Apple Coffee Cake With Crumb Topping Recipe

There's nothing better than the comforting aroma of freshly baked Apple Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping wafting through your kitchen. This delightful treat combines tender spiced apples, a moist cake base, and a buttery, cinnamon-infused crumb topping that's absolutely irresistible.

The first time I baked this coffee cake, it was for a family brunch, and it quickly became a centerpiece dish. Whether you're serving it alongside a cup of coffee or as an afternoon snack, this recipe will win you over with its simple preparation and incredible flavor.

Why You'll Love This Apple Coffee Cake

Prepare to fall head over heels for your new favorite coffee cake recipe. This Apple Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping checks all the boxes for a perfect dessert or breakfast option.

First, the combination of textures is unbeatable. You get a soft and tender cake, juicy spiced apples, and a crumbly, buttery topping that melts in your mouth.

It's also incredibly simple to make, with no fancy equipment required. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up at a moment's notice.

This cake is perfectly versatile for any occasion. Serve it warm for a cozy morning or dress it up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Lastly, it stores and reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it throughout the week. Plus, your house will smell amazing while it bakes – a bonus in itself!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Apple Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping lies in its carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building the cake's irresistible flavor and texture.

Apples

Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Their natural tang balances the sweetness of the cake and holds up well during baking. Peel and dice them into small chunks for even distribution.

Butter

You'll need unsalted butter for both the cake and crumb topping. Make sure it's cold for the topping to achieve that classic crumbly texture.

Spices

A combination of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg adds warmth and enhances the apple flavor. If you're a spice lover, consider adding a touch of ground cloves.

Brown Sugar

The crumb topping uses light brown sugar, which provides a subtle molasses flavor and contributes to the golden-brown crust.

Sour Cream

This is the secret ingredient for an ultra-moist cake! You can substitute it with Greek yogurt if needed, but the tanginess of sour cream truly elevates the flavor.

How To Make This Apple Coffee Cake

Creating this Apple Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping is easier than you might think. Let me walk you through it step by step.

1. Prepare the Crumb Topping: In a medium bowl, combine cold butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Use a fork or your fingers to mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. Set it aside while you make the cake.
2. Make the Cake Batter: Begin by creaming together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step ensures a tender, airy cake. Gradually add the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and sour cream.
3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
4. Add the Apples: Gently fold in the diced apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Assemble and Bake: Pour the batter into a greased 9x9-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the crumb topping over the batter. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature – both are divine!

Storage Options

One of the best things about this Apple Coffee Cake is how well it stores. Whether you're making it ahead or saving leftovers, here are the best methods:

• Room Temperature: Keep the cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days. It’s perfect for quick breakfast slices.
• Refrigerator: Extend its freshness by refrigerating in a sealed container for up to a week. Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.
• Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge or heat directly in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

• Gluten-Free Version: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Nutty Crumb Topping: Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for extra crunch.
• Spiced Apple Variation: Mix the diced apples with a tablespoon of apple pie spice before folding them into the batter.
• Healthier Option: Substitute half the sugar in the batter with honey or maple syrup and use whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
• Fruit Swaps: Replace the apples with pears or peaches for a seasonal twist.

With its rich flavor and cozy texture, this Apple Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself making it again and again. Your taste buds will thank you!

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