There’s something magical about the aroma of apple cinnamon coffee cake baking in the oven on a crisp morning. This irresistible treat combines tender chunks of fresh apples with warm cinnamon spice, creating the perfect companion for your favorite cup of coffee or tea.
We’ve perfected this recipe to deliver a moist, flavorful cake that’s surprisingly simple to make. The secret lies in the perfect balance of sweet-tart apples and a generous cinnamon swirl that runs throughout every bite. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or looking for a cozy dessert, this coffee cake never fails to impress.
What makes our version special is the crumb topping that adds delightful texture contrast to the tender cake beneath. You’ll love how the kitchen fills with incredible scents while it bakes, and your family will be asking for seconds before you’ve even finished your first slice.
Ingredients
This apple cinnamon coffee cake requires simple pantry staples that create extraordinary flavor. We’ve organized the ingredients by component to make preparation seamless and efficient.
For the Coffee Cake Base
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Apple Cinnamon Filling
- 3 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced into 1/4-inch pieces
- 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
Equipment Needed
We recommend gathering all necessary equipment before starting our apple cinnamon coffee cake recipe. Having the right tools makes the baking process smoother and ensures better results.
Essential Baking Equipment:
- 9-inch square baking pan – This size provides the perfect depth for our coffee cake layers
- Large mixing bowls – We need at least two separate bowls for combining wet and dry ingredients
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer – Essential for creaming butter and sugar to achieve proper texture
- Medium saucepan – Required for preparing our apple cinnamon filling
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time
Preparation Tools:
- Sharp knife – We use this for dicing our Granny Smith apples into uniform pieces
- Cutting board – Provides a stable surface for apple preparation
- Pastry cutter or two forks – Perfect for creating our crumbly streusel topping texture
- Rubber spatula – Helps us fold ingredients together without overmixing
- Wire cooling rack – Allows proper air circulation for cooling our finished coffee cake
Additional Helpful Items:
- Parchment paper – Makes removal from the pan effortless and prevents sticking
- Cooking spray or butter – We use this for greasing our baking pan
- Small bowl – Handy for mixing our dry spices together before adding to other ingredients
Most home bakers already own these standard kitchen tools. We find that using the proper equipment significantly improves both the baking experience and final results of our apple cinnamon coffee cake.
Prep Work
Before we begin mixing our coffee cake batter, we need to prepare the key components that will make this apple cinnamon coffee cake exceptional. Getting these elements ready ahead of time ensures smooth assembly and perfect results.
Preparing the Apples
We start by selecting the right apple variety for our coffee cake. Granny Smith apples work perfectly because they provide the ideal balance of sweet and tart flavors that complement the cinnamon beautifully.
First, we peel each apple completely using a sharp paring knife or vegetable peeler. Next, we core the apples and remove any seeds or tough portions. For this recipe, we need to shred the apples rather than chop them, which helps them distribute evenly throughout the cake and prevents large chunks from creating air pockets.
Using a box grater or food processor with a shredding attachment, we shred the prepared apples until we have 1 ½ cups of shredded apple. The shredded texture allows the apples to release their moisture gradually during baking, keeping our coffee cake perfectly moist without making it soggy.
Making the Streusel Topping
Our streusel topping creates that irresistible crunchy contrast against the tender coffee cake beneath. This buttery mixture transforms into golden clusters that add both texture and visual appeal to our finished cake.
We combine 1 ¼ cups of brown sugar with 1 tablespoon of cinnamon in a medium bowl. The brown sugar provides deep caramel notes while the cinnamon reinforces our apple filling flavors. We add 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract to enhance the overall depth of our streusel.
Next, we incorporate ½ cup of chopped pecans into our dry mixture. The nuts add a delightful crunch and complement the apple cinnamon combination perfectly. Finally, we drizzle melted butter over our dry ingredients and mix everything together until the mixture forms coarse, crumbly clusters.
Our streusel should hold together lightly when squeezed but still break apart easily when sprinkled over the cake. This texture ensures we get those perfect golden brown clusters that make coffee cake so appealing.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients prepped and equipment ready, let’s create this delicious apple cinnamon coffee cake step by step. We’ll build layers of flavor through careful assembly and attention to detail.
Making the Coffee Cake Batter
We begin by combining our dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Sift together the 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt until evenly distributed.
In our stand mixer or using a hand mixer, we cream the 1 cup granulated sugar and ½ cup softened butter until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process typically takes 3 to 4 minutes on medium speed.
Next, we add our 2 eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure proper incorporation. The mixture should be smooth before adding the next egg.
We alternate adding our dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, starting with half of our flour mixture. Mix until just combined, then add the ½ cup sour cream or milk, followed by the remaining flour mixture. We stop mixing as soon as the ingredients come together to avoid overworking the batter.
Assembling the Cake
We start by spraying our 9-inch square baking pan with non-stick spray, ensuring complete coverage on all sides and corners.
Carefully spread half of our prepared batter into the bottom of the pan using a rubber spatula. We create an even layer that reaches all corners without pressing down too firmly.
Our prepared shredded apples go directly over this first layer of batter. We distribute them evenly across the surface, ensuring every bite will contain tender apple pieces.
Using a spoon or our rubber spatula, we dollop the remaining batter over the apple layer. We don’t need to spread it perfectly smooth as this rustic appearance adds to the cake’s homestyle charm.
Adding the Streusel Topping
In a separate bowl, we combine our streusel ingredients: flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and cold softened butter. Using our fingers or a pastry cutter, we work these ingredients together until they form a crumbly texture with pea-sized pieces.
We sprinkle this streusel mixture evenly over the top of our assembled cake, covering the entire surface for maximum crunch and flavor.
Our oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C) before we place the pan on the center rack. We bake for 35 to 40 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. When it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, our apple cinnamon coffee cake is ready.
Baking Directions
We begin our baking process by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing our 9-inch square baking pan with a light coating of non-stick spray. This essential first step ensures even baking temperature and prevents sticking during the removal process.
Preparing the Cake Batter
First, we sift together our dry ingredients including all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl, then set this mixture aside for later use. In a separate small bowl, we combine the sour cream and milk, whisking gently to create a smooth wet ingredient base.
Using our electric mixer, we cream the granulated sugar and softened unsalted butter until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, typically requiring 3 to 4 minutes of beating. Next, we add our eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure proper incorporation and smooth texture.
We alternate adding our flour mixture and sour cream mixture to the creamed butter base, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. This alternating method prevents overmixing while ensuring all ingredients combine evenly throughout the batter.
Assembling the Coffee Cake
We spread half of our prepared batter evenly across the bottom of our greased baking pan, creating a smooth foundation layer. Over this base, we distribute our prepared apple cinnamon filling, ensuring even coverage across the entire surface without leaving gaps.
Carefully, we dollop the remaining batter over the apple filling, using a spatula to spread it gently without disturbing the apple layer beneath. The top layer doesn’t need perfect coverage since the crumb topping will complete the surface.
Creating the Crumb Topping
In a small bowl, we combine flour, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon, mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly. We add melted butter gradually while stirring with a fork until the mixture forms coarse, crumbly pieces that hold together when pressed.
Final Baking Steps
We sprinkle our prepared crumb topping evenly over the entire surface of the assembled cake, ensuring complete coverage for optimal texture and appearance. The crumb mixture should distribute naturally without requiring heavy pressing or packing.
Our assembled coffee cake bakes for 35 to 45 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. During baking, the crumb topping transforms into golden clusters while the cake develops its characteristic tender crumb structure.
We remove the finished coffee cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before serving. This cooling period helps the cake set properly and makes slicing much easier while maintaining the perfect texture balance between the tender cake and crispy topping.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Room Temperature Storage
We recommend storing your apple cinnamon coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The cake delivers optimal flavor and texture within the first two days since the streusel topping maintains its delightful crunch during this period. After 48 hours the streusel begins to soften naturally.
Keep the cake away from direct sunlight and moisture sources to preserve its freshness. Areas near windows or humid kitchen zones can compromise the cake’s quality and reduce its shelf life.
Refrigeration
For extended storage we suggest placing the covered cake in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This method works exceptionally well when you want to maintain peak freshness beyond the initial few days at room temperature.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze your coffee cake properly we start by allowing it to cool completely to room temperature. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn and maintain moisture.
Place the wrapped cake inside an airtight container or freezer safe bag for maximum protection. Frozen cakes maintain their quality for up to 2 months when stored correctly.
When ready to serve we recommend thawing the cake overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for several hours. This gradual thawing process helps preserve the cake’s original texture and prevents condensation issues.
Make Ahead Strategies
We can prepare the entire cake up to one day in advance and store it at room temperature or in the refrigerator depending on your timeline. This approach works perfectly for busy schedules and planned gatherings.
Consider assembling the streusel topping just before serving to maintain its signature crunch. The contrast between the tender cake and crispy topping creates the ideal textural experience we all love.
Baking the cake as needed provides flexibility while advance storage offers convenience for entertaining. Both approaches ensure you can enjoy fresh apple cinnamon coffee cake whenever the craving strikes.
Serving Suggestions
We recommend serving this apple cinnamon coffee cake warm from the oven when the streusel topping maintains its perfect crunch and the apple filling releases its aromatic steam. The cake pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee or spiced chai tea, creating a cozy breakfast or brunch experience that guests will remember.
Our coffee cake shines brightest during morning gatherings and holiday events where its comforting aroma fills the room. We suggest cutting the cake into generous squares and placing them on individual plates alongside small forks for easy enjoyment. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant finishing touch that enhances the cake’s visual appeal.
For special occasions, we love serving thin slices with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool creaminess balances the warm spices perfectly while complementing the tender cake texture. We often garnish each serving with a thin apple slice or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for added presentation value.
Our apple cinnamon coffee cake works wonderfully as a centerpiece for brunch buffets where guests can help themselves throughout the gathering. We recommend keeping the cake covered with a clean kitchen towel to maintain moisture while preserving the streusel’s delightful crunch. The cake’s portable nature makes it ideal for potluck dinners and office gatherings where easy serving is essential.
We find this coffee cake particularly satisfying when served alongside other breakfast favorites like scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or fresh fruit salad. The sweet and spiced flavors provide a perfect contrast to savory morning dishes while offering a comforting end to any meal.
Recipe Variations
Apple cinnamon coffee cake adapts beautifully to different flavor profiles and textures. We can transform our base recipe into several delicious variations that showcase unique ingredients and techniques.
Apple Streusel Coffee Cake
This classic variation features a generous streusel topping that creates irresistible texture contrast. We combine 1¾ cups flour with 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt for our cake base. The wet ingredients include 6 tablespoons butter, 1/3 cup sugar, ¼ cup brown sugar, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla, and ¾ cup buttermilk.
Our apple filling blends 1½ cups diced apples with ½ cup brown sugar, 1½ tablespoons flour, and 1½ teaspoons cinnamon. The signature streusel topping combines 2/3 cup flour, ½ cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 4 tablespoons soft butter until crumbly.
Brown Sugar Streusel Coffee Cake
Fall flavors shine in this variation that emphasizes warm spices and rich brown sugar notes. We incorporate apple chunks throughout the batter while topping the cake with a sweet brown sugar streusel mixture. This version pairs perfectly with autumn gatherings and showcases seasonal apple varieties at their peak flavor.
Sour Cream Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake
Sour cream creates exceptional moisture and tang in this sophisticated variation. We use 1¾ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt as our dry foundation. The wet ingredients feature ¾ cup sour cream, ¼ cup milk, 8 tablespoons butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, and 1½ cups shredded apples.
This version works beautifully in a cheesecake or springform pan for elegant presentation. The sour cream base provides a tender crumb that complements the cinnamon apple layer perfectly.
| Variation | Key Ingredient | Texture Profile | Best Pan Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Streusel | Buttermilk | Tender with crunchy top | 9-inch square |
| Brown Sugar Streusel | Apple chunks | Dense with sweet topping | 9-inch round |
| Sour Cream | Shredded apples | Extra moist and tangy | Springform |
These variations allow us to customize our apple cinnamon coffee cake based on available ingredients and desired presentation style. Each version maintains the beloved apple cinnamon flavor while offering distinct textures and visual appeal.
Conclusion
We’ve created the ultimate guide to help you master this beloved apple cinnamon coffee cake recipe. From selecting the perfect Granny Smith apples to achieving that golden crumbly streusel topping every baker dreams of achieving.
This versatile treat transforms any ordinary morning into something special. Whether you’re hosting weekend brunch or simply treating yourself to a homemade delight the combination of tender cake warm spices and crunchy topping delivers pure comfort in every bite.
The beauty lies in its adaptability – you can prepare components ahead of time customize with our suggested variations or serve it exactly as written. Either way you’ll have a bakery-quality coffee cake that rivals any professional kitchen and fills your home with irresistible aromas that bring everyone together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of apples work best for apple cinnamon coffee cake?
Granny Smith apples are ideal for this coffee cake because they hold their shape well during baking and provide a perfect tart-sweet balance. Their firm texture prevents the cake from becoming soggy, while their tartness complements the sweet cinnamon flavors beautifully.
How long does apple cinnamon coffee cake stay fresh?
Apple cinnamon coffee cake stays fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature when stored in an airtight container. For optimal flavor and texture, it’s best enjoyed within the first two days. You can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 2 months.
Can I make apple cinnamon coffee cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the coffee cake a day in advance. For best results, assemble the cake but prepare the streusel topping separately and add it just before baking. This ensures the streusel maintains its crunchy texture and doesn’t become soggy.
What equipment do I need to make this coffee cake?
Essential equipment includes a 9-inch square baking pan, large mixing bowls, an electric hand mixer or stand mixer, medium saucepan, measuring cups and spoons, sharp knife, cutting board, pastry cutter, rubber spatula, and wire cooling rack for optimal results.
How do I know when the coffee cake is done baking?
Bake the coffee cake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-45 minutes. It’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The streusel topping should be golden brown and the cake should spring back when lightly touched.
What are the best serving suggestions for apple cinnamon coffee cake?
Serve the coffee cake warm from the oven to maintain the streusel’s crunch and enhance the apple filling’s aroma. It pairs perfectly with coffee or spiced chai tea. For special occasions, add a dusting of powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Can I customize the apple cinnamon coffee cake recipe?
Yes, there are several variations you can try. Consider making Apple Streusel Coffee Cake with extra streusel, Brown Sugar Streusel Coffee Cake with warm spices, or Sour Cream Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake for added moisture and tang while maintaining the beloved apple cinnamon flavor profile.
