There's nothing like the warm, spiced aroma of Apple Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping filling your kitchen. This moist and tender cake, layered with juicy apples and crowned with a buttery crumb topping, is the perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee or an afternoon tea break.

The first time I made this cake, it was a chilly fall afternoon, and the combination of cinnamon and apple made the house smell like a cozy bakery. It’s become my go-to recipe for family gatherings, especially during the holiday season. Let’s dive into what makes this cake irresistible.

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

Get ready to add a new favorite to your baking repertoire. This Apple Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping checks all the boxes for a delightful dessert or snack.

First and foremost, the flavor is incredible. The combination of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and a buttery crumb topping creates the ultimate comfort dessert.

It’s also super simple to make. With straightforward ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners.

The texture is out of this world. The tender, moist cake paired with the crisp crumb topping makes every bite a delightful experience.

Best of all, this cake is versatile. Serve it as a breakfast treat, a dessert, or even a mid-day snack. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ready to bring the flavors of fall to your table? Let’s talk about the ingredients that make this cake shine.

Ingredients Notes

This Apple Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that combine to create a masterpiece. Here's what you need and why each ingredient matters.

Apples: The star of the show! Use a tart variety like Granny Smith or a sweeter option like Honeycrisp, depending on your taste. Peel and dice them for an even distribution throughout the cake.
Cinnamon: This spice brings warmth and depth, perfectly complementing the apples.
Flour: All-purpose flour works best here, providing the structure for both the cake and crumb topping.
Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the salt levels. It adds richness to both the batter and the topping.
Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle molasses flavor to the crumb topping, enhancing the overall sweetness.
Sour Cream: This keeps the cake extra moist and tender. If you don't have sour cream, Greek yogurt works as a great substitute.
Eggs: Essential for binding and adding structure to the cake. Use room-temperature eggs for the best results.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These leavening agents ensure your cake rises beautifully.

You’ll also need basic kitchen tools like a mixing bowl, whisk, and a 9x9-inch baking dish to bring it all together.

How To Make This Apple Coffee Cake With Crumb Topping

Making this Apple Coffee Cake is easier than you might think. Follow these steps to create a bakery-quality cake right at home.

Prepare the Apples: Start by peeling, coring, and dicing your apples. Set them aside while you prepare the batter.
Make the Crumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Add in melted butter and mix until crumbly. Set aside.
Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and sour cream. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Assemble the Cake: Spread half the batter into a greased baking dish. Evenly layer the diced apples over the batter. Top with the remaining batter, then sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the top.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the cake cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld together perfectly.

Storage Options

This Apple Coffee Cake stores beautifully, making it a great option for make-ahead breakfasts or desserts.

Room Temperature: Keep the cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Extend its freshness by storing it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Allow the cake to come to room temperature or reheat gently before serving.
Freezer: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for the best results.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative!

Add Nuts: Mix chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumb topping for a crunchy twist.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the batter for extra warmth.
Glaze: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled cake for added sweetness and a polished finish.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour to accommodate dietary needs.
Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt alternative.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own!

Indulge in the perfect bite of spiced, apple-filled goodness with this Apple Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping. Whether you're serving it to guests or savoring a slice solo, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite. Try it today and let the flavors speak for themselves!