Apple Spice Coffee Cake Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

• Welcome to the cozy corner of baking! Imagine the smell of warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and fresh apples wafting through your kitchen-a scent so inviting it wraps around you like your favorite blanket on a crisp autumn morning. That’s exactly the vibe this Apple Spice Coffee Cake delivers.
• This cake isn’t just dessert; it’s a full sensory experience-comfort food that feels like a hug, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea.
• Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is approachable yet special enough to impress guests or make a quiet weekend feel indulgent.
• We’re about to embark on a journey through juicy apples, warm spices, tender cake crumbs, and a crumbly topping that adds a perfect textural contrast. Ready? Let’s dive into every delicious detail.

Apple Spice Coffee Cake Recipe

• This isn’t your average cake. It’s a moist, tender, spice-infused masterpiece, layered with freshly chopped apples and topped with a buttery, crunchy streusel that’s just the right balance of sweet and spicy.
• The cake itself is tender and lightly sweetened, with a tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth.
• The spices-cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of cloves-create a warm, inviting aroma and flavor that perfectly complement the sweet tartness of the apples.
• The streusel topping is where the magic happens: crunchy, sugary, and bursting with buttery goodness, it adds a delightful textural contrast.
• This recipe is a classic crowd-pleaser, ideal for holiday breakfasts, cozy family gatherings, or just because you deserve a little treat.

Ingredients Needed

To make this glorious Apple Spice Coffee Cake, you’ll need:

For The Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (for that perfect structure and tenderness)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (helps the cake rise and become fluffy)
• ½ teaspoon baking soda (adds extra lift and lightness)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (the star spice!)
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (adds warmth and complexity)
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves (optional, for a deeper spice profile)
• ½ teaspoon salt (balances sweetness and enhances flavors)
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened (for rich, moist crumb)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (sweetens and tenderizes)
• 2 large eggs (binds ingredients and adds moisture)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (adds depth and aroma)
• 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (keeps cake moist and tender)
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped (adds fresh fruit sweetness and texture)

For The Streusel Topping

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar (adds a caramel-y sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes (creates that crumbly texture)
• A pinch of salt

How To Make Apple Spice Coffee Cake

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
• Cream the butter and sugar: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar on medium speed until light, fluffy, and pale-about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for a tender crumb.
• Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
• Combine wet and dry: Alternately add the dry ingredients and sour cream to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently but thoroughly until just combined.
• Fold in apples: Gently fold in the chopped apples so they’re evenly distributed without overmixing the batter.
• Prepare the streusel topping: In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Assemble the cake: Spread half the batter into the pan, sprinkle half the streusel topping, then layer the remaining batter, finishing with the rest of the streusel.
• Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Cool and enjoy: Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

• Apples: Fresh apples add moisture, natural sweetness, and a bit of tartness. Their pectin helps the cake hold together, while their juices keep every bite tender. Choosing tart varieties like Granny Smith balances sweetness perfectly.
• Sour Cream/Yogurt: These ingredients introduce acidity, which tenderizes gluten in the flour, resulting in a soft, moist crumb. They also react with baking soda to create lift.
• Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves): These warm spices contain essential oils that volatilize with heat, creating that comforting aroma we associate with fall and cozy kitchens.
• Butter: Butter contributes richness and flavor, while also helping create a tender, crumbly texture when creamed with sugar.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Both are leavening agents. Baking powder releases CO2 bubbles during baking, while baking soda reacts with acidic components (like sour cream) for extra rise.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overmix the batter! Mix just until ingredients are combined to avoid developing gluten, which can make your cake dense.
• Use cold butter in the streusel. This creates the crumbly, sandy texture instead of melting into the topping.
• Peel the apples for the best texture, but if you love extra color and texture, you can leave the peel on-just chop finely.
• Let the cake cool before slicing. This allows the crumb to set and makes for neater slices.
• Customize your spices to your liking! Add more cinnamon or experiment with cardamom or ginger for a twist.
• Toast the streusel topping briefly under the broiler for 1-2 minutes if you like it extra crunchy-just watch carefully!

Recipe Variations

• Nutty upgrade: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the streusel or fold them into the batter for crunch.
• Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzle homemade caramel sauce on top before serving for an ultra indulgent touch.
• Vegan: Use plant-based butter, flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg), and coconut yogurt instead of sour cream.
• Fruit swap: Swap apples for pears or add a handful of dried cranberries or raisins for extra fruity surprise.

Final Words

• This Apple Spice Coffee Cake is a true celebration of fall flavors that never goes out of style.
• The perfect balance of moist, tender cake with crunchy, buttery topping makes every bite a delight.
• It’s incredibly versatile, so you can make it your own by playing with spices, fruits, or nuts.
• Baking it fills your home with an irresistible aroma, creating memories around the kitchen that linger long after the last crumb is gone.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients Needed For An Apple Spice Coffee Cake?

The main ingredients typically include all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon and nutmeg, eggs, unsalted butter, sour cream or yogurt, vanilla extract, and fresh apples.

What Type Of Apples Work Best In An Apple Spice Coffee Cake?

Firm and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal because they hold their shape well during baking and provide a nice balance to the sweetness and spices in the cake.

Can I Make The Apple Spice Coffee Cake Gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help maintain the cake’s texture.

How Do I Achieve A Moist Texture In Apple Spice Coffee Cake?

Using sour cream or yogurt in the batter adds moisture and tenderness. Also, ensuring you don’t overbake the cake will help keep it moist.

Is It Necessary To Peel The Apples Before Adding Them To The Coffee Cake?

Peeling is optional. Leaving the peel on can add extra texture and nutrients, but if you prefer a smoother texture, peeling is recommended.

Can I Prepare The Batter The Night Before And Bake It The Next Day?

It’s best to bake the cake fresh for optimal texture and flavor. However, you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it overnight, then give it a gentle stir before baking.

What Spices Are Commonly Used In Apple Spice Coffee Cake Recipes?

The most common spices include ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and sometimes cloves or allspice to enhance the warm, autumnal flavor.

How Long Should I Bake An Apple Spice Coffee Cake And At What Temperature?

Typically, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Can I Add A Crumb Topping Or Glaze To The Apple Spice Coffee Cake?

Yes, many recipes include a cinnamon-sugar crumb topping made with butter, flour, and sugar, or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for added sweetness.

How Should I Store Leftover Apple Spice Coffee Cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.