Apple Pie Coffee Cake is the ultimate fusion of two beloved classics—apple pie and crumb-topped coffee cake. This delicious treat features a moist, cinnamon-spiced cake layered with tender, caramelized apples and topped with a buttery streusel crumble.
It captures the warm, cozy flavors of a homemade apple pie in a soft, sliceable form that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Whether served warm with a cup of coffee or enjoyed chilled the next day, this cake brings comfort and nostalgia in every bite. Ideal for fall gatherings, holiday mornings, or anytime you crave a sweet, spiced indulgence.
APPLE PIE COFFEE CAKE
Description
Apple Pie Coffee Cake combines the best of two classics: the warm, cinnamon-spiced flavor of apple pie and the soft, crumbly texture of coffee cake.
This delicious treat features tender layers of moist cake, sweet apple filling, and a buttery streusel topping.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, it’s a cozy and comforting bake that pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Whether served warm or at room temperature, it’s sure to please a crowd and satisfy your sweet tooth. Ideal for fall gatherings or anytime you crave something homey and delicious.
Ingredients
For the apple filling:
For the streusel topping:
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square baking pan.
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In a bowl, toss diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Set aside.
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In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light. Add eggs and vanilla; beat well.
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Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Add to wet mixture alternately with sour cream and milk.
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Spread half the batter in the pan. Add the apple mixture, then the remaining batter.
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For streusel, mix brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Cut in butter until crumbly. Sprinkle on top.
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Bake 40–45 minutes or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Cool before slicing.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 10
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 360kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 18g28%
- Saturated Fat 9g45%
- Cholesterol 65mg22%
- Sodium 220mg10%
- Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 28g
- Protein 5g10%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Apple Pie Coffee Cake: Tips, Tricks & Serving Ideas
Apple Pie Coffee Cake is a cozy, spiced dessert that marries the comfort of apple pie with the tender crumb of a coffee cake. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert and pairs beautifully with a warm mug of coffee or tea. Below are tips and tricks to help you bake the perfect version every time, plus serving ideas to make it extra special.
Baking Tips & Tricks
- Choose the Right Apples
For the best texture and flavor, go with firm, tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. They hold their shape during baking and balance the cake’s sweetness beautifully. - Don’t Skip the Streusel
A buttery cinnamon streusel topping is what gives coffee cake its signature texture. Make sure your streusel has a good balance of flour, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon. For extra crunch, throw in some chopped pecans or walnuts. - Add a Layer of Flavor
Enhance your apple filling with warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. A splash of vanilla or a drizzle of maple syrup can also take your apple pie filling to the next level. - Sour Cream or Yogurt is Key
Use full-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt in the cake batter. It keeps the crumb moist and tender while adding a subtle tang that pairs wonderfully with the sweet apple filling. - Don’t Overmix the Batter
When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until the flour disappears. Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of light and fluffy. - Bake Evenly
If your oven has hot spots, rotate the pan halfway through baking. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. - Let It Cool
It’s tempting to dig in right away, but let your coffee cake cool for at least 15–20 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes cleaner slices.
Serving Tips
- Morning Glory
Serve slices warm for breakfast or brunch alongside scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, or yogurt. It’s a guaranteed hit for family gatherings or holiday mornings. - Dessert Style
Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert. A drizzle of caramel sauce makes it even more decadent. - Glazed Goodness
Drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla over the top once it’s cooled. It adds sweetness and a lovely finish. - Coffee Pairing
As the name suggests, this cake shines next to a strong cup of coffee—especially a dark roast or cinnamon-spiced blend. Tea lovers will enjoy it with chai or English breakfast. - Make It Ahead
This coffee cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Store it tightly covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds.
Whether you’re baking for a weekend treat, a potluck, or the holidays, Apple Pie Coffee Cake is sure to impress. It's simple, flavorful, and always comforting. Want the full recipe too?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Apple Pie Coffee Cake, and how is it different from traditional coffee cake?
Apple Pie Coffee Cake is a delicious mashup of two beloved classics: apple pie and coffee cake. It combines the moist, tender crumb of coffee cake with the warm spiced apple filling you’d find in a homemade pie. Typically, this cake features a cinnamon-sugar crumble topping and layers of soft apples throughout.
Unlike traditional coffee cake, which is often plain or lightly flavored, this version packs in the cozy flavors of apple pie for a comforting, bakery-style treat.
Can I use fresh apples, or should I use canned apple pie filling?
You can use either! Fresh apples are ideal if you want a more natural flavor and slightly firmer texture. Good choices include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji—these hold up well during baking.
If you're in a pinch or prefer convenience, canned apple pie filling works too. Just keep in mind it may be sweeter and softer, so adjust the sugar in your recipe accordingly if you prefer a less sweet cake.
How should I store Apple Pie Coffee Cake, and can I freeze it?
After baking, allow the cake to cool completely. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate it for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices or the whole cake (wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil) for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm slightly in the microwave or oven for that fresh-baked taste.
Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time for brunch or holidays?
Absolutely! Apple Pie Coffee Cake is a fantastic make-ahead option for brunches, potlucks, or holiday breakfasts. You can bake it the night before and store it covered at room temperature. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
For a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience, reheat it in a low oven (about 300°F or 150°C) for 10–15 minutes before serving. Add a drizzle of glaze or a scoop of whipped cream for a festive touch!
