Best Apple Coffee Cake Recipe: Moist, Delicious & Easy to Make

Introduction

When it comes to cozy and comforting baked goods, nothing beats an apple coffee cake recipe. The combination of tart, juicy apples and warm, aromatic cinnamon is a winning flavor match that will have everyone asking for seconds. The best part about this apple coffee cake recipe is that it’s simple to make, yet the result feels indulgent and special. Whether you’re serving it at a family brunch, bringing it to a potluck, or simply enjoying it with a hot cup of coffee, this cake will never disappoint.

Not only is it a great breakfast treat, but it’s also the perfect snack or dessert. Its versatility is one of the reasons why it remains a favorite recipe for bakers of all skill levels. So if you’re ready to create an apple-filled masterpiece that’s sure to impress, keep reading and follow this detailed guide to baking the best apple coffee cake recipe.

Ingredients for Apple Coffee Cake

This apple coffee cake recipe calls for everyday ingredients that are likely already in your pantry or fridge. Each of these components contributes to the cake’s moist texture, sweet flavor, and tender crumb. Let’s break down the essential ingredients for the cake batter, apple filling, and the irresistible streusel topping.

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Apples are the star of the show in this recipe. Granny Smith apples bring a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the cake, while Honeycrisp adds a crisp sweetness.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Flour provides the structure for the cake and helps it rise properly.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds the perfect amount of sweetness to the cake while also helping create a tender crumb.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Butter adds richness and moisture to the cake, giving it a soft and flavorful base.
• 2 large eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s structure.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Vanilla enhances the overall flavor, adding a warm, sweet undertone that complements the apples.
• 1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt: Both options add moisture and tang, resulting in a tender and flavorful cake. Sour cream or yogurt helps keep the cake from drying out.
• 1 tsp baking powder & 1/2 tsp baking soda: These leavening agents are essential for helping the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
• 1/4 tsp salt: A small amount of salt enhances all the other flavors in the cake and balances the sweetness.

For the Streusel Topping:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Brown sugar creates a rich, caramel-like sweetness in the streusel topping.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Butter ensures the streusel is crumbly and adds richness.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Cinnamon adds warmth and spice, making the streusel fragrant and flavorful.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Flour binds the streusel ingredients together and gives it that signature crumbly texture.

These ingredients come together to form a perfectly balanced apple coffee cake recipe that’s moist, tender, and filled with delicious apple flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Apple Coffee Cake

Creating the best apple coffee cake recipe is a straightforward process. However, to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time, it’s essential to follow each step closely. Let’s go through the process in detail.

Step 1: Preparing the Apples

The first step in your apple coffee cake recipe is preparing the apples. As mentioned earlier, Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are great choices for this recipe. They offer the right balance of sweetness and tartness. Begin by peeling the apples, removing the cores, and chopping them into small, uniform pieces. Keep in mind that the apples should be cut into uniform sizes to ensure they bake evenly throughout the cake.

Pro Tip: To prevent the apples from turning brown while you prepare the rest of the ingredients, toss them in a little lemon juice. The acidity of the lemon juice helps preserve the fresh look and flavor of the apples.

Step 2: Making the Cake Batter

Now that your apples are ready, it’s time to make the batter. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until the texture turns soft and airy. This step is important because it creates air pockets in the batter, resulting in a lighter, more tender cake. Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Next, stir in the vanilla extract, which will infuse the cake with an irresistible aroma. In another bowl, combine the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Start with the flour mixture, then add some sour cream, repeating until both are fully incorporated.

The result will be a smooth, thick batter that’s ready to hold those delicious apple pieces.

Step 3: Adding the Apple Layer

Once your cake batter is ready, gently fold in the chopped apples. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the apples to release too much juice, resulting in a soggy cake. Distribute the apples evenly throughout the batter so that every slice of your apple coffee cake recipe is packed with fruit.

Step 4: Preparing the Streusel Topping

The streusel topping is what makes this apple coffee cake recipe extra special. It adds a sweet, buttery crunch that complements the softness of the cake. To make the streusel, combine the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Then, cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or your hands. The goal is to create a mixture that resembles coarse crumbs.

Pro Tip: For an extra crunch, you can add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the streusel topping.

Step 5: Baking the Cake

Now that your cake is assembled, it’s time to bake it to golden perfection. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment for easier removal. Pour the batter into the pan and spread it out evenly. Finally, sprinkle the streusel topping generously over the batter.

Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool fully.

And just like that, your apple coffee cake recipe is ready to enjoy!

Popular Variations of Apple Coffee Cake

What’s great about this apple coffee cake recipe is its adaptability. With just a few tweaks, you can create several delicious variations that cater to different tastes and dietary needs. Below are a few popular options:

Classic Apple Streusel Coffee Cake

This version of the apple coffee cake recipe stays true to the traditional flavors and textures of a coffee cake. The key feature is the buttery streusel topping, which adds a satisfying crunch to every bite. The apples remain the star of the show, with the cinnamon and sugar complementing their natural sweetness. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for casual gatherings or a cozy breakfast at home.

Apple Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Filling

If you’re looking for a more indulgent take on the classic apple coffee cake recipe, adding a cream cheese filling is a fantastic option. To make the filling, mix together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1 egg until smooth. Spread half of the cake batter into the pan, then add the cream cheese layer before topping with the remaining batter and streusel. The result is a decadent, creamy surprise that pairs beautifully with the tart apples.

Gluten-Free Apple Coffee Cake

For those with gluten sensitivities, you can still enjoy this delicious apple coffee cake recipe by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Be sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum or another binder to help the cake hold its structure. While the texture may be slightly denser than the original, the flavor remains just as delightful.

Vegan Apple Coffee Cake

To make a vegan version of this apple coffee cake recipe, you can easily swap out the dairy and eggs. Use a plant-based butter substitute, replace the eggs with flaxseed or chia egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg), and choose dairy-free yogurt or applesauce instead of sour cream. The cake will still turn out moist and flavorful, and everyone can enjoy it.

Spiced Apple Coffee Cake with Pecans

For an extra burst of fall flavor, try adding additional spices such as nutmeg, cloves, or ginger to the batter. You can also mix in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the apples.

Tips for the Best Apple Coffee Cake

Perfecting this apple coffee cake recipe involves a few simple tricks and techniques. Here are some tips to help you make the best version of this cake:

Choosing the Best Apples

When it comes to baking, not all apples have the same qualities. The type of apple you choose can greatly impact the flavor and texture of your apple coffee cake recipe. Granny Smith apples are an excellent choice because their tartness cuts through the sweetness of the cake. However, if you prefer a sweeter cake, Honeycrisp apples offer a nice balance of sweetness and crispness. Avoid using softer apples like Red Delicious, as they tend to become mushy when baked.

Avoiding a Soggy Cake

No one wants a soggy cake. To prevent your apple coffee cake recipe from becoming too wet, make sure to drain any excess juice from the apples before adding them to the batter. You can also toss the apples in a tablespoon of flour to help absorb some of the moisture. This step ensures that your cake remains tender but not overly moist.

Perfecting the Streusel Topping

A great streusel topping is key to a successful apple coffee cake recipe. The secret to a crumbly, delicious streusel is using cold butter. Cold butter creates larger crumbs that hold their shape during baking, giving the cake a satisfying texture. If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, try mixing in some ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cardamom to the streusel mixture.

Enhancing the Apple Flavor

For an even more intense apple flavor, you can sauté the chopped apples with a little butter and cinnamon before adding them to the batter. This step caramelizes the apples slightly, enhancing their natural sweetness and creating a richer flavor throughout the cake.

Serving Suggestions

This apple coffee cake recipe is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways depending on the occasion. Here are a few ideas:

• For breakfast or brunch: Serve the cake warm alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the cake combined with the crunchy streusel makes it a perfect morning treat.
• For dessert: Pair a slice of apple coffee cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The combination of warm cake with cold ice cream creates an absolutely delightful experience.
• As a snack: If you’re looking for a quick snack, enjoy the cake on its own. It’s just sweet enough to satisfy your cravings without being too heavy.

You can store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy the cake later, it freezes well too. Simply wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, let the slices thaw at room temperature before warming them in the oven or microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What kind of apples should I use for apple coffee cake?

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are ideal for this apple coffee cake recipe. Granny Smith apples are tart and firm, which helps balance the sweetness of the cake. Honeycrisp apples are slightly sweeter but still firm, making them another great option. Softer apples like Red Delicious tend to become mushy when baked, so it’s best to avoid them.

Is it possible to prepare apple coffee cake in advance?

Yes! You can easily make this apple coffee cake recipe ahead of time. Once baked, let the cake cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to four days. To serve, simply warm individual slices in the microwave or oven.

Can I freeze apple coffee cake?

Absolutely! This apple coffee cake recipe freezes well. Once the cake has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. You can freeze it for as long as three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let the cake thaw at room temperature and then warm it in the oven or microwave.

How can I make the cake healthier?

If you’d like to make this apple coffee cake recipe healthier, consider swapping out some ingredients. You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber, and replace the butter with a healthier fat like coconut oil. For a lower-sugar option, you can reduce the amount of sugar in both the cake batter and streusel topping or substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

Conclusion

There’s no doubt that this apple coffee cake recipe is a delicious and versatile treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it at breakfast, brunch, or dessert, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. The combination of tart apples, warm cinnamon, and a buttery streusel topping creates a flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, with so many variations and tips available, you can customize this recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

So, why wait? Try out this apple coffee cake recipe today and enjoy the sweet satisfaction of baking a homemade cake filled with apple goodness. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with a new variation, you’re sure to impress your family and friends with this delightful dish. Happy baking!