Cake for breakfast? Absolutely—when it’s light, mildly sweet, and made with wholesome ingredients. A breakfast cake is the perfect way to start your day with something comforting yet not overly indulgent.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make a quick, fluffy breakfast-style cake that pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. Plus, we’ll share ideas to keep it nutritious and satisfying!
What Makes a Cake “Breakfast Friendly”?
- Less sugar than traditional cakes
- Light texture—no heavy frosting
- Often includes fruits, oats, yogurt, or nuts
- Can be made in one bowl for quick prep
- Stays fresh for a couple of days
This is not your rich birthday cake—it’s the humble, cozy kind you enjoy in the morning with a warm drink.
Basic Breakfast Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or mix of flour + oats)
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/2 tsp cinnamon, lemon zest, or chopped nuts
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven
To 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan or small round pan.
2. Mix wet ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, yogurt, oil, sugar, and vanilla.
3. Add dry ingredients
Stir in flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and any optional spices. Mix just until combined.
4. Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes. The top should be golden, and a toothpick should come out clean.
5. Cool
Let it cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Topping and Add-In Ideas
- Fruits: Add blueberries, chopped apples, mashed banana, or sliced strawberries to the batter.
- Nuts: Walnuts, almonds, or pecans give a nice crunch.
- Coconut: Add 1/4 cup shredded coconut for texture and flavor.
- Citrus Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice for a light drizzle.
- Dark Chocolate Chips: A small handful goes a long way—perfect for indulgent mornings!
Tips for the Perfect Breakfast Cake
- Don’t overmix—this keeps the texture tender
- Use Greek yogurt for extra protein
- Want it sweeter? Sprinkle a little brown sugar and cinnamon on top before baking
- Keep it simple—no need for frosting, just a light dusting of powdered sugar works great
Storage
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days
- Great for meal prep—wrap slices individually and freeze
A Cake You Can Feel Good About
Breakfast cake is a cozy, everyday kind of treat—one that makes mornings a little softer and a lot more delicious. It’s easy to prepare, uses basic ingredients, and can be tailored to your taste or pantry staples.
Once you try it, you might just ditch boxed cereal for good.
