Name: Delicious Apple Coffee Cake with Apple Cider Glaze
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 3 h
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (for cake); ½ tsp fine sea salt (for cake); 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for cake); ½ tsp ground nutmeg (for cake); ¼ tsp ginger, pumpkin pie spice, or allspice (for cake); 6 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature (for cake); 1 cup granulated sugar (for cake); ¼ cup light or dark brown sugar (for cake); 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; ¾ cup full-fat sour cream, room temperature; 2 medium apples, diced (about 1 ½ cups); ½ cup all-purpose flour (for streusel); ¼ cup packed light brown sugar (for streusel); 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for streusel); ½ tsp ground cinnamon (for streusel); ¼ tsp fine sea salt (for streusel); 3 ½ tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for streusel); 1 ¼ cups apple cider (for glaze); 1 ½ cups powdered sugar, sifted; Optional: ½ tsp pure vanilla extract or a tiny pinch of ground cinnamon (for glaze)

Apple Coffee Cake With Apple Cider Glaze is more than just a baked good; it’s an invitation to coziness, a warm embrace on a crisp morning, or the perfect companion to your afternoon coffee. I am absolutely delighted to share a recipe that transforms simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary. Imagine the enticing aroma of cinnamon-spiced apples and buttery cake wafting through your home, promising a slice of pure comfort. This beloved treat, rooted in European sweet bread traditions that found their way into American kitchens, has long been a staple for family breakfasts, festive brunches, and casual gatherings. It’s a dish that evokes nostalgia and creates new cherished memories with every single bite.

Why This Apple Coffee Cake Steals the Show

People adore this particular cake for its incredible balance of flavors and textures. The cake itself is wonderfully moist, studded with tender, sweet apples that burst with seasonal goodness. Then there’s the delightful crumble topping, adding a satisfying buttery crunch, which contrasts beautifully with the soft cake. But what truly sets this recipe apart, in my opinion, is the luscious and tangy Apple Coffee Cake With Apple Cider Glaze. This glaze doesn’t just add a touch of sweetness; it infuses every crevice with a vibrant, apple-y zing that brightens the entire experience, making each mouthful a symphony of autumn. Get ready to bake a masterpiece that will surely become a new favorite!

Ingredients:

For the Apple Coffee Cake:
- 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting the pan. I always recommend using a kitchen scale for accuracy, especially in baking!
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder. This helps our cake rise beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda. Another leavening agent that works wonders with the acidity of sour cream.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. For that quintessential warm, cozy flavor that pairs perfectly with apples.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg. A little hint of this spice really elevates the flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt. Don’t skip the salt; it balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature. This is crucial for achieving that light, fluffy texture.
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar. For sweetness and structure in the cake.
- ½ cup (100g) packed light brown sugar. Adds depth of flavor and moisture.
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature. Room temperature eggs emulsify better with the butter and sugar, leading to a smoother batter.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. A must-have for almost any sweet baked good.
- ¾ cup (180g) full-fat sour cream, at room temperature. This is my secret for a super moist and tender coffee cake! You can also use buttermilk if you prefer.
- 2 medium apples, about 1 ½ cups diced. I love using Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith for their firm texture and delightful flavor, which hold up well during baking. Peel, core, and dice them into small ½-inch pieces.
For the Cinnamon Streusel Topping:
- ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour.
- ¼ cup (50g) packed light brown sugar.
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt.
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, very cold and cut into small cubes. Cold butter is key for that crumbly, distinct streusel texture.
For the Apple Cider Glaze:
- 1 cup (240ml) apple cider, not apple juice. The richer flavor of cider is essential here.
- 1 ½ cups (180g) powdered sugar (also known as confectioners’ sugar), sifted if clumpy.
- Optional: ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract or a tiny pinch of ground cinnamon for extra flavor.

Prepping for Perfection: Gathering & Getting Started

Prepare Your Baking Pan and Preheat the Oven: Before we dive into the delightful task of baking, let’s get our oven and pan ready. Preheat your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). Then, generously grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or baking spray. For an extra layer of non-stick assurance, I like to lightly dust the greased pan with a little all-purpose flour, tapping out any excess. Alternatively, you can line the bottom with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the two longer sides to create “handles” – this makes lifting the finished cake out a breeze, especially if you plan to transfer it to a serving platter. This simple step ensures your magnificent Apple Coffee Cake With Apple Cider Glaze comes out cleanly and beautifully.
Prepare the Apples: Next, let’s get our star fruit ready! Take your two medium apples (about 1 ½ cups once diced). Carefully peel them using a vegetable peeler, then core them – an apple corer makes quick work of this, but a sharp knife works just as well. Once peeled and cored, dice the apples into small ½-inch pieces. I find that this size is perfect because they soften nicely during baking without becoming mushy, and you get a lovely apple bite in every slice of your homemade apple coffee cake. Set these aside for now.
Whip Up the Cinnamon Streusel Topping: Now for the glorious streusel – this crunchy, sweet topping is truly what makes a coffee cake irresistible. In a medium bowl, combine the ½ cup all-purpose flour, ¼ cup packed light brown sugar, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt. Give these dry ingredients a quick whisk to ensure they’re thoroughly combined.
Once the dry ingredients are mixed, add your very cold, cubed 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter. The colder the butter, the better your streusel will be, as it helps create those distinct crumbs rather than melting into the flour too quickly. Using your fingertips, a pastry blender, or two knives, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter still visible. This might take a few minutes, but resist the urge to overwork it; we want texture here! Once achieved, set your perfectly crumbly cinnamon streusel aside. You’ll thank me later for this crunchy addition to your Apple Coffee Cake With Apple Cider Glaze.
Whisk Dry Cake Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon fine sea salt. Whisking ensures that all the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour, preventing any lumps and ensuring a consistent rise for your cake. This also aerates the flour slightly, contributing to a lighter texture. Set this bowl aside.

Crafting the Irresistible Apple Coffee Cake Batter

Cream Butter and Sugars: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or a large bowl with an electric hand mixer), add the ½ cup softened unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup packed light brown sugar. Beat on medium-high speed for about 3-5 minutes, or until the mixture is visibly light in color and incredibly fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl once or twice during this process to ensure everything is evenly incorporated. This creaming process is vital; it incorporates air into the butter and sugar, which contributes significantly to the cake’s light and tender texture. It’s the foundation of a truly excellent apple coffee cake.
Add Eggs: Reduce the mixer speed to low. Add the 2 large room temperature eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated. After adding each egg, take a moment to scrape down the sides of the bowl. This ensures that no hidden pockets of unmixed butter or sugar are left behind, leading to a homogenous and smooth batter. The batter might look a little curdled after the first egg, but it should come together beautifully after the second. Be patient and allow each egg to fully combine before adding the next.
Incorporate Vanilla and Sour Cream: With the mixer still on low speed, pour in the 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract and ¾ cup room temperature full-fat sour cream. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage; we just want everything to be incorporated. The sour cream is a game-changer here, lending an incredible moisture and tenderness to the apple coffee cake that you’ll absolutely adore. Its acidity also works with the baking soda to give the cake a lovely lift.
Alternately Add Dry and Wet Ingredients: Now, it’s time to bring the wet and dry ingredients together. With the mixer on its lowest speed, or by hand with a spatula, add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients in three additions, alternating with the sour cream mixture. Here’s the rhythm I follow:
- Add about one-third of the dry ingredients, mix on low until just barely combined.
- Add about half of the remaining sour cream mixture, mix until just combined.
- Add another third of the dry ingredients, mix until just combined.
- Add the remaining sour cream mixture, mix until just combined.
- Finish with the last third of the dry ingredients, mixing only until just combined and no streaks of flour remain.
The key here is to not overmix. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour too much, which can lead to a tough, dry cake. We want a tender, delicate crumb for our Apple Coffee Cake With Apple Cider Glaze. A few small lumps are perfectly fine.
Gently Fold in Diced Apples: Finally, the star of the show makes its grand entrance! Remove the bowl from the mixer (if using) and grab a sturdy rubber spatula. Gently fold in your diced apples until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. This step should be done by hand to avoid bruising the apples or overmixing the batter. You want every slice to have a lovely distribution of those tender, baked apple pieces. Your batter for the apple coffee cake is now complete and ready for baking!

Assembling and Baking Your Apple Coffee Cake Masterpiece

Transfer Batter to Pan: Carefully spoon the thick, apple-studded batter into your prepared 9×13-inch baking pan. Use your spatula to gently spread the batter evenly across the bottom of the pan, making sure it reaches all the corners. A level surface will ensure even baking and a beautiful presentation.
Sprinkle Streusel Topping: Now for the finishing touch before baking! Take your prepared cinnamon streusel topping and generously sprinkle it evenly over the top of the cake batter. You can gently press it down slightly if you like, but it’s not strictly necessary. Don’t be shy; a good amount of streusel is what makes this a true apple coffee cake delight. Ensure an even layer so every slice gets some of that delightful crunch.
Bake Your Apple Coffee Cake: Place the pan into your preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for approximately 45-55 minutes. Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.

How to tell when your Apple Coffee Cake is done:

The cake is ready when a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center (avoiding a large apple piece) comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached. The top should be a beautiful golden brown, and the streusel should be caramelized and fragrant. You’ll also notice the edges of the cake begin to pull away slightly from the sides of the pan. Don’t rush this step; properly baked cake is the foundation for an amazing Apple Coffee Cake With Apple Cider Glaze.
Cool the Cake: Once baked to golden perfection, carefully remove the pan from the oven. Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 20-30 minutes. This initial cooling period allows the cake to set and firm up, preventing it from breaking apart when you eventually remove it. After this time, you can carefully lift the cake out of the pan using the parchment paper handles (if you used them) and transfer it directly to the wire rack to cool completely. Cooling completely before glazing is crucial; if you glaze a warm cake, the glaze will simply melt and absorb, rather than forming a beautiful, distinct layer. Patience is a virtue, especially when waiting for this delicious apple coffee cake!

Whipping Up the Luscious Apple Cider Glaze

Reduce the Apple Cider: While the cake is cooling, let’s make our star glaze! Pour the 1 cup of apple cider into a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the cider has reduced by about half, becoming a syrupy consistency. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes, but keep a close watch, as it can go from perfect to over-reduced quickly. You’ll notice the color deepens, and it will coat the back of a spoon more readily. We’re concentrating the wonderful apple flavor here, which will be the heart of our apple cider glaze. Once reduced, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. It should still be warm, but not piping hot, when you mix it with the powdered sugar.
Prepare the Apple Cider Glaze: In a medium bowl, place the 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar. If your powdered sugar is particularly clumpy, give it a quick sift through a fine-mesh sieve to ensure a silky smooth glaze. Gradually whisk in 2-3 tablespoons of the slightly cooled, reduced apple cider, starting with two tablespoons. Stir well until a smooth, pourable, yet thick glaze forms. The consistency you’re aiming for is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still thin enough to drizzle beautifully. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit more reduced cider, half a teaspoon at a time. If it’s too thin, add a little more sifted powdered sugar. This is your chance to customize the perfect drizzle for your Apple Coffee Cake With Apple Cider Glaze. If you like, stir in ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract or a tiny pinch of cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor complexity.

Serving Your Homemade Apple Coffee Cake With Apple Cider Glaze

Glaze the Cooled Cake: Once your apple coffee cake has completely cooled – and I mean completely, otherwise your beautiful glaze will melt right into the cake – it’s time for the grand finale! Using a spoon or a whisk, drizzle the apple cider glaze generously over the top of the cooled cake. You can opt for an artistic zigzag pattern or simply cover the entire top. Let the glaze drip down the sides for a rustic, inviting look. Allow the glaze to set for about 15-20 minutes at room temperature, which will give it a slightly firm, shiny finish. This transforms your already delicious coffee cake into the exquisite Apple Coffee Cake With Apple Cider Glaze.
Slice and Serve: Now for the best part! Once the glaze has set, slice your magnificent Apple Coffee Cake With Apple Cider Glaze into generous squares. It’s truly wonderful served slightly warm (a quick zap in the microwave for 15-20 seconds per slice works wonders) or at room temperature, perhaps with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of milk.

Storage Tips for your Apple Coffee Cake:

Leftovers, if there are any, can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If refrigerating, let it come to room temperature or gently warm it before serving to bring back its tender texture and vibrant flavors. Enjoy every single glorious bite of your homemade creation!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, friends! We’ve journeyed through the steps, savored the aromas in our minds, and now we stand at the precipice of pure baking bliss. This isn’t just another recipe; it’s an invitation to experience true culinary comfort and joy. I genuinely believe that once you try this, you’ll understand exactly why I’m so passionate about it. The way the tender, spiced apples melt into the moist, buttery cake, perfectly complemented by that crisp, sweet streusel topping, is nothing short of magical. And then, the grand finale – that tangy, glistening apple cider glaze that pulls all the exquisite flavors together, adding a vibrant finish that truly elevates every single bite. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes, a perfect balance of homey warmth and sophisticated flavor, making the Apple Coffee Cake With Apple Cider Glaze an undeniable must-try in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Will Become Your New Favorite:

From the moment those autumn scents begin to waft through your home as it bakes, you’ll know you’ve stumbled upon something special. It’s more than just a cake; it’s an experience. The simplicity of its preparation belies the impressive result, making it a fantastic choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. Imagine waking up to the aroma, or serving it at a bustling brunch, watching as smiles erupt around the table. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, sparking conversations and creating cherished memories. Its versatility also means it fits seamlessly into almost any occasion, whether it’s a quiet morning with a cup of coffee, an afternoon treat with friends, or a delightful dessert after a family meal. The layers of flavor, from the tender fruit to the crumbly topping and the sweet-tart glaze, are simply irresistible, ensuring every piece is devoured with enthusiasm.

Serving Suggestions & Delightful Variations:

While this coffee cake is absolutely sublime on its own, especially fresh from the oven, still slightly warm, I love to think about all the ways we can enjoy it. For a truly indulgent experience, a generous scoop of good quality vanilla bean ice cream, melting gently over a warm slice, is pure heaven. The contrast of warm cake and cold ice cream, along with the complementary flavors, is simply divine. A dollop of freshly whipped cream, perhaps infused with a touch of cinnamon or a splash of maple syrup, also makes for a lovely addition. For a cozy morning, pair it with a steaming mug of your favorite coffee or a robust black tea. If you’re serving it for brunch, consider a mimosa or a glass of chilled apple cider to complete the autumnal theme. Don’t be afraid to experiment with garnishes either; a light dusting of powdered sugar, a sprinkle of toasted pecans, or a few thin apple slices can add both visual appeal and extra texture.

Feeling adventurous? The beauty of baking lies in personalizing your creations! While apples are the star here, you could try substituting half of them with pears for a slightly different, yet equally delicious, twist. For an extra layer of spice, a pinch of cardamom or a touch more nutmeg in the cake batter can be wonderful. If you’re a nut lover, folding toasted walnuts or pecans into the streusel topping adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. For the glaze, feel free to get creative; a tiny splash of bourbon or rum can add depth for an adult-only version, or a hint of orange zest can introduce a bright, citrusy note. You could even play with different extracts, like almond or maple, in the glaze to subtly alter its character. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this recipe to your own preferences and seasonal availability.

Your Turn! Share Your Baking Adventure!

Now, it’s your moment to shine! I’ve shared my heart for this recipe, and I truly hope you’re feeling inspired to roll up your sleeves and bring this incredible Apple Coffee Cake With Apple Cider Glaze to life in your own kitchen. There’s something so incredibly satisfying about the process of baking, from the measuring and mixing to the glorious scent that fills your home, and finally, that first glorious bite. It’s a journey that culminates in pure deliciousness. So please, don’t hesitate! Give this recipe a try, embrace the joy of baking, and prepare to be utterly delighted by the results. Once you’ve created your masterpiece, I would absolutely love to hear all about your experience. Did you add your own twist? What was your favorite part? Snap a photo, share your stories, and let’s celebrate the simple, profound pleasure of homemade treats together. Happy baking!