Apple Coffee Cake With Crumb Topping Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting scent of apple coffee cake with crumb topping filling your kitchen on a crisp morning. This delightful treat brings together tender spiced apples, moist cake, and a buttery, crumbly topping that feels like a warm hug in every bite.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe while experimenting with autumn flavors for a brunch gathering. To my surprise, it became the star of the table, with everyone asking for seconds – and the recipe. Since then, it’s been my go-to for everything from holiday breakfasts to casual afternoon treats.

Why You'll Love This Apple Coffee Cake With Crumb Topping

Get ready to meet your new favorite dessert-meets-breakfast dish. This apple coffee cake is so much more than a simple bake – it’s a cozy masterpiece.

The combination of flavors and textures is irresistible. Soft, spiced apples melt into the moist, tender cake, while the golden crumb topping adds a buttery crunch that takes it over the top.

It’s surprisingly simple to make. You don’t need any fancy equipment or ingredients – just a bit of mixing, layering, and baking. Even if you’re a beginner, this recipe is virtually foolproof.

The versatility is a bonus. Whether you’re enjoying it warm with a cup of coffee or packing it up for a potluck, this cake suits every occasion.

Best of all, it’s the perfect way to use up fresh apples. If you’ve got a basket of apples from a fall orchard visit or a surplus from the market, this is the recipe to make.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this apple coffee cake lies in its combination of simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect bite.

Start with fresh apples. Granny Smith apples are my favorite for their tartness, which balances the sweetness of the cake. However, you can also use Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter touch. Peel and dice them into small, even pieces for consistent texture.

The crumb topping is the star of the show. A mixture of all-purpose flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter creates a perfectly crumbly texture. Make sure your butter is cold and cubed – this helps create those signature crunchy bits.

For the cake base, a blend of all-purpose flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and sour cream ensures a moist, tender crumb. The sour cream adds a subtle tang while keeping the cake soft for days.

Don’t forget the spices. A mix of cinnamon and nutmeg in the batter and topping gives the cake its signature warmth and aroma.

If you have a springform pan, use it for this recipe. It makes removing the cake a breeze, especially when serving guests. Otherwise, a standard 9-inch round or square pan works just as well.

How To Make This Apple Coffee Cake With Crumb Topping

Creating this apple coffee cake is easier than you think. Follow these steps for a guaranteed delicious result.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing your pan. This ensures the cake doesn’t stick and comes out cleanly.

Begin with the crumb topping. In a bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.

Next, prepare the batter. In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and sour cream. The sour cream gives the cake its moist texture.

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

Fold in the diced apples gently, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it into an even layer.

Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the batter, covering the surface completely. This will create the cake’s signature golden, crunchy top.

Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing to allow the flavors to meld.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely), this cake stores beautifully.

To keep it fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place it in the refrigerator, where it will stay moist and delicious for up to 5 days.

Want to enjoy it later? Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw them overnight in the fridge, and reheat in the microwave or oven for that just-baked warmth.

Reheating tip: Pop a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm it in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. This will refresh the crumb topping and soften the cake.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are some fun ways to customize it:

Swap the apples for pears. They add a slightly sweeter, more delicate flavor that’s equally delightful.

Add nuts to the topping. A handful of chopped pecans or walnuts brings extra crunch and nutty depth to the cake.

Make it gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Try different spices. Add a pinch of cardamom or allspice for an exotic twist.

For a festive touch, drizzle the cooled cake with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk. It adds a sweet finishing touch that’s perfect for special occasions.

With this recipe in your repertoire, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing treat ready for any gathering. So, grab your favorite apples and get baking – you’re in for a deliciously cozy treat!

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