Indulge in the cozy goodness of Apple Streusel Coffee Cake, a true bakery-style treat! This cake combines tender apples and a crunchy topping, making it perfect for any occasion. I’ll walk you through simple steps to create a cake that’s moist and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe will delight your taste buds and impress your friends! Ready to bake? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Apple Streusel Coffee Cake
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tbsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 2 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Streusel Topping Ingredients
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/3 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
The ingredients here are the stars of your Apple Streusel Coffee Cake. Each plays a key role in flavor and texture.
The all-purpose flour gives the cake its structure. Granulated sugar adds sweetness. Unsalted butter makes it rich and moist. The sour cream provides a nice tang and keeps the cake soft. Eggs help bind everything together. Vanilla extract adds warmth and depth.
Don’t forget the baking powder and baking soda. They help the cake rise. Salt enhances flavors and balances sweetness. Granny Smith apples bring a tart crunch, while lemon juice brightens the apple flavor. Ground cinnamon ties it all together with a warm spice note.
For the streusel topping, you need flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. They create a sweet and crunchy layer on top. Cold butter is essential for that crumbly texture. If you like, add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to create a bakery-style delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Apples
To start, you need to prepare the apples. Take two Granny Smith apples. Peel and dice them into small pieces. In a medium bowl, toss the diced apples with one tablespoon of lemon juice and one teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This step brightens the flavor and keeps the apples from browning. Let the apples marinate for about ten minutes. This time allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
Making the Streusel Topping
Next, let’s make the streusel topping. In a separate medium bowl, mix together half a cup of all-purpose flour, half a cup of packed brown sugar, and one teaspoon of ground cinnamon. If you want some crunch, add a quarter cup of chopped walnuts or pecans. Now, toss in one-third cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter. Using a fork or your fingertips, blend until the mixture looks crumbly, like coarse crumbs. Set this topping aside for later.
Baking the Cake
Now, we will bake the cake. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a nine-inch round cake pan. You can also use parchment paper to make it easier to remove the cake. In a large bowl, cream together half a cup of softened unsalted butter and one cup of granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about three to five minutes. The mixture should become light and fluffy.
Next, add in the eggs one at a time. Make sure to mix well after each egg. Now, add one cup of sour cream and one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth. In another bowl, whisk together two cups of all-purpose flour, one tablespoon of baking powder, half a teaspoon of baking soda, and a quarter teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
Now, fold in the marinated apples. This adds a sweet, fruity flavor to your cake. Pour half of the batter into the bottom of your prepared cake pan. Evenly sprinkle half of the streusel topping over this layer. Then, pour the rest of the batter on top, followed by the remaining streusel topping.
Place the cake in the preheated oven. Bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready. Let the coffee cake cool in the pan for about ten minutes. After that, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring a Moist Coffee Cake
To keep your coffee cake moist, start with room temperature ingredients. This helps them mix well and evenly. Cold eggs and butter can lead to a dense cake. Avoid overmixing the batter. When you mix too much, the cake can become tough. Stir gently until just combined for the best texture.
Streusel Topping Perfection
For the perfect crumb in your streusel, aim for a mix that feels crumbly. You want to see small clumps that will bake into a lovely topping. If you like some crunch, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans. These nuts will give an extra layer of flavor. Just remember to mix them in with the dry ingredients.
Presentation Enhancements
To make your coffee cake look even more inviting, dust the top with powdered sugar. This adds a sweet touch and a nice contrast to the brown streusel. When serving, pair slices with a warm cup of coffee or tea. This will create a cozy and delightful experience for everyone.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can switch up the flavor of your coffee cake by using different apples. Honeycrisp apples are great for a sweet twist. They add a nice crunch and flavor. You can also try spices like nutmeg or allspice. Just a pinch can add warmth and depth to your cake.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, use a gluten-free flour blend. Many blends work well in baking. For a dairy-free cake, substitute sour cream with coconut yogurt. This will keep your cake moist and tasty without dairy.
Serving Suggestions
Serving with whipped cream makes this cake even better. A dollop on top adds creaminess and sweetness. You can also use the cake as a base for ice cream sundaes. Just slice the cake, add ice cream, and drizzle with chocolate sauce. Enjoy the layers of flavor and texture!
Storage Info
Storing the Coffee Cake
To keep your coffee cake fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps to keep it moist and tasty. You can also wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Make sure it is in a cool place away from direct sunlight. If you want to keep it longer, the fridge works well too.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some slices, freezing is a great option. First, let the coffee cake cool completely. Then, slice it into pieces. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap. After that, place the wrapped slices in a freezer bag or container. This keeps them safe from freezer burn. When you want to enjoy a slice, remove it from the freezer. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight for the best taste.
Reheating Options
To warm up your coffee cake, the oven works best. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place a slice on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 10 minutes. If you want it quicker, a microwave will do. Heat each slice for about 15-20 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat, or it may become dry. Enjoy your cake warm for a delightful treat!
FAQs
Can I make Apple Streusel Coffee Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this cake ahead. Bake it a day before serving. Let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This keeps it fresh overnight. You can also store it in an airtight container. For best taste, enjoy it within two days.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you need a substitute for sour cream, try yogurt. Plain Greek yogurt works well. You can also use buttermilk. Both options add moisture and tang. Another option is cream cheese mixed with a bit of water.
How long does the coffee cake last?
The coffee cake lasts about three days at room temperature. Store it in an airtight container. If you refrigerate it, it can last up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Wrap individual slices tightly to keep them fresh.
Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use pears or berries instead of apples. Both add a unique flavor. Just make sure to adjust the sugar if the fruit is sweeter. Peaches or plums can also work well in this cake.
This blog post walks you through making a delicious Apple Streusel Coffee Cake. We covered all the key ingredients, detailed steps for preparation, and offered tips to ensure your cake turns out moist and flavorful. Also, we explored variations and storage tips to make your baking experience enjoyable.
With these strategies, you can create a perfect coffee cake every time. Enjoy sharing this delightful treat with friends and family!
