flavour meets a tender, nutty texture in this decadent bake. Topped with whipped cream, it's an ideal pairing for coffee.
- Gluten free lemon drizzle cake: light, zesty, and beautifully glazed, this cake adds a refreshing contrast to the warm spices of your coffee cake.
Mix and match these bakes for a gluten free spread that’s full of flavour, texture, and charm.
How should I store gluten free coffee cake to keep it fresh?
To keep your dessert moist and delicious, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If your kitchen is particularly warm, refrigerate it to prevent the topping from softening too much, just bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices, wrapped tightly in cling film and placed in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the oven for a freshly baked feel anytime.
No cinnamon? These spices make great alternatives
Out of cinnamon or just want to try something new? There are plenty of warm, flavourful spices that can step in. Nutmeg offers a sweet, earthy depth, while cardamom brings a slightly citrusy, floral note that pairs beautifully with baked goods.
Allspice is bold and aromatic, think of it as a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in one. You can also try ginger for a gentle heat or a blend of spices like pumpkin spice or apple pie spice for a familiar, cosy flavour. Use these alternatives in the same quantity as cinnamon and adjust to taste for a perfectly spiced gluten free coffee cake.
Why coffee cake makes the ultimate portable dessert
Gluten free coffee cake isn’t just delicious, it’s also incredibly easy to take on the go. Its sturdy texture and layered structure hold up well without crumbling, making it perfect for packed lunches, picnics, road trips, or sharing at work or gatherings. Since it’s flavourful and moist even without frosting, it travels neatly without mess or fuss. Just slice, wrap, pack, and enjoy!
