Paleo Coffee Cake
There’s something about a warm slice of coffee cake that brings comfort and joy, especially when paired with your favorite cup of coffee or tea. This Paleo Coffee Cake takes all the deliciousness of traditional coffee cake and transforms it into a healthier version that fits within the paleo diet. With its moist texture, crumbly topping, and a hint of sweetness from pure maple syrup, this cake is sure to impress everyone at your breakfast table or brunch gathering. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try and how you can whip it up in your own kitchen!
Why Cooks Rave About It

Cooks rave about this Paleo Coffee Cake for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, even for those who are new to baking. Second, this cake is made with wholesome ingredients that promote health without compromising on taste. The combination of coconut flour and arrowroot flour makes for a delightful texture, while the addition of walnuts and cinnamon gives it a delightful flavor profile. Plus, it’s gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a perfect option for those with dietary restrictions. Lastly, the aroma of this cake baking fills the kitchen, creating an irresistible atmosphere that will have everyone eager to dig in.
Gather These Ingredients
Before you start baking, gather the following ingredients for your Paleo Coffee Cake:
- 1 cup coconut flour – sifted, for a light texture.
- 1 cup arrowroot flour – helps to create a fluffy crumb.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder – to make the cake rise.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt – enhances the flavors.
- 4 eggs – provides structure and moisture.
- 1 cup pure maple syrup – a natural sweetener.
- 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk – adds creaminess.
- 1/2 cup unsalted grass-fed butter – melted, for richness.
- 1 cup raw walnuts – chopped, for a crunchy topping.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – for that warm, cozy flavor.
- Pinch of salt – to balance the sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup – for the topping.
Toolbox for This Recipe
Before you get started, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
- Whisk – to beat the eggs and mix dry and wet ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate measurements.
- Rubber spatula – to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- 9×9 inch baking pan – for baking the cake.
- Parchment paper – optional, for easy removal of the cake.
Stepwise Method: Paleo Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your cake bakes evenly and rises perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan with a little melted coconut oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sifted coconut flour, arrowroot flour, baking powder, and sea salt. Whisk them together until well blended.
Step 4: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the eggs until frothy. Add in the pure maple syrup, full-fat canned coconut milk, and melted grass-fed butter. Whisk until smooth and combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use a rubber spatula to mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Fold in the Walnuts and Cinnamon
Gently fold in the chopped walnuts and ground cinnamon into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Step 7: Pour and Spread
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Use the spatula to spread it evenly across the pan.
Step 8: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the remaining melted butter and 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup. Drizzle this mixture over the top of the batter and sprinkle with a little extra cinnamon if desired.
Step 9: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Holiday-Friendly Variations

This Paleo Coffee Cake is versatile and can be adapted for different occasions. Here are a few holiday-friendly variations:
- For a festive touch, add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or raisins to the batter.
- Incorporate zest from one orange to give a refreshing citrus flavor.
- Substitute the walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- Top with a coconut cream frosting made from whipped coconut milk for a celebratory treat.
Missteps & Fixes
Even the best bakers can run into issues. Here are some common missteps and how to fix them:
- If your coffee cake is too dense, ensure you’re measuring your coconut flour correctly, as it can absorb a lot of moisture.
- If the cake is too dry, consider adding a bit more coconut milk or an additional egg to increase moisture.
- If the cake burns on the edges, reduce the oven temperature slightly and cover the edges with foil halfway through baking.
- For an uneven rise, make sure your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening agents can impact the cake’s texture.
How to Store & Reheat
To keep your Paleo Coffee Cake fresh:
You can store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or pop it in a toaster oven until warmed through. Enjoy it fresh for breakfast or as a delightful snack any time of day!
Common Questions
Can I substitute the coconut flour with regular flour?
No, coconut flour has unique properties that do not substitute well with regular flour. It absorbs more moisture, so adjustments to the recipe would be necessary if you try.
Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Yes, you can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg and let it sit until it thickens.
How can I make this cake sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can increase the amount of maple syrup slightly or add a couple of tablespoons of honey to the batter.
Can I freeze the Paleo Coffee Cake?
Absolutely! Once completely cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Weekend Projects
If you’re looking for more delicious recipes to tackle over the weekend, consider trying these:
- Macadamia Nut Pancakes Recipe – A delightful breakfast option.
- Pumpkin Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies – Perfect for fall gatherings.
- Banana Muffins – A great way to use up ripe bananas.
In Closing
This Paleo Coffee Cake is not only a delicious treat but also a healthier alternative to traditional coffee cakes. With its wholesome ingredients and simple preparation, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack with friends, this cake is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to bake a masterpiece that everyone will love!

Paleo Coffee Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your cake bakes evenly and rises perfectly.
- Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan. Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan with a little melted coconut oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sifted coconut flour, arrowroot flour, baking powder, and sea salt. Whisk them together until well blended.
- Step 4: Whisk the Wet Ingredients. In another bowl, beat the eggs until frothy. Add in the pure maple syrup, full-fat canned coconut milk, and melted grass-fed butter. Whisk until smooth and combined.
- Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use a rubber spatula to mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Step 6: Fold in the Walnuts and Cinnamon. Gently fold in the chopped walnuts and ground cinnamon into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Step 7: Pour and Spread. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Use the spatula to spread it evenly across the pan.
- Step 8: Prepare the Topping. In a small bowl, mix the remaining melted butter and 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup. Drizzle this mixture over the top of the batter and sprinkle with a little extra cinnamon if desired.
- Step 9: Bake. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Step 10: Cool and Serve. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week.
- To reheat, warm a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
