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The Best Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping Recipe

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3.8 from 30 reviews

This delicious Apple Coffee Cake features a moist and tender crumb filled with finely diced apples, and is topped with a crunchy cinnamon streusel. Finished with a smooth and tangy cream cheese cinnamon glaze, this cake is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon treat.

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 9 servings

Ingredients

Cake Batter

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 1/2 cups peeled and finely diced apples (about 2 medium apples)

Cinnamon Streusel Topping

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cream Cheese Cinnamon Glaze (Optional)

  • 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk (or more to reach desired consistency)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring a tender cake texture.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing.
  6. Fold in Apples: Gently fold the finely diced apples into the batter, taking care to distribute them evenly throughout.
  7. Prepare Streusel Topping: In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in melted butter until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
  8. Assemble Cake: Spread the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, then sprinkle the cinnamon streusel topping evenly over the batter.
  9. Bake: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
  10. Make Glaze: While the cake bakes, whisk together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth. Gradually add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the glaze reaches a thin, drizzling consistency.
  11. Cool Cake: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to set and become easier to glaze.
  12. Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the cream cheese cinnamon glaze over the slightly warm cake for a creamy, flavorful finish. Slice and serve.

Notes

  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.
  • Ensure butter and cream cheese are softened at room temperature for easier mixing.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.
  • The cream cheese glaze is optional but adds extra richness and flavor.
  • Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American