Welcome to your new favorite treat: Apple Streusel Coffee Cake Bakery Style Delight! If you love warm, sweet, and spiced treats, this cake is for you. With juicy Granny Smith apples, crunchy streusel, and a moist cake base, every bite is a perfect blend of flavors. You’ll impress your friends and family with this easy recipe. Ready to take your baking skills to the next level? Let’s get started!

Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 large eggs
The main ingredients in this cake create a rich and moist base. The all-purpose flour gives structure, while granulated sugar adds sweetness. Unsalted butter brings creaminess, and sour cream keeps the cake tender. Eggs bind everything together for a perfect texture.
Apples and Flavorings
– 2 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Granny Smith apples work best for this recipe. Their tartness balances the sweet cake. Lemon juice helps keep the apples fresh and bright. Ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice, making each bite a treat.
Streusel Topping Ingredients
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/3 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
The streusel topping gives a crunchy contrast to the soft cake. Brown sugar adds a deep flavor. Cold butter creates that crumbly texture we love. Adding nuts is optional, but they give extra crunch and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Apples
First, peel and dice two medium Granny Smith apples. In a bowl, toss them with one tablespoon of lemon juice and one teaspoon of cinnamon. This adds flavor and keeps the apples fresh. Set the apples aside to marinate while you prepare the other parts of the cake.
Making the Streusel Topping
In a medium bowl, combine half a cup of all-purpose flour, half a cup of brown sugar, and one teaspoon of ground cinnamon. If you like, add a quarter cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. Then, take one-third cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter. Use your fingers or a fork to mix until the mixture looks crumbly. Set this aside for later.
Preparing the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, cream together half a cup of softened unsalted butter and one cup of granulated sugar. Mix until it looks light and fluffy. Next, beat in two large eggs, one cup of sour cream, and one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Keep mixing until everything is smooth.
Combining Cake Mixtures
In a separate 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 mixture to the wet batter. Stir until just combined. Then, gently fold in the marinated apples from earlier.
Baking the Cake
Pour half of the cake batter into a greased and floured 9-inch round cake pan. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter. Then, add the remaining batter on top, followed by the rest of the streusel. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 35 to 40 minutes. Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean when the cake is done.
Cooling the Cake
Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for around 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is key to keeping the cake moist and fluffy. Enjoy the delicious aroma as it cools!
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
– Choosing the right apples: I love using Granny Smith apples. They are tart and firm. This helps balance the sweetness of the cake. You could use Honeycrisp or Fuji apples too. Just make sure they are crisp and fresh.
– Measuring ingredients accurately: Always use the right tools. A kitchen scale or dry measuring cups works best. Spoon flour into your cup, then level it off. This gives you the right amount, which is key for a good rise.
Presentation Tips
– Serving suggestions: Serve your cake on a bright plate. I like to cut it into nice slices. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea. This makes for a cozy treat.
– Adding garnishes: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds charm. You can also sprinkle some extra cinnamon on top. If you want to be fancy, add some fresh apple slices or nuts for a pop of color.
Modifying the Recipe
– Gluten-free substitutes: You can use a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s a cup-for-cup substitute. This way, your cake will still be soft and tasty.
– Reducing sugar content: If you want less sugar, try using applesauce. Replace half of the sugar with applesauce. This keeps the cake moist and sweet. You can also cut down the sugar in the streusel topping for a healthier twist.
Variations
Flavor Enhancements
To make your apple streusel coffee cake even better, try adding spices! Nutmeg adds a warm, cozy flavor. Just use a pinch for a nice touch. You can also mix in other fruits. Chopped pears or berries can add fresh tastes and colors. Get creative with what you have!
Dietary Adjustments
If you want vegan options, swap the eggs for flaxseed meal. This works well to bind the cake. Use a plant-based yogurt instead of sour cream. For nut-free alternatives, leave out the walnuts or pecans in the streusel. You can replace them with sunflower seeds or just skip them altogether.
Seasonal Twists
During autumn, add spices like cloves or allspice to the batter. These spices bring the essence of fall to your cake. For holiday-themed variations, try adding a splash of orange zest. This gives a festive vibe and brightens the flavors. You can also use cranberries for a tart surprise.
Storage Info
Keeping the Cake Fresh
To keep your apple streusel coffee cake fresh, store it properly. You can leave it at room temperature for a day or two. Just wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This keeps it soft and moist. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it. In the fridge, it stays good for up to a week. Just remember to cover it well to avoid drying.
Freezing the Cake
Freezing the cake is a great way to save some for later. To freeze it, let the cake cool completely. Slice it into pieces and wrap each slice in plastic wrap. Then, put the slices in a freezer bag or container. This keeps the air out and the cake fresh. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, take a slice out and place it in the fridge overnight to thaw.
Reheating Tips
To reheat your cake, use the oven or microwave. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake slice on a baking sheet and warm it for about 10 minutes. This method keeps it moist and tasty. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too. Heat it for 10 to 15 seconds. Warm cake pairs perfectly with coffee or tea, but cold cake is still delightful. Enjoy it however you like!
FAQs
How can I make my apple streusel coffee cake moist?
To keep your cake moist, use sour cream. This ingredient adds richness. Make sure not to overmix the batter. Mixing too much can lead to a dry cake. Another tip is to bake it just right. You want it firm but not dry.
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use different apples. Granny Smith apples work well for their tartness. Other options include Honeycrisp or Fuji apples. Each type will give a unique flavor. Just remember to peel and dice them.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. You can also lightly press the top. If it springs back, it’s done baking.
What can I serve with apple streusel coffee cake?
This cake pairs well with coffee or tea. You can also serve it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. A dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a nice touch too.
How long does the cake last after baking?
The cake lasts about three days at room temperature. Store it in an airtight container. If you keep it in the fridge, it can last up to a week. For longer storage, freeze it for up to three months.
This article covers apple streusel coffee cake from ingredients to storage tips. You learned how to pick the best apples, prepare the batter, and make a tasty streusel topping. Remember, you can change flavors and make it suit your needs. Fresh and warm is the way to serve it. Following these steps helps to ensure a delicious cake every time. Enjoy your baking and sharing it with family or friends.
