LET'S MAKE SOME COFFEE CAKE

LET'S MAKE SOME COFFEE CAKE is a medium American recipe that serves 8. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by emma chamberlain on YouTube.

Prep: 25 min | Cook: 50 min | Total: 1 hr 30 min

Cost: $4.52 total, $0.56 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup Coconut Sugar (for batter sweetness and crumb topping)
  • 2 tsp Ground Cinnamon (divided between batter and crumb topping)
  • 1 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour (sifted)
  • 1/4 cup Coconut Flour (adds moisture and subtle coconut flavor)
  • 1 tsp Baking Soda
  • 1 tsp Baking Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 cup Unsweetened Applesauce (egg substitute)
  • 1/3 cup Coconut Oil (melted, liquid)
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 1 cup Almond Milk (unsweetened, room temperature)
  • 1/4 cup Maple Syrup (for glaze, vegan honey substitute)
  • 2 tbsp Espresso or Strong Coffee (cooled, for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Pan

    Line the 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess to hang over the sides for easy removal later.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Make Cinnamon‑Sugar Topping

    In a small bowl combine 1/4 cup coconut sugar with 1 tsp ground cinnamon; stir until evenly coated.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl whisk together 1 1/2 cups all‑purpose flour, 1/4 cup coconut flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and the remaining 1 tsp cinnamon.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Combine Wet Ingredients

    In another bowl whisk 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce, 1/3 cup melted coconut oil, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1 cup almond milk until smooth.

    Time: PT5M

  5. Combine Wet and Dry

    Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir with a rubber spatula until just combined; the batter will be slightly thick.

    Time: PT3M

  6. Fold in Cinnamon‑Sugar Crumble

    Gently fold the cinnamon‑sugar mixture from step 2 into the batter, creating small pockets of sweet crumb.

    Time: PT2M

  7. Transfer to Pan

    Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan, smoothing the top with the spatula.

    Time: PT2M

  8. First Bake

    Place the pan in a pre‑heated oven at 350°F and bake for 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

    Time: PT35M

    Temperature: 350°F

  9. Prepare Maple‑Espresso Glaze

    While the cake bakes, combine 1/4 cup maple syrup, 2 tbsp cooled espresso, and a pinch of cinnamon in a small saucepan; warm over low heat for 2‑3 minutes until glossy.

    Time: PT5M

  10. Add Glaze and Finish Baking

    When the initial bake is done, remove the cake, drizzle the warm glaze evenly over the surface, then return to the oven for an additional 15 minutes to set the glaze.

    Time: PT15M

    Temperature: 350°F

  11. Cool and Serve

    Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a cooling rack for 10 minutes, then lift using the parchment overhang and transfer to a serving plate. Slice and enjoy with a cup of coffee or latte.

    Time: PT10M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
250
Protein
3g
Carbohydrates
35g
Fat
10g
Fiber
2g

Dietary info: Vegan, Dairy‑Free, Egg‑Free

Allergens: coconut, nuts

Last updated: April 16, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

LET'S MAKE SOME COFFEE CAKE

Recipe by emma chamberlain

A cozy, holiday‑inspired vegan coffee cake with a buttery crumb topping and a maple‑espresso glaze. Inspired by Emma Chamberlain’s chaotic kitchen adventure, this recipe swaps eggs for applesauce, uses coconut sugar for sweetness, and pairs perfectly with a warm almond‑milk latte.

MediumAmericanServes 8

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
37m
Prep
55m
Cook
11m
Cleanup
1h 43m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$4.52
Total cost
$0.56
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Pre‑heat oven and bake at the correct temperature.
  • Do not over‑mix the batter.
  • Ensure the glaze is warm but not boiling before drizzling.
  • Allow the cake to set after the second bake before slicing.

Safety Warnings

  • Handle the hot oven and baking pan with oven mitts.
  • Coconut oil is hot when melted; avoid splashes.
  • Espresso glaze is hot; stir carefully to avoid burns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of vegan coffee cake in American holiday cuisine?

A

Coffee cake originated in the United States as a simple, sweet loaf served alongside coffee during gatherings. While traditionally made with butter and eggs, modern vegan versions honor the same comforting tradition while catering to plant‑based diets, making it a popular holiday treat for inclusive celebrations.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of coffee cake in American cuisine?

A

In the Midwest, coffee cake often features a streusel crumb topping; in the South, it may include a buttery pecan layer. Emma Chamberlain’s version uses a cinnamon‑sugar crumble and a maple‑espresso glaze, blending classic Midwest crumb with a coffee‑centric twist.

cultural
Q

How is coffee cake traditionally served in the United States during the holiday season?

A

It is typically sliced and served warm alongside a hot cup of coffee or a latte, sometimes dusted with powdered sugar. The cake is a staple at brunches, potlucks, and festive family breakfasts.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is vegan coffee cake traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

Coffee cake is common at holiday brunches, Christmas morning breakfasts, Thanksgiving side tables, and casual gatherings where coffee and sweet treats are enjoyed together.

cultural
Q

What makes vegan coffee cake special or unique in American bakery traditions?

A

The vegan version swaps dairy and eggs for plant‑based alternatives like applesauce and coconut oil, yet retains the moist crumb and sweet topping that define classic coffee cake, offering a compassionate twist without sacrificing flavor.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making vegan coffee cake?

A

Common errors include over‑mixing the batter, using too much coconut flour (which can make the cake dry), and under‑baking the center. Also, be careful not to overheat the maple‑espresso glaze, which can become grainy.

technical
Q

Why does this vegan coffee cake recipe use both baking soda and baking powder instead of just one leavening agent?

A

Baking soda reacts with the acidity from the applesauce and espresso, providing lift early in the bake, while baking powder offers additional rise throughout the baking process, ensuring a light, airy crumb.

technical
Q

Can I make this vegan coffee cake ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, bake the cake a day ahead, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and refrigerate. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or enjoy cold; the glaze stays glossy after gentle reheating.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the vegan coffee cake is done?

A

The top should be golden‑brown with a slightly crisp cinnamon‑sugar crust, and a toothpick inserted near the center should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. The glaze should be glossy and set lightly.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Emma Chamberlain specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Emma Chamberlain focuses on lifestyle vlogs, candid humor, and occasional cooking experiments where she shares relatable, often improvised recipes with a personal, unfiltered style.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Emma Chamberlain's approach to vegan baking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Emma Chamberlain’s approach is spontaneous and humor‑driven, often mixing candid commentary with the cooking process, whereas many other channels present polished, step‑by‑step tutorials. Her recipes reflect real‑world improvisation, making them feel accessible and authentic.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

Vegan Chocolate Little Layer Cake ❤️ Indulgent & Easy To Make!
3

Vegan Chocolate Little Layer Cake ❤️ Indulgent & Easy To Make!

A miniature, vegan version of the classic Southern Smith Island chocolate layer cake. Thin, spongy chocolate layers are stacked with a silky date‑sweetened chocolate frosting. Perfect for a special treat or a small gathering.

1 hr 26 minServes 4$22
American
Easy Vegan Lemon Cake
5

Easy Vegan Lemon Cake

A quick, moist, and tangy vegan lemon cake made with pantry staples. The cake is light, fluffy, and topped with a smooth lemon‑flavored vegan cream cheese frosting—perfect for any celebration or everyday treat.

1 hr 50 minServes 8$5
American
Easy Vegan Cake Recipe
4

Easy Vegan Cake Recipe

A simple, one‑bowl vegan almond‑flavored cake topped with a smooth vegan buttercream frosting. Made with pantry staples like all‑purpose flour, almond milk, and vegetable shortening, this cake is perfect for celebrations or everyday treats.

1 hr 35 minServes 12$15
American
BEST VEGAN VANILLA CAKE
3

BEST VEGAN VANILLA CAKE

A fluffy, moist, and tender vegan vanilla cake topped with a silky vegan buttercream frosting. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration, and it freezes beautifully for make‑ahead desserts.

1 hr 25 minServes 12$7
American
Vegan Carrot Cake (super moist)
6

Vegan Carrot Cake (super moist)

A moist, spiced vegan carrot cake packed with grated carrots, walnuts, and raisins, topped with a tangy vegan cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or a comforting treat.

1 hr 40 minServes 12$10
American
Simple Vegan Carrot Cake NO ONE Will Know Is Vegan!
11

Simple Vegan Carrot Cake NO ONE Will Know Is Vegan!

A moist, fluffy vegan carrot cake made with a flax‑egg, applesauce and a reduced amount of oil and sugar. Topped with a rich vegan cream cheese frosting that can be sweetened to taste. Perfect for Easter or any celebration, and budget‑friendly at about $5 per cake.

1 hr 32 minServes 12$36
American
Easy Vegan Carrot Cake
7

Easy Vegan Carrot Cake

A moist, spiced vegan carrot cake packed with grated carrots, walnuts, and raisins, topped with a tangy lemon‑zest vegan cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or a comforting dessert.

1 hr 25 minServes 12$8
American
The Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies!
3

The Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies!

These ultra‑rich, super fudgy vegan brownies are made with melted dark chocolate, oat milk, and a handful of chocolate chips. The recipe is quick, uses pantry staples, and delivers a dense, melt‑in‑your‑mouth texture without any dairy or eggs.

48 minServes 12$6
American