Name: Pecan Apple Crisp Coffee Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups peeled and thinly sliced Granny Smith apples; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 teaspoons cinnamon; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon baking soda; 1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

A cozy slice of fall wrapped in every bite, this Pecan Apple Crisp Coffee Cake brings together everything we love about crisp mornings, warm kitchens, and the scent of cinnamon apples baking. With a buttery, crumbly streusel topping and sweet apple filling nestled into a tender cake, it makes the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, need a crowd-pleaser for the holidays, or simply want to add a bit of joy to your morning coffee, this coffee cake delivers rich flavor and delightful textures. The brown sugar pecan crumble takes it to the next level, giving each forkful a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft apple layers underneath.

What Kind of Apples Work Best in Pecan Apple Crisp Coffee Cake?

Granny Smith apples are a favorite because their tartness balances the sweet cake and crumble topping. Honeycrisp and Fuji also work well, adding a natural juiciness without making the batter soggy. Whichever variety you use, slice them thin for even baking and that just-right soft texture.

Ingredients for the Pecan Apple Crisp Coffee Cake

Apples – Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith to hold their shape and offer a tangy contrast.

Pecans – Chopped pecans bring that signature crunch and nutty depth to the streusel layer.

Brown Sugar – Both in the filling and topping, brown sugar adds molasses-like richness and warmth.

Butter – Unsalted butter creates a moist cake and a rich, crumbly topping.

Cinnamon – A must-have spice for that warm, comforting aroma and flavor.

Flour – All-purpose flour provides the perfect structure to support the apple and streusel layers.

Eggs – Essential for binding the batter and adding moisture.

Baking Powder and Baking Soda – These leavening agents help the cake rise to fluffy perfection.

Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream – Adds tang and keeps the crumb extra moist.

Vanilla Extract – A subtle background note that enhances all the other flavors.

How To Make the Pecan Apple Crisp Coffee Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Peel, core, and thinly slice your apples. Toss them with a touch of cinnamon and brown sugar, then set aside to let the juices develop while you prep the rest.

Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping

In a bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, chopped pecans, and cold cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until crumbly. Chill until ready to use.

Step 3: Mix the Cake Batter

Cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla and yogurt. In a separate bowl, whisk together dry ingredients, then gradually add to the wet mix.

Step 4: Layer the Cake

Spread half the batter into a greased pan. Arrange the apple mixture evenly over it. Spoon the remaining batter on top and smooth out. Sprinkle generously with the pecan streusel.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the topping to set.

How to Serve and Store Pecan Apple Crisp Coffee Cake

Serve this coffee cake warm for a melt-in-your-mouth experience, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It also holds its own next to a strong cup of coffee or spiced chai.

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back that just-baked feel. You can also freeze slices individually for a grab-and-go treat that reheats beautifully.

What to Serve With Pecan Apple Crisp Coffee Cake?

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

The creamy coolness melts into the warm crumble, creating dessert magic.

Salted Caramel Drizzle

Add a little indulgence with a caramel sauce swirl over the top.

Whipped Mascarpone

Less sweet than whipped cream and extra rich, it elevates each bite.

Hot Apple Cider

A warm drink that echoes the spiced notes of the cake.

Maple Latte

Maple and pecan are a natural duo, and this cozy drink complements the coffee cake perfectly.

Greek Yogurt with Honey

For a lighter breakfast combo that balances richness with tang.

Crisp Bacon or Sausage

For a sweet and savory brunch contrast that satisfies every craving.

Fresh Berries

A handful of tart raspberries or blueberries brings brightness and color to the plate.

Want More Coffee Cake Ideas?

If you’re loving this cozy pecan apple creation, you’ll want to try more of our coffee cake and breakfast favorites:

Streusel Coffee Cake with buttery crumb topping.
Nutella French Toast Casserole for a chocolatey twist on breakfast.
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites that are perfect for brunch spreads.
Christmas Breakfast Casserole if you’re prepping ahead for a crowd.
Lusciously Soft Lemon Rolls for a zesty, fluffy alternative.

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Have you baked this beauty yet? Let us know how it turned out in the comments! Did you go classic or mix in a little something extra? Share your twist!

And if you’re looking for even more mouthwatering inspiration, check out our Pinterest page for daily treats and new favorites from ChefAlchemy.