Irresistible Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping

There is something truly comforting about an Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping. This delightful treat brings together tender, moist cake filled with juicy apple bits, warm spices that feel like a cozy hug, and a crunchy, sweet plant-based crumb that perfectly balances every bite. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up, this cake delivers a rich flavor and texture profile that’s irresistibly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: The juicy apples combined with cinnamon and nutmeg create a mouthwatering experience in every slice.
• Crunchy Topping: The cinnamon streusel adds a delightful crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with easy-to-find pantry staples, this recipe is approachable for all skill levels.
• Versatile: Perfect as a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or even dessert with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Plant-Based Friendly: Uses plant-based (natural) ingredients to suit a variety of dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping has a role, whether it’s adding moisture, flavor, or texture. These essentials come together to create a harmony of taste that’s both familiar and exciting.

• All-Purpose Flour: The structural base that provides softness and rise to the cake.
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These natural leavening agents help the cake become light and fluffy.
• Ground Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Warm spices that infuse the cake with comforting autumnal notes.
• Brown Sugar (natural): Adds a deep sweetness and helps with moisture retention.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake tender and moist without overpowering flavors.
• Plant-Based Yogurt: Provides subtle tang and enhances the cake’s moistness.
• Apples: Fresh, diced apples bring juiciness and natural sweetness, perfectly harmonizing with the spices.
• Vanilla Extract (natural): Enhances the overall flavor with gentle floral notes.
• For the Streusel Topping: Rolled oats, brown sugar (natural), cinnamon, and cold vegetable oil combine for a crispy, flavorful crumb.
• Natural Gelling Agent: Incorporated subtly to perfect the texture of the streusel without heaviness.

Variations for Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping

Feel free to put your creative touch on this apple coffee cake. Its versatile nature allows you to easily adapt the recipe depending on what you have or your taste preferences.

• Nut Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the streusel for crunch and nuttiness.
• Fruit Swap: Substitute apples with pears or peaches for a fresh twist.
• Spice Boost: Incorporate cardamom or ginger for a more adventurous spice profile.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend with a natural gelling agent for safe and tasty results.
• Sweetener Alternatives: Swap brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup (natural) for different flavors.

How to Make Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping

Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Topping

Combine rolled oats, brown sugar (natural), cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and cold vegetable oil in a bowl, mixing until crumbly and coarse. Scatter this topping on a tray and refrigerate to firm up as you prepare the batter.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This ensures even flavor distribution and a light crumb.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat vegetable oil, brown sugar (natural), plant-based yogurt, and vanilla extract (natural) until smooth and creamy, creating a moist and flavorful base.

Step 4: Incorporate Apples

Fold the diced fresh apples gently into the wet mixture, making sure they are evenly dispersed to ensure juicy bites throughout the cake.

Step 5: Bring It Together

Slowly add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding carefully to avoid overmixing while keeping the batter light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Pour half the batter into a greased pan, sprinkle half the chilled streusel topping, then add the remaining batter. Finish with the remaining streusel on top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool slightly for the topping to set and the flavors to meld. Serve warm or at room temperature to fully enjoy the moist texture and crunchy topping contrast.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping

• Use Fresh Apples: Select crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best texture and flavor.
• Keep Streusel Cold: Chilling the streusel before baking helps it maintain its crumbly texture.
• Avoid Overmixing: Stir batter just until ingredients combine to keep the cake light.
• Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting the cake rest gives the spices time to deepen their flavor.

How to Serve Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping

Garnishes

Sprinkle powdered sugar (natural) on top or add a dollop of plant-based whipped cream for extra indulgence that complements the spicy sweetness perfectly.

Side Dishes

This coffee cake pairs wonderfully with a fresh fruit salad, a cup of black coffee, or warm chai tea to round out a comforting and balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve slices layered with plant-based yogurt or fruit compote on dessert plates to impress guests, or plate it alongside smoked turkey bacon for a savory and sweet brunch pairing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the apple coffee cake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days to keep it fresh.

Freezing

Wrap individual slices with plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

Warm slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to restore that just-baked comfort and aroma.

FAQs

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Absolutely! Pears, peaches, or even firm berries work beautifully and add a fun variation to this cake.

Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, by using plant-based yogurt and oil, the recipe fits perfectly into a vegan lifestyle while remaining moist and flavorful.

Can I prepare the streusel topping in advance?

Yes, you can make the streusel topping a day ahead and keep it refrigerated until ready to use, which actually enhances its texture.

What type of pan is best for baking this cake?

A 9-inch square or round baking pan greased well works best for even baking and perfect thickness.

How do I make sure the cake stays moist?

Using plant-based yogurt and vegetable oil ensures the cake stays tender, and not overmixing the batter helps maintain moisture retention.

Final Thoughts

Give this Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping a try and you’ll discover a new favorite in your baking repertoire. Its balance of moist, fruity, and crunchy textures with warm spices is simply irresistible. Whether sharing with friends or enjoying on a cozy morning, this cake brings comfort and delight in every bite.

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