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
Prepare Pan
Line the 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess to hang over the sides for easy removal later.
Time: PT5M
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
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
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
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
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
Transfer to Pan
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan, smoothing the top with the spatula.
Time: PT2M
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
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
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
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
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Coconut Sugar: Brown Sugar, Granulated Sugar
- Instead of Ground Cinnamon: Pumpkin Pie Spice
- Instead of All-Purpose Flour: Whole Wheat Flour, Gluten‑Free Flour Blend
- Instead of Coconut Flour: Almond Flour
- Instead of Unsweetened Applesauce: Mashed Banana, Silken Tofu (blended)
- Instead of Coconut Oil: Vegetable Oil, Melted Vegan Butter
- Instead of Vanilla Extract: Almond Extract
- Instead of Almond Milk: Soy Milk, Oat Milk
- Instead of Maple Syrup: Agave Nectar, Brown Rice Syrup
- Instead of Espresso or Strong Coffee: Strong Brewed Coffee
Equipment Needed
- 9x9 Inch Baking Pan
- Parchment Paper
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber Spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Oven
- Small Saucepan
- Cooling Rack (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- 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.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Sift the flours to prevent clumps and ensure a light crumb.
- Room‑temperature almond milk mixes more evenly with the wet ingredients.
- Using parchment overhang makes removal of the cake effortless and keeps it intact.
Troubleshooting
Cake is raw in the center after the first bake.
Cover the top loosely with foil and continue baking until a toothpick comes out clean; ensure oven temperature is accurate.
Cake is too dense or gummy.
Do not over‑mix the batter and verify that the coconut flour measurement is correct; add an extra tablespoon of almond milk if batter is overly thick.
Glaze hardens too quickly.
Rewarm the glaze gently over low heat and stir in a splash of almond milk to loosen.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store covered in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 2 months.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for up to 1 day if covered.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Bake the cake a day ahead and store in the fridge; reheat slices in the microwave for 20 seconds.
- Glaze can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and reheated gently before drizzling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of vegan coffee cake in American holiday cuisine?
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.
What are the traditional regional variations of coffee cake in American cuisine?
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.
How is coffee cake traditionally served in the United States during the holiday season?
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.
What occasions or celebrations is vegan coffee cake traditionally associated with in American culture?
Coffee cake is common at holiday brunches, Christmas morning breakfasts, Thanksgiving side tables, and casual gatherings where coffee and sweet treats are enjoyed together.
What makes vegan coffee cake special or unique in American bakery traditions?
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.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making vegan coffee cake?
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.
Why does this vegan coffee cake recipe use both baking soda and baking powder instead of just one leavening agent?
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.
Can I make this vegan coffee cake ahead of time and how should I store it?
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.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the vegan coffee cake is done?
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.
What does the YouTube channel Emma Chamberlain specialize in?
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.
How does the YouTube channel Emma Chamberlain's approach to vegan baking differ from other cooking channels?
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.
Last updated: August 30, 2026








