Apple Pie Coffee Cake Recipe

There is something utterly irresistible about the warm aroma of cinnamon-spiced apples mingling with golden cake in every bite, which is exactly why this Apple Pie Coffee Cake Recipe has become a beloved treat in my kitchen. Combining the comforting flavors of classic apple pie with the soft, tender crumb of coffee cake, this dessert is perfect for cozy mornings, casual get-togethers, or simply brightening up any day. It hits all the right notes between sweet, tangy, and buttery, making it a must-try for anyone who loves a homey, nostalgic dessert that’s effortlessly delightful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple yet essential ingredients each play a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of texture, flavor, and aroma in the Apple Pie Coffee Cake Recipe. From the crisp apples to the rich butter and fragrant cinnamon, every component works in harmony to create a truly memorable treat.

• 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Choose these crisp, tart varieties for bright flavor and perfect texture in the apple filling.
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to the apple mixture.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses cozy warmth and spice to the apples and cake.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Keeps the apples fresh and tangy while balancing sweetness.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base structure for the tender coffee cake crumb.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise fluffy and light.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the sour cream to create lift and softness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, preventing the cake from tasting flat.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Added to the batter for an extra cinnamon kick throughout.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides rich moisture and buttery flavor to the cake.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while helping to create a light texture when creamed with butter.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure to the cake.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Lifts the flavors with a sweet, aromatic note.
• 1 cup sour cream (or plain yogurt): Adds moisture and a subtle tang, enriching the crumb.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for streusel): Base for the crumbly, buttery topping.
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (for streusel): Gives a deep caramel sweetness to the streusel topping.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for streusel): Balances the brown sugar in the crumbly topping.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for streusel): A final dash of spice in the streusel to tie it all together.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed (for streusel): Creates the signature crumbly texture when cut into the streusel mixture.

How to Make Apple Pie Coffee Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Start by peeling, coring, and dicing your apples. Toss them with granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice in a medium bowl. Letting this mixture sit for a few minutes allows the flavors to marry beautifully, and the lemon juice keeps the apples from browning, making sure your filling stays vibrant and fresh.

Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping

In a small bowl, combine the streusel ingredients: flour, brown and granulated sugars, and cinnamon. Add the cold cubed butter, then work it into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your fingers until you get those lovely coarse crumbs. This buttery, crumbly topping will add a wonderful texture contrast to the soft cake below.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Pan

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot by the time your batter is ready. Grease and flour either a 9-inch round cake pan or an 8×8-inch square baking dish—either works perfectly for this recipe.

Step 4: Mix Dry Cake Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl. This dry mix ensures even distribution of the leaveners and spices in the batter, so your cake will rise evenly and have that consistent warm spice throughout.

Step 5: Cream Butter and Sugar

With an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy, usually about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, giving the cake a soft and tender crumb.

Step 6: Add Eggs and Vanilla

One at a time, blend the eggs into the butter and sugar base, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then add the vanilla extract for that lovely sweet note that rounds out the flavors.

Step 7: Combine Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream

Add the dry ingredient mixture in three parts, alternating with the sour cream—starting and ending with the dry ingredients. This method helps keep the batter smooth and prevents overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined to maintain a tender texture.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Spoon half of the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Scatter half of the apple filling over the batter, then spread the remaining batter on top and smooth it out. Finish by spooning the rest of the apple filling on top, then generously sprinkle the streusel topping to cover the apples. This layering creates a perfect medley of bite-sized surprises in every forkful.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Place your cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If you notice the top browning too fast before the inside is cooked, loosely cover the cake with foil to prevent burning.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and prepare for compliments on your Apple Pie Coffee Cake Recipe that tastes like a cozy hug with every slice.

How to Serve Apple Pie Coffee Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce can elevate your Apple Pie Coffee Cake Recipe to new heights. Fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream is always a welcome touch, making each bite even more indulgent and comforting.

Side Dishes

This coffee cake pairs marvelously with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a spiced chai latte. For brunch, serve alongside a fresh fruit salad or crispy bacon for a lovely balance of sweet and savory flavors, creating a well-rounded, inviting spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, try serving the cake in small individual ramekins for single servings topped with extra streusel. You can also layer it in a trifle bowl with whipped cream and apple compote to make an eye-catching dessert centerpiece that showcases all the delicious layers of the Apple Pie Coffee Cake Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, keeping it in the refrigerator will preserve freshness for about five days. Always let the cake cool fully before storing to avoid condensation and sogginess.

Freezing

This cake freezes wonderfully for up to two months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving, allowing the flavors to meld back together.

Reheating

To enjoy the cake warm after refrigeration or freezing, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through. This brings back the fresh-baked goodness and melty streusel topping experience.

FAQs

Can I use other apple varieties in this recipe?

Yes! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are ideal for their balance of tartness and sweetness, feel free to experiment with Fuji, Braeburn, or Gala. Just make sure the apples are firm to avoid excess moisture in the cake.

Is it possible to substitute yogurt for sour cream?

Absolutely. Plain yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream and will provide a similar moisture and tang. Just use full-fat yogurt for the best texture and flavor in your Apple Pie Coffee Cake Recipe.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can try swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. Just check that your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly.

How do I prevent the cake from drying out?

Be careful not to overbake the cake and avoid overmixing the batter. Also, storing leftovers properly in airtight containers will help maintain moisture for days after baking.

Can this cake be made vegan?

With some ingredient swaps, yes! Replace the butter with vegan margarine, use a flax egg or chia egg as an egg substitute, and swap sour cream with a plant-based yogurt. The flavor may vary, but it can still be delicious.

Final Thoughts

There is truly nothing like the comforting, nostalgic feeling that comes from making and sharing this Apple Pie Coffee Cake Recipe. Whether you’re treating yourself to a cozy morning moment or impressing friends with a delightful homemade dessert, this recipe brings warmth and joy to the table every time. Give it a try — I promise you’ll fall in love with the tender crumb, luscious apple filling, and crumbly topping all woven together in one unforgettable cake.

Apple Pie Coffee Cake Recipe

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3.9 from 165 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

A moist and flavorful Apple Pie Coffee Cake featuring tender diced apples spiced with cinnamon and lemon juice, layered between a tender cake batter and a buttery cinnamon streusel topping. This delightful cake bakes to a golden perfection and is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting dessert.

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Ingredients

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Apple Filling

• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Cake Batter

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream (or plain yogurt)

Streusel Topping

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

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Instructions

1. Make the Apple Filling: In a medium bowl, toss the diced apples with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the cake.
2. Prepare the Streusel: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup flour, 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Add the cold cubed 1/4 cup unsalted butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or an 8×8-inch square baking dish to prevent sticking.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Set aside.
5. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add 2 large eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until combined.
7. Add Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with 1 cup sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain tenderness.
8. Assemble the Cake: Spread half of the cake batter evenly in the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the apple filling over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top and smooth it out carefully. Finally, spoon the remaining apple filling on top, then evenly sprinkle the streusel topping over the apples.
9. Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
10. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.

Notes

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet-tart Honeycrisp for the best flavor contrast and texture.
• Make sure the butter for the streusel is cold to achieve the perfect crumbly texture.
• You can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt for a lighter option.
• Covering with foil if browning too fast prevents over-darkening while ensuring the cake cooks through.
• The coffee cake is best enjoyed within 2 days but can be stored wrapped airtight at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For a nutty twist, add chopped walnuts or pecans to the streusel mixture.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American