Single Serve Coffee Cake Bliss – Easy Small Batch Recipe

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

Imagine the warmth of freshly baked coffee cake enveloping your kitchen, each sweet and spicy note of cinnamon mingling with the rich aroma of vanilla. I discovered this delightful Single Serve Coffee Cake (Small Batch) recipe one chilly afternoon, when the rain was tapping gently against the window, igniting my desire for something comforting to savor with a cup of coffee.

In just over 25 minutes, you can whip up a decadent treat that is just the right size for one perfect for those solo moments when you crave a little indulgence without the guilt of leftovers. With simple ingredients and effortless steps, this single-serving cake is not just quick to prepare; it s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that rivals any café s offering.

Whether you re treating yourself after a long day or looking to impress a friend with minimal fuss, this little gem will have you basking in the joy of homemade goodness. Let s dive into making that perfect slice of happiness!

Why will you love this Single Serve Coffee Cake?

Ease of Preparation: This quick recipe requires minimal effort and just a few common ingredients found in your kitchen.

Delicious Twist: The combination of vanilla and cinnamon elevates the flavor, making each bite an irresistible treat.

Solo Indulgence: Perfectly portioned for one, it satisfies your sweet cravings without the temptation of leftovers.

Time-Saving: With a baking time of only 24-28 minutes, you can enjoy a delectable cake in no time!

Versatile Delight: Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a cozy dessert paired with your favorite coffee.

This recipe brings the joy of homemade baking into your life with ease and flavor!

Single Serve Coffee Cake Ingredients

For the Batter

• Unsalted butter serves as the base for a rich, creamy texture.
• White granulated sugar adds sweetness that balances the flavors perfectly.
• Egg yolk provides moisture and richness to the cake.
• Vanilla extract infuses the batter with a warm, inviting aroma.
• Sour cream keeps the cake moist and adds a subtle tang.
• Milk helps achieve the perfect batter consistency.
• All-purpose flour gives the cake structure and stability.
• Baking powder ensures the cake rises beautifully.
• Kosher salt enhances the overall flavors and sweetness.

For the Streusel Topping

• All-purpose flour creates a crumbly texture for your topping.
• Brown sugar adds a delightful richness and depth of flavor.
• Ground cinnamon infuses the streusel with a warm, comforting spice.
• Salted butter binds the streusel components together while adding richness.

Indulging in this Single Serve Coffee Cake is not just a treat but a delightful experience, as each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting this cozy dessert!

How to Make Single Serve Coffee Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350 °F and prepare a large ramekin by greasing it with softened butter. This ensures your cake comes out easily and has a lovely, buttery flavor.

2. Mix together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a medium bowl until well combined. Incorporate the egg yolk and vanilla extract, then smoothly blend in the sour cream and milk until creamy.

3. Combine the flour, baking powder, and kosher salt into the mixture. Stir until everything is just combined, being careful not to overmix; it should have a smooth, thick batter.

4. Pour the batter into your greased ramekin, spreading it evenly across the bottom with a spatula. This will help your cake bake uniformly.

5. Prepare the streusel topping by mixing the softened butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and flour in a separate bowl. Aim for a texture similar to wet sand, which will create delightful clumps on top of your cake.

6. Sprinkle the streusel generously over the coffee cake batter in both big and small clumps, allowing the topping to bake into golden perfection.

7. Bake for 24-28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. This ensures a perfectly tender cake.

8. Cool slightly before serving. Gently remove the cake from the ramekin and enjoy it warm, savoring that joyous homemade flavor!

Optional: Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Single Serve Coffee Cake?

Savor the cozy flavors of your coffee cake alongside these delightful pairings that elevate your entire experience.

• Fresh Berries: The natural sweetness and tartness of strawberries or blueberries complement the rich, buttery cake perfectly.
• Whipped Cream: A cloud of freshly whipped cream adds luxurious creaminess, making each bite feel indulgent and light.
• Maple Syrup: Drizzle a little warm maple syrup over your cake for a sweet, sticky touch that enhances its flavor.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Experience a delightful contrast in temperatures and textures; the creamy ice cream balances the warm, tender cake beautifully.
• Coffee or Tea: A hot cup of your favorite brew enhances the spiced notes of cinnamon, making every moment a comforting one.

For a special touch, consider setting your coffee cake on a lovely plate, showering it with a sprinkling of powdered sugar, and serving it warm a perfect way to enjoy how the Single Serve Coffee Cake delights the senses!

Make Ahead Options

These Single Serve Coffee Cake delights are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the wet and dry ingredients together, then cover and refrigerate. The streusel topping can also be made and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge, ensuring it stays fresh and crumbly. When you re ready to indulge, just pour the batter into your ramekin, top it with the streusel, and bake as directed enjoying a warm, homemade treat without the last-minute hassle! This way, you can enjoy a comforting slice any time you crave it!

Expert Tips for Single Serve Coffee Cake

• Perfect Greasing: Make sure to grease your ramekin thoroughly with softened butter to prevent sticking and ensure a beautiful cake release.

• Streusel Consistency: Aim for your streusel to resemble wet sand. If it s too dry, it won t clump properly, so adjust the butter or sugar as needed.

• Don t Overmix: When combining the batter ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can make your cake dense rather than fluffy.

• Watch Your Bake Time: Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Every oven is different, so checking around the 24-minute mark is key to perfect timing.

• Serving Warm: Enjoy your Single Serve Coffee Cake warm from the oven for an indulgent experience; the flavors truly shine best this way.

Single Serve Coffee Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize your Single Serve Coffee Cake with these delightful twists!

• Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use almond or oat milk to keep your cake deliciously moist without dairy.

• Nutty Crunch: Add a tablespoon of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for an extra crunch that enhances texture and flavor.

• Chocolate Delight: Incorporate a tablespoon of mini chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet surprise that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon.

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the streusel topping for an aromatic twist that brings depth to your cake.

• Fruit-Filled: Toss in some fresh blueberries or raspberries into the batter for a burst of fruity goodness that complements the cake.

• Pumpkin Spice: Replace half the sour cream with pumpkin puree and add a bit more cinnamon for a seasonal treat that s perfect for autumn.

• Maple Syrup: Swap out the granulated sugar for maple syrup in the batter to infuse a rich, natural sweetness throughout.

• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a cake that everyone can enjoy without compromising on taste.

How to Store and Freeze Single Serve Coffee Cake

Room Temperature: Enjoy your Single Serve Coffee Cake fresh for up to 2 days, covered loosely with foil or plastic wrap to keep it moist and delicious.

Fridge: If you have leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave for about 10 15 seconds for a warm treat.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. They ll stay fresh for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To bring your frozen Single Serve Coffee Cake back to life, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven at 350 °F for about 10 minutes for the best taste and texture.

Single Serve Coffee Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ingredients for my coffee cake?
Absolutely! For the freshest taste, use room-temperature ingredients such as softened butter and egg yolk. When selecting your butter, look for a rich, creamy texture and a pleasant aroma. Your flour should be fresh, without clumps, while your spices, like ground cinnamon, should be fragrant. Opt for a sour cream that is creamy and smooth; this will ensure your cake stays moist and flavorful.

What is the best way to store leftover single serve coffee cake?
Very! If you have any leftovers, store your Single Serve Coffee Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For the best flavor retention, gently cover it with foil or wrap. If you notice the cake drying out, aim for a cake that is airy and fluffy when served; this helps it taste fresh!

Can I freeze my single serve coffee cake? How should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your Single Serve Coffee Cake, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then cover them again with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They ll last well and maintain their quality for up to 2 months. When you re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and then reheat in the oven at 350 °F for about 10 minutes. This ensures every bite retains that freshly-baked flavor.

What should I do if my coffee cake is too dense?
Oh, I know the feeling! If your coffee cake turns out too dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter. When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Another possible reason could be using too much flour, so try spooning the flour into your measuring cup rather than scooping, which can compact it and result in a heavier cake. Following these tips will give you that fluffy texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for my coffee cake?
Very! If you re making this Single Serve Coffee Cake for someone with allergies, it s important to note that this recipe includes gluten and dairy. If you need to cater to special diets, consider using gluten-free flour blends and a dairy-free alternative for sour cream and butter. This way, everyone can enjoy this delightful treat without concern!