Apple Pie Coffee Cake Recipe

If you are searching for a cozy, comforting treat that brings together the best of autumn flavors and the warmth of a freshly baked dessert, this Apple Pie Coffee Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender apples infused with cinnamon nestled inside a moist, tender coffee cake topped with a crunchy, buttery streusel that is truly irresistible. This delightful mashup marries the classic charm of apple pie with the easy elegance of a coffee cake, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying a quiet moment with your morning cup of coffee. Once you make this recipe, it might just become your new favorite way to celebrate the flavors of the season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, staple ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious Apple Pie Coffee Cake Recipe. Each component plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture, from the crisp apples to the fluffy cake base and the buttery streusel topping.

• 2 medium apples: Choose Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the perfect balance of tart and sweet that holds up well when baked.
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Sweetens the apple filling while enhancing their natural juices.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds that quintessential warm spice that makes apple desserts so comforting.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the apple filling and prevents browning.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for the cake’s tender crumb.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise for that light texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Enhances leavening and tenderness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and deepens flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Incorporated into the cake batter for a subtle spice.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Makes the batter rich and helps create a soft crumb.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly without overwhelming.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the batter and add moisture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the cake’s flavor profile.
• 1 cup sour cream (or plain yogurt): Adds moisture and tenderizes the crumb with a slight tang.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Used in the streusel topping for that perfect crumbly texture.
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar: Caramel notes boost the streusel’s flavor beautifully.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds balance to the streusel.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Sprinkled in the streusel for consistent spiced goodness.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Creates the crumbly texture of the streusel when cut in.

How to Make Apple Pie Coffee Cake Recipe

Step 1: Make the Apple Filling

Start by tossing your diced apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, and fresh lemon juice in a medium bowl. This not only sweetens and spices the apples but also prevents them from turning brown, allowing those beautiful apple flavors to develop as the cake bakes.

Step 2: Prepare the Streusel Topping

Mix flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Then, use cold cubed butter to cut into the dry ingredients with a pastry cutter or your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs. The cold butter is key here—it creates that ideal crumbly texture that will crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven and Prep Your Pan

Get your oven ready by preheating it to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or an 8×8-inch square baking dish. Proper pan prep ensures your cake will release easily and have an even crust.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This step blends your leavening agents and spices evenly throughout the batter, which will contribute to your coffee cake’s perfect rise and flavor balance.

Step 5: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, usually about 3 to 4 minutes. This process incorporates air for a tender cake and a subtle sweetness.

Step 6: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. Eggs bring structure, while vanilla enhances the cake’s aroma and richness.

Step 7: Combine Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in thirds, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry. This careful layering keeps the batter smooth and moist without overmixing, which can make the cake tough.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake Layers

Spread half of the cake batter into your prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the apple filling evenly over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top and spread it smoothly. Then spoon the rest of the apples atop the cake and finish by sprinkling the streusel topping evenly over everything for that signature crunch.

Step 9: Bake Your Apple Pie Coffee Cake

Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If you notice the top browning too quickly, loosely tent the cake with foil during the last 10 minutes to prevent burning.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This resting time lets the cake set, making it easier to slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve Apple Pie Coffee Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of vanilla glaze instantly elevates this coffee cake. Freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the crumbly streusel and tender apples.

Side Dishes

This coffee cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of spiced chai, rich coffee, or even a comforting mug of hot apple cider for a full-flavored breakfast or afternoon indulgence. A side of fresh fruit or yogurt adds a refreshing balance to the richness of the cake.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming brunch, serve slices of this Apple Pie Coffee Cake Recipe on pretty plates with cinnamon sticks and apple slices as decor. You can also elevate it to a dessert by layering slices with mascarpone and caramel sauce or turning it into a trifling treat using whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Apple Pie Coffee Cake Recipe covered tightly at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to five days. Proper storage preserves moisture and flavor, ensuring every bite tastes fresh and delightful.

Freezing

This coffee cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to three months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator for a no-fuss dessert anytime.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This brings back that freshly baked warmth and restores the delightful texture of the streusel topping.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples in this recipe?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are preferred for their tartness and firmness, you can use any apple you love. Just keep in mind that sweeter apples like Fuji may alter the sweetness of the filling slightly.

Can I substitute sour cream with yogurt?

Yes, plain yogurt is a perfect substitute for sour cream in this recipe. It adds similar moisture and tang without compromising the cake’s texture. Just choose a full-fat variety for best results.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend designed for cakes. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to help maintain structure and texture.

How long will this coffee cake stay moist?

If stored properly in an airtight container, this Apple Pie Coffee Cake Recipe will stay moist and delicious for up to five days. You can also reheat slices to refresh the texture and bring back that just-baked feeling.

Can I add nuts to the streusel topping?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor to the streusel, complementing the apples and cinnamon beautifully. Just mix them into the topping before baking.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Pie Coffee Cake Recipe is a delightful blend of favorite flavors that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with cozy aromas and your heart with joy. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or a special gathering, I encourage you to bake it soon — you’ll be so glad you did!

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