Introduction

Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping is the definition of comfort baking.
This soft, moist cake is filled with tender apple pieces and warm cinnamon spice, then
crowned with a thick, buttery crumb topping that melts slightly into the cake as it bakes.

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this cake pairs beautifully with coffee or tea
and fills your kitchen with an irresistible homemade aroma. Simple ingredients and easy
steps make it a reliable recipe you can return to again and again.

History of Apple Coffee Cake

Coffee cakes have a long history in European and American baking traditions. Despite the
name, they typically contain no coffee but are meant to be enjoyed alongside it. Streusel
toppings originated in German baking, where crumb-topped cakes were especially popular.

Apples and cinnamon were later added in American kitchens, especially during fall harvest
seasons, creating the classic apple cinnamon coffee cake we know today—warm, comforting,
and deeply nostalgic.

Ingredients

For the Streusel Topping

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

For the Cake Batter

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¾ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and spatula
• Electric mixer (optional)
• 8×8-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper

Method & Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Streusel

In a bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add cold butter cubes and work
them in with your fingers or a fork until coarse crumbs form. Refrigerate while preparing
the batter.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line an 8×8-inch pan. Whisk together flour,
baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time,
then mix in vanilla extract and sour cream. Gently fold in the dry ingredients until just
combined.

Step 3: Add the Apples

Fold the diced apples evenly into the batter, ensuring each slice of cake will have juicy
apple pieces throughout.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the chilled streusel topping
generously over the surface, covering it completely.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 40–50 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a
few moist crumbs. Allow the cake to cool before slicing.

Benefits of Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake

• Uses simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect balance of soft cake and crunchy topping
• Apples add natural sweetness and moisture
• Ideal for make-ahead breakfasts or gatherings
• Comforting and nostalgic homemade flavor

Delicious Variations

• Nutty: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the streusel
• Extra Spice: Add nutmeg or cloves
• Caramel Apple: Drizzle caramel sauce on top
• Glazed: Finish with a simple vanilla glaze

Storage Tips

• Room temperature: up to 2 days
• Refrigerator: up to 5 days
• Freeze slices: up to 2 months

For Cake Lovers

If you love cozy flavors, cinnamon spice, and fruit-filled cakes, this apple cinnamon
coffee cake will quickly become a favorite. It’s a go-to recipe for relaxed mornings
and comforting moments.

Conclusion

Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping is a timeless homemade treat that brings
warmth and comfort to any table. With its moist crumb, tender apples, and buttery topping,
it’s a recipe that never goes out of style.

Easy to prepare and deeply satisfying, this cake is perfect for sharing—or enjoying
quietly with your favorite cup of coffee.