Irresistible Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting treat that fills your kitchen with the aroma of baked apples and cinnamon, this Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel is absolutely the answer. Delight in a moist Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel, bursting with warm spices and crisp apple flavor perfect for any occasion. This cake pairs tender, juicy apples with a crumbly cinnamon topping that makes every bite irresistible, whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Moist Texture: The combination of apples and a tender cake base keeps every slice delightfully soft and moist.
• Warm Cinnamon Flavor: A cinnamon streusel topping adds just the right amount of spice and crunch for texture contrast.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples, this recipe is easy to whip up anytime cravings strike.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual morning or a special gathering, this cake fits beautifully on any table.
• Great for Sharing: Its inviting aroma and flavor make it an instant crowd-pleaser among family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient for this Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel plays an essential role in building the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Fresh apples bring juiciness, while the streusel adds a sweet and crunchy topping that elevates the entire experience.

• Apples: Crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith add a fresh brightness and moisture to the cake.
• All-purpose flour: Provides structure and tenderness to the cake crumb without overwhelming it.
• Baking powder: Helps the cake rise for a light and fluffy texture.
• Ground cinnamon: Infuses the batter and streusel with that warm, comforting spice everyone loves.
• Butter: Adds richness and a velvety mouthfeel to both the cake and the crumb topping.
• Sugar: Balances tartness from the apples and caramelizes beautifully in the streusel topping.
• Eggs: Provide binding and structure while contributing to a moist crumb.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors and adds a subtle sweet aroma.
• Brown sugar: Gives the streusel topping its deep, molasses-like sweetness and color.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the intensity of other flavors.

Variations for Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel

One of the best parts of this Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel is how easy it is to customize according to what you have on hand or your taste preferences. Feel free to make it your own with these delicious ideas.

• Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the streusel for a crunchy, nutty layer.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with your favorite gluten-free blend without losing flavor.
• Spice It Up: Incorporate ground nutmeg or ground ginger along with cinnamon for a richer spice profile.
• Fruit Swap: Replace apples with pears or a mix of apples and berries for a fruity twist.
• Vegan Version: Use flax eggs or applesauce instead of eggs, and vegan butter to keep it cruelty-free.

How to Make Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by peeling, coring, and dicing your apples into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution and consistent moisture throughout the cake.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt to combine the base of your cake batter evenly.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a mixer, beat the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy—this step guarantees a tender crumb with balanced sweetness.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. These ingredients help bind the cake and add a lovely depth of flavor.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Apples

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet batter, mixing just until combined, then fold in the diced apples carefully to avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Create the Cinnamon Streusel

In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, and cold butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to create crumbly pieces perfect for sprinkling on top.

Step 7: Assemble and Bake

Pour the batter into a greased baking pan, evenly sprinkle the cinnamon streusel over the top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 40-45 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel

• Use Fresh, Firm Apples: Firmer apples hold their shape better during baking, preventing mushiness.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir dry ingredients until just combined to keep your cake tender, not tough.
• Cold Butter for Streusel: Keep the butter cold when making streusel to ensure a crumbly topping.
• Check Baking Time: Oven temperatures vary, so start checking your cake at 35 minutes to avoid overbaking.
• Let It Cool: Allow your cake to cool completely before slicing to let flavors settle and reduce crumbling.

How to Serve Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel

Garnishes

For an extra touch, dust your cake with powdered sugar or drizzle a simple glaze made of vanilla and powdered sugar right before serving to enhance sweetness and presentation.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, hot tea, or even a dollop of vanilla yogurt for breakfast or brunch settings.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve slices warm topped with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream or alongside whipped cream and fresh apple slices to impress guests and guests alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It can last for up to three months and thaws well overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Gently warm slices in a microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through to revive moistness and aroma.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith work best for balance, sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp can be used for a milder flavor.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, substituting vegan butter and a non-dairy milk in place of regular butter and milk works well to make this recipe dairy-free.

How should I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days or refrigerate if you want it to last longer.

Can I use pre-made pie filling instead of fresh apples?

While fresh apples provide the best texture, pre-made pie filling can be used in a pinch but may add extra moisture requiring slight bake time adjustments.

What is the best way to get a crumbly streusel topping?

Use cold butter and work it quickly into the dry ingredients with your fingers or a pastry cutter, stopping as soon as crumbly pieces form.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel is a warm hug on a plate, blending sweet apples and cozy cinnamon streusel into one unforgettable treat. Whether you’re making it for everyday enjoyment or a special occasion, it’s sure to become a beloved staple. Go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of this comfort in cake form today!

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