Moist Apple Crumble Coffee Cake

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Sink your fork into this incredibly tender Moist Apple Crumble Coffee Cake, where each bite bursts with the comforting flavors of spiced apples and buttery streusel. This cozy, layered coffee cake combines the richness of a soft, vanilla-infused base with the cinnamon-kissed apple filling nestled between and topped with golden crumble. Whether you’re looking for a soul-warming dessert, a show-stopping brunch treat, or a new favorite in your breakfast ideas, this cake is a must-bake.

Perfect with a hot cup of coffee or served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this recipe strikes that ideal balance between decadence and home-baked charm. The juicy apple filling keeps the interior incredibly moist, while the crumb topping adds that irresistible crunch. It’s the kind of easy recipe that feels special enough for guests but comforting enough for a weekend treat.

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Ingredients for this Moist Apple Crumble Coffee Cake

For the Apple Filling:

• 3 medium apples, peeled and diced
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp cornstarch

For the Cake Batter:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup sour cream

For the Crumb Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ⅔ cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ cup cold butter, cubed

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Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a small saucepan, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture has thickened slightly. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

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Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside in the fridge to keep it firm while you prepare the cake batter.

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Step 3: Preheat and Prep the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.

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Step 4: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with sour cream, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.

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Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Spread half the cake batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out. Layer evenly with half the cooked apple filling, then sprinkle a third of the crumb topping. Add the remaining batter on top, followed by the rest of the apple filling, and finish with the remaining crumb topping.

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Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (a little apple filling on it is fine, but not raw batter). Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

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Estimated Nutrition (per serving, based on 12 servings)

• Calories: 390
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 190mg
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 30g
• Protein: 4g

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different fruit instead of apples?

Yes! Pears or peaches work well in place of apples—just adjust cooking time slightly depending on the softness of the fruit.

2. What type of apples are best for this cake?

Firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji provide the best balance of sweetness and texture.

3. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely—swap in a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it’s formulated for baking and contains xanthan gum.

4. How do I keep the crumb topping from sinking into the batter?

Make sure your crumb topping is chilled and the batter is thick enough before layering. This helps keep the crumb layer distinct.

5. Can I bake this in a round or bundt pan instead?

Yes, but adjust the baking time. A bundt pan may take closer to 60–70 minutes, and layering may vary slightly.

6. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Microwave individual pieces for 10–15 seconds or reheat in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes for a crisp topping.

7. Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! Bake it a day in advance and store covered at room temperature or refrigerate, then reheat just before serving.

8. Can I add nuts to the crumble?

Definitely—add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping for added crunch and flavor.

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