Apple Coffee Cake With Crumb Topping Recipe

There's nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of Apple Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping filling your kitchen. This irresistible dessert combines tender, spiced apples, moist cake, and a buttery crumb topping that melts in your mouth. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, it’s a treat that pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee.

I discovered this recipe on a crisp fall morning when I had an abundance of apples begging to be used. After a few tweaks, it became a family favorite. Today, it’s my go-to dish for gatherings and cozy weekends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping

Get ready to fall head over heels for this delectable apple coffee cake. It’s more than just a dessert – it’s a moment of pure comfort in every bite.

First, it’s easy to make. You don’t need fancy equipment or complicated techniques, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.

Second, it’s packed with autumn flavors. With a hint of cinnamon and the natural sweetness of apples, this cake brings a warm, cozy vibe to your table.

Third, the crumb topping is a game-changer. Buttery, sweet, and slightly crunchy, it perfectly complements the soft cake and juicy apples.

Finally, it’s versatile. Whether you serve it fresh out of the oven or enjoy leftovers the next day, it always delivers. Plus, it’s equally at home on a brunch table or as a sweet treat with coffee after dinner.

Ingredient Notes

This Apple Coffee Cake shines because of its simple yet high-quality ingredients. Here’s what makes each one essential:

• Apples: Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for a balance of tartness and sweetness. Dice them into small pieces for even distribution.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the cake and the crumb topping. Be sure to measure it correctly by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the crumb topping and cake base.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter for the best flavor. It needs to be cold for the crumb topping and softened for the cake batter.
• Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices bring warmth and elevate the natural sweetness of the apples.
• Sour Cream: Keeps the cake moist and tender. You can substitute plain Greek yogurt if needed.
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Ensure the cake rises perfectly.

Special Equipment: A 9-inch round or square baking pan works best for this recipe. If you have a springform pan, it makes removing the cake even easier.

How To Make Apple Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping

Making this coffee cake is a straightforward process, but the results are anything but ordinary. Here’s a step-by-step guide to baking perfection:

1. Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking pan with butter or non-stick spray and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Crumb Topping: In a bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, ⅔ cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Add 6 tablespoon of cold butter and use a pastry cutter (or your hands) to mix until crumbly. Chill in the refrigerator while you make the batter.
3. Make the Cake Batter: Cream ½ cup of softened butter with ¾ cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and ½ cup of sour cream.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Add Apples: Fold in 1 ½ cups of diced apples gently to ensure they’re evenly distributed.
6. Assemble the Cake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the top.
7. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Expect a cake that’s golden brown, fragrant, and simply irresistible.

Storage Options

This coffee cake stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or enjoying leftovers.

• At Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• In the Refrigerator: Extend freshness by storing in the fridge for up to a week. Wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out.
• In the Freezer: Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, making it easy to customize based on your preferences:

• Swap the Apples: Pears or peaches make excellent substitutes. Use the same amount and adjust spices accordingly.
• Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can be mixed into the crumb topping for extra crunch.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute your favorite gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour.
• Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom for a unique twist.
• Lemon Zest: Stir a teaspoon of fresh lemon zest into the batter for a bright, citrusy note.

No matter how you make it, this coffee cake is sure to become a household favorite.

Gather your ingredients and get ready to bake a cake that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a quiet morning at home, this Apple Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping is a recipe you’ll return to time and time again.

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