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. 🍎🍰
