Irresistible Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping

If you are looking to indulge in a warm, comforting treat that bursts with fruity sweetness and a delightful crunch, this Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping is your new best friend. Packed with tender apple pieces, aromatic spices, and a perfectly crumbly, plant-based streusel topping, this cake is the ultimate companion for your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The moist texture combined with layers of flavor makes it irresistibly good and beautifully simple to create.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect balance of flavors: Sweet apples and warm cinnamon come together to create a cozy taste sensation.
• Moist and tender crumb: Every bite melts in your mouth thanks to the carefully crafted batter.
• Crispy cinnamon streusel topping: Adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake.
• Simple ingredients: Uses items you likely have on hand, making it fuss-free to whip up.
• Versatile for any occasion: Whether breakfast, brunch, or snack time, it hits the spot perfectly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping plays an essential role, from the tangy apples providing freshness to the natural gelling agent in the crumb that brings that wonderful texture. Here’s a rundown of what you’ll need for both the cake and the topping.

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb when combined with wet ingredients.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Help the cake rise and achieve a light texture.
• Ground cinnamon (natural): Infuses warming spice into both the batter and streusel.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake, balancing tartness from the apples.
• Brown sugar (natural): Adds moisture and depth of flavor to the streusel topping.
• Plant-based butter: Enriches the cake and creates a crumbly topping.
• Apples: Crisp and juicy varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji bring freshness and texture.
• Plain plant-based yogurt: Keeps the cake moist and tender with a subtle tang.
• Apple cider vinegar (natural): Reacts with baking soda to help the cake rise beautifully.
• Vanilla extract (natural): Adds aromatic sweetness to the batter.
• Natural gelling agent: Binds the streusel topping, giving it just the right firmness.

Variations for Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping

This recipe is incredibly adaptable and welcomes your personal twist. Whether you want to change the fruit, tweak the spices, or make it perfect for your dietary preferences, the possibilities are delightful and easy.

• Fruit swaps: Try pears or peaches in place of apples for a fresh seasonal spin.
• Nutty crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the streusel for added texture.
• Spice it up: Mix in cardamom or nutmeg with the cinnamon for more complex warmth.
• Sweet glaze: Drizzle a simple maple syrup glaze on top to elevate the flavor.
• Plant-based cream cheese (plant-based): Create a creamy frosting layer for extra indulgence.

How to Make Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping

Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Topping

Combine brown sugar (natural), ground cinnamon (natural), all-purpose flour, plant-based butter, and the natural gelling agent into a crumbly mixture using your fingers or a pastry blender. Set aside while you prepare the cake batter to allow the flavors meld and the topping to have just the right texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Peel (if desired), core, and chop apples into small, evenly sized pieces to ensure they distribute consistently in the batter, providing bursts of juicy apple in every bite.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (natural) to combine and aerate.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk plant-based butter melted but slightly cooled, granulated sugar, plant-based yogurt, vanilla extract (natural), and apple cider vinegar (natural) until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Bring Batter Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined, then fold in apple pieces carefully to avoid overmixing which can make the cake dense.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Pour the batter into a greased or lined baking pan and evenly spread the prepared cinnamon streusel topping over the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This step allows the streusel topping to set and the flavors to intensify, making it even more irresistible.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping

• Choose firm apples: Opt for varieties that hold shape well to avoid a mushy texture.
• Don’t overmix: Combine batter just until ingredients come together to keep the crumb light and tender.
• Keep streusel cold: Use chilled plant-based butter for the topping to achieve a better crumb structure.
• Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures even mixing and better texture.
• Check baking time: Start testing with a toothpick at 45 minutes to avoid drying out the cake.

How to Serve Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping

Garnishes

Top slices with a dusting of cinnamon sugar or a light drizzle of warmed maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness and delightful presentation.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a cup of rich coffee or a warm herbal tea to balance the cake’s sweetness and bring out the cozy spices beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the cake into small squares and serve on decorative plates with fresh apple slices or a dollop of whipped plant-based cream to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness and moisture.

Freezing

Slice the cooled cake, wrap pieces individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to two months for convenient, ready-to-enjoy treats.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for 30-60 seconds to revive the cake’s moistness and bring out the aromatic spices.

FAQs

Can I use other fruits besides apples?

Absolutely! Pears, peaches, or even berries can be swapped in to tailor the cake to your favorite flavors or seasonal availability.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, you can enjoy a deliciously tender and safe cake.

What can I use if I don’t have plant-based yogurt?

You can substitute with an equal amount of plant-based milk combined with a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar (natural) to maintain the tender crumb and acidity.

Can I prepare the batter the night before?

It’s best to bake the cake fresh for optimal texture, but you can prepare the streusel topping and chopped apples the day before to save time.

How do I store leftover apple coffee cake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage to keep it fresh.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping is a heartwarming recipe that brings joy with every bite. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, it’s perfect for brightening up any day or sharing with loved ones. Trust me, once you try it, it will become your go-to sweet treat that feels like a cozy, delicious hug in cake form.

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