Apple Coffee Cake With Crumb Topping Recipe

Looking for a cozy, delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion? Apple coffee cake with crumb topping is a crowd-pleaser! With tender spiced apples, a moist cake base, and a buttery, crumbly topping, this treat is guaranteed to brighten your day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced)

Ingredients for the Crumb Topping

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)

Kitchen Tools Required

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• 9-inch round or square baking pan
• Spatula
• Pastry cutter or fork

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Apple Mixture

1. Peel, core, and dice the apples into small cubes.
2. Toss the diced apples with a pinch of cinnamon and set aside.

Mixing the Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients.
3. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Fold in the sour cream or yogurt and the prepared apples.

Creating the Crumb Topping

1. Combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl.
2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Assembling the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
2. Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the batter.

Baking and Cooling

1. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Tips for Perfect Results

How to Ensure Moist Cake

• Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until the ingredients are combined.

Secrets to a Crunchy Crumb Topping

• Use cold butter for the topping to maintain its texture.

Serving Suggestions

Ideal Pairings for Apple Coffee Cake

• Serve with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or spiced cider for the ultimate comfort experience.

Garnish Ideas for a Festive Look

• Add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra flair.

Storage Tips

Keeping It Fresh at Room Temperature

• Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing for Later Enjoyment

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Customization Ideas

Substituting Fruits

• Swap apples for pears, peaches, or berries for a seasonal twist.

Adding Spices or Nuts

• Incorporate cloves or ginger for a spicier flavor, or add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the Batter

• Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so keep it light and gentle.

Uneven Crumb Topping Distribution

• Ensure the topping covers the batter evenly for a consistent crunch in every bite.

Healthier Alternatives

Reducing Sugar Content

• Use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup to cut down on refined sugar.

Making It Dairy-Free

• Replace butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based yogurt alternative.

Fun Facts About Coffee Cake

The Origin of Coffee Cake

• Coffee cake traces its roots back to Europe, where it was paired with coffee as a mid-morning treat.

Why It Pairs So Well with Coffee

• The balance of sweetness and spice complements the bitterness of coffee perfectly.

Conclusion

Apple coffee cake with crumb topping is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and even easier to love. Whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet morning, this cake is the perfect companion. Try it today, and let its warm flavors fill your home with joy!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness, but any firm variety will work.

How long does it stay fresh?

It stays fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days and can be frozen for 3 months.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour as a substitute.

Should the crumb topping be chilled before baking?

No, it’s best to sprinkle the topping right before baking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking pan.