There's something magical about the combination of warm apples, cinnamon, and a buttery crumb topping. This Apple Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping is a comforting treat that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee or as a sweet snack any time of the day.

I remember the first time I made this cake, my kitchen was filled with the most inviting aroma of apples and cinnamon. By the time it came out of the oven, my family was already waiting at the table with plates in hand! It’s now a staple in our home, especially during apple season.

Let’s dive into what makes this coffee cake so irresistible!

Why You'll Love This Apple Coffee Cake

Prepare to fall in love with this easy, comforting dessert. It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures, with soft apples, moist cake, and a crunchy crumb topping.

First and foremost, this cake is quick and simple to prepare. You don’t need any fancy techniques or equipment – just a mixing bowl, a baking dish, and a love for cozy baked goods.

The warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg will transport you to a crisp autumn day, even if it’s the middle of summer. Each bite feels like a warm hug, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or cozy weekends at home.

And let’s not forget the crumb topping. It’s buttery, crunchy, and lightly sweetened – the ultimate finishing touch that takes this cake to the next level.

Best of all, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can swap out the apples for pears or even add nuts for extra crunch. It’s a crowd-pleaser that you can make your own.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Apple Coffee Cake comes from its simple ingredients, carefully chosen to deliver maximum flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Apples

Choose firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results. Their crisp texture holds up well during baking, and their tartness balances the sweetness of the cake.

All-Purpose Flour

This forms the base of both the cake and the crumb topping. Make sure to measure it correctly – spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy.

Cinnamon and Nutmeg

These warm spices are key to creating that cozy, autumnal flavor. Feel free to adjust the amounts to suit your personal taste.

Butter

Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the cake. It should be softened for the cake batter and cold for the crumb topping to create that perfect texture.

Brown Sugar

Adds depth of flavor and a hint of caramel sweetness to the crumb topping. Combined with granulated sugar, it provides just the right amount of sweetness for the entire cake.

Baking Powder and Baking Soda

These leavening agents work together to create a fluffy, tender cake.

Special Equipment

While not strictly necessary, a springform pan makes it easy to remove the cake without disturbing the crumb topping. A standard 9x13-inch baking dish also works beautifully.

How To Make This Apple Coffee Cake

Creating this Apple Coffee Cake is a breeze. Here’s how to do it step by step:

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your baking dish. Peel, core, and dice the apples into small, evenly-sized pieces. This ensures they cook through evenly while baking.

Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

In a medium bowl, combine cold butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and flour. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend the mixture until it forms coarse crumbs. Set this aside – it’s the star of the cake!

Step 3: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Be careful not to overmix – a few lumps are fine!

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the diced apples over the batter, pressing them in slightly. Finally, top with the crumb mixture, ensuring even coverage.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Storage Options

This cake is just as delightful the next day, making it a great make-ahead option. Here’s how to store it:

Room Temperature: Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: For longer storage, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: Slice the cake into individual portions, wrap them in plastic wrap, and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm it in a 300°F oven for a few minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to suit your tastes and dietary needs:

Swap the Apples: Try pears, peaches, or even mixed berries for a fun twist.
Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the crumb topping for added crunch.
Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use almond milk with a splash of vinegar in place of buttermilk.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure your leavening agents and other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for an extra kick of warmth.

Don’t be afraid to get creative – this recipe is forgiving and always delicious!

Enjoy the process of making this cozy Apple Coffee Cake and savor every crumbly, cinnamony bite. Whether you’re sharing it with friends, family, or just treating yourself, this cake is guaranteed to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!