Apple Coffee Cake (Moist Cinnamon Apple Cake with Crumb Topping)

Introduction

Apple Coffee Cake is the ultimate cozy, comfort-filled bake—soft, moist cake layered with tender cinnamon-spiced apples and topped with a buttery crumb that melts into every bite. Despite its name, coffee cake doesn’t contain coffee; instead, it’s the perfect companion to coffee, making it ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat.

What makes Apple Coffee Cake so irresistible is its balance of textures and flavors. Juicy apples bring natural sweetness and moisture, warm cinnamon adds depth, and the crumb topping delivers a golden, buttery crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake beneath. Every slice tastes like fall comfort, but it’s delicious year-round.

This recipe is a favorite for gatherings because it’s easy to make, travels well, and serves a crowd. It’s equally welcome on a holiday breakfast table, at a weekend brunch, or as a simple dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Even better, Apple Coffee Cake tastes even more flavorful the next day, making it perfect for make-ahead baking.

If you’re looking for a reliable, bakery-style cake that feels homemade, nostalgic, and warmly spiced, this Apple Coffee Cake is a must-bake classic.

Ingredients
Apple Layer

2 cups apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Cake Batter

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

2 large eggs, room temperature

1 cup sour cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

Crumb Topping

½ cup brown sugar

½ cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Optional Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar

2–3 tablespoons milk

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

In a small bowl, toss diced apples with granulated sugar and cinnamon. Set aside to release juices and develop flavor.

Step 3: Make the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in sour cream and vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Spoon half of the apple mixture over the batter. Add remaining batter, then top with remaining apples.

Step 5: Add Crumb Topping and Bake

In a bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the top.

Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool slightly before glazing or serving.

Variations

Apple Walnut Coffee Cake: Add chopped walnuts to the crumb topping.

Caramel Apple Version: Drizzle caramel sauce over cooled cake.

Apple Spice Cake: Add nutmeg and cloves for deeper spice.

Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Muffin Style: Bake in muffin tins for 18–22 minutes.

Cooking Notes

Use firm apples that hold their shape when baked.

Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.

Tent loosely with foil if topping browns too quickly.

Cake sets as it cools—allow resting time before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Apple Coffee Cake warm or at room temperature with coffee, tea, or milk. It’s delicious on its own or topped with powdered sugar, vanilla glaze, or a scoop of ice cream for dessert.

Tips

Dice apples evenly for consistent texture.

Chill crumb topping briefly for extra crunch.

Store tightly covered to maintain moisture.

Flavor improves after resting overnight.

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cooking Time

45 minutes

Total Time

1 hour 5 minutes

Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice)

Calories: 390

Protein: 5g

Sodium: 280mg

FAQs

What apples are best for apple coffee cake?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work best due to firmness and flavor.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day.

Can I freeze apple coffee cake?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Why is it called coffee cake?
It’s meant to be served with coffee, not made with coffee.

Conclusion

Apple Coffee Cake is a comforting, classic bake that delivers tender cake, warm cinnamon apples, and buttery crumb topping in every slice. Easy to prepare and endlessly versatile, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or the next day, this apple-studded coffee cake is a timeless favorite that brings warmth and homemade comfort to any table. 🍎🍰

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