A warm slice of apple coffee cake brings a cozy feeling, with the aroma of fresh apples and cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. This delightful recipe, taking about 70 minutes from start to finish, is a surefire way to impress friends and family. The secret is in the combination of tart Granny Smith apples and sweet brown sugar crumbs, creating a cake that’s both moist and flavorful.
This recipe is perfect for gatherings or any cozy morning when you’re in the mood for something sweet. It can also be made ahead and stored for a quick breakfast or dessert option throughout the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The crumb topping provides a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft cake.
- Fluffy cake batter infused with sweet, diced apples means every bite is packed with flavor.
- Perfectly spiced with cinnamon to elevate your breakfast or snack time.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious cake:
For the Crumb Topping
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour or whole wheat pastry flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon, ground
- 6 tablespoons cold butter
For the Cake Batter
- 3/4 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 whole eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour or whole wheat pastry flour
- 1 1/2 cups sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 whole large Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and diced (about 3 cups)
Use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
- Brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Greek yogurt can replace sour cream.
- Any apple variety works, but Granny Smith enhances tartness.
How to Make It
Get ready to bake this delicious coffee cake!
1. Preheat
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Prepare Pan
Butter a 9"x13" pan and line it with parchment paper, then butter the parchment paper.
3. Make Crumb Mixture
Mix together brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a bowl. Cut in 6 tablespoons of cubed cold butter using a mixer or pastry cutter until crumbly.
4. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, add the cubed 3/4 cup cold butter and beat until smooth and creamy. Gradually add granulated sugar while beating at medium speed until light and fluffy.
5. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add eggs one at a time, beating well between each addition, and scrape the bowl’s sides. Then, add vanilla and mix well until the batter is light and fluffy.
6. Combine Dry Ingredients
Add baking soda, baking powder, and salt, beating on medium-high speed until well combined. Scrape sides of the bowl.
7. Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients
Add flour 1 cup at a time, alternating with 1/2 cup sour cream, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.
8. Fold in Apples
Mix in the diced apples until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
9. Layer the Cake
Spread half of the batter into the bottom of the prepared pan, reaching the edges. Then, sprinkle 1/3 of the crumb mixture over the batter.
10. Swirl and Top
Cover with the remaining cake batter, using a knife to swirl in the cinnamon crumb topping. Press the remaining crumb topping between your fingers to create crumbs and distribute evenly over the top.
11. Bake
Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
12. Cool
Allow the cake to cool completely before serving.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Yes, wrap tightly for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave for 15-20 seconds.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure butter is cold for a crumbly topping.
- Use a toothpick to check for doneness strategically.
- Let the cake fully cool before slicing for clean cuts.
- Consider adding walnuts for extra crunch in the batter.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee for breakfast.
- Serve as a dessert at family gatherings.
- Pair with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a treat.
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