Apple Coffee Cake With Crumb Topping Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Apple Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping baking in your oven. The sweet scent of cinnamon, tender apples, and buttery crumb topping is enough to make anyone's day a little brighter.

this Recipe

I first discovered this gem of a recipe on a crisp fall afternoon when my kitchen was overflowing with freshly picked apples. It has since become a beloved weekend staple, perfect for pairing with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. Let's dive into why this cake is sure to become your new favorite.

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

Get ready to swoon over every bite of this Apple Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping. It's the perfect balance of sweet, spiced, and crumbly—a true treat for the senses.

First, it's incredibly easy to make. Despite its bakery-quality flavor, this recipe comes together quickly with ingredients you likely already have on hand. No fancy techniques or tools are needed, making it ideal for bakers of all levels.

Next, it's wonderfully versatile. Whether you're serving it for brunch, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this cake shines in any setting. It's especially popular during fall, but it’s a crowd-pleaser all year long.

The layers of texture are simply irresistible. The moist cake base is studded with tender apple pieces, while the crumb topping adds a satisfying crunch. Together, they create the ultimate bite.

And let's not forget the warm, inviting flavors. The cinnamon-spiced apples and buttery crumble bring a cozy, homey vibe to every slice. You'll feel like you're wrapped in a soft, warm blanket with each bite.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Every component works together to create the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

• Apples: Opt for firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These hold their shape during baking and provide a delightful contrast to the sweet crumb topping. Dice them into small, even pieces for consistent bites throughout the cake.
• Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These warm spices bring out the natural sweetness of the apples while adding a comforting, aromatic depth to the cake.
• Butter: Both the cake and crumb topping rely on unsalted butter for a rich, buttery flavor. Be sure it's softened for the batter and cold for the topping to achieve the perfect crumble.
• Brown Sugar: Used in the crumb topping, brown sugar adds a subtle molasses flavor and enhances the overall sweetness of the cake.
• Sour Cream or Yogurt: This is the secret to an ultra-moist cake. Either ingredient works well, so use what you have on hand. It adds a slight tang that balances the sweetness beautifully.

If you have a stand mixer or handheld electric mixer, it will make creaming the butter and sugar easier. A 9x9-inch baking pan or a springform pan works best for this recipe, ensuring even baking.

How To Make This Apple Coffee Cake With Crumb Topping

Making this coffee cake is simpler than you might think. Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure perfect results every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your baking pan. A light dusting of flour after greasing helps prevent sticking.

In a medium bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Set this mixture aside.

Cream your softened butter and granulated sugar together in a large bowl until light and fluffy. This step is key to a tender cake, so don't rush it. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream or yogurt and a splash of vanilla extract for added flavor.

Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding gently to avoid overmixing. Fold in the diced apples, ensuring they're evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Now, it's time for the crumb topping! Combine cold butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour in a bowl. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the dry ingredients until large crumbs form. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the batter.

Bake the cake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly crisp. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Storage Options

This Apple Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead treat.

If you're planning to enjoy it within a day or two, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps the crumb topping crisp and the cake moist.

For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out. Let it come to room temperature or warm it slightly in the microwave before serving.

You can also freeze this cake! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw slices at room temperature or reheat them in the oven for a freshly baked experience.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this recipe means you can easily tailor it to your tastes or dietary needs.

• Swap the apples for pears if you're looking for a slightly different flavor profile. Pears bring a mellow sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spices.
• Add a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the crumb topping for an extra crunch.
• Try using whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend for a healthier twist. The texture will vary slightly, but the flavor remains delicious.
• If you're dairy-free, substitute plant-based yogurt for sour cream and use a dairy-free butter alternative in both the batter and topping.
• For a festive touch, mix dried cranberries or raisins into the batter. Their tartness complements the sweet apples perfectly.

Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own. No matter how you customize it, you're sure to end up with a delightful treat that everyone will love.

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