If you’re searching for a wonderfully moist and flavorful treat, this Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping is exactly what you need. Bursting with fresh apple goodness and topped with a crunchy cinnamon streusel, this cake blends the perfect balance of sweet and spice with comforting textures. It’s a delightful bake that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and satisfies your cravings, whether enjoyed with your morning coffee or as an afternoon snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple to Make: The straightforward steps make it easy for bakers of all levels to succeed.
Moist and Tender Texture: Fresh apples keep the cake juicy and soft, enhancing every bite.
Irresistible Flavor Pairing: The cinnamon streusel topping adds that perfect crisp sweetness that balances with the apples.
Plant-Based Goodness: Made with plant-based ingredients, this cake is a wholesome option for everyone.
Versatile Anytime Treat: Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a coffee break snack that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient is chosen to contribute essential flavor, moisture, and texture to create the perfect Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping. Simple pantry staples combined with fresh apples and spices bring this recipe to life.

Fresh Apples: Adds natural sweetness and moisture for a juicy cake experience.
All-Purpose Flour: Ensures the structure is just right soft but sturdy enough to hold the topping.
Brown Sugar (natural): Gives a rich, caramel-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist without overpowering other flavors.
Plant-Based Yogurt: Adds tenderness and slight tanginess, enhancing the cake’s overall texture.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Helps the cake rise perfectly and stay airy.
Cinnamon (natural): Brings warmth and spice to both the cake and the streusel topping.
Natural Gelling Agent: Provides the right texture in the streusel without heaviness.
Plant-Based Butter: Creates a crumbly, buttery texture in the streusel topping.
Vanilla Extract (natural): Lends a sweet aroma and depth of flavor throughout the cake.

Variations for Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to personalize it depending on what you have or prefer. You can easily change things up to accommodate your taste or dietary needs.

Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the streusel for extra crunch and earthiness.
Spice it Up: Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves for a deeper spice profile.
Fruit Swap: Substitute or add pears or berries along with the apples for a seasonal variety.
Sweetener Switch: Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar for a different caramel nuance.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free baking flour blend for a delicious allergy-friendly option.

Irresistible Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping

How to Make Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and dice fresh apples into small chunks, ensuring they will melt into the cake as it bakes while still offering bursts of fruity flavor.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon (natural), and a pinch of salt to make a smooth and even base for your batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the plant-based yogurt, vegetable oil, vanilla extract (natural), and brown sugar (natural) until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures

Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently. Then fold in the diced apples, evenly distributing them without overmixing to keep your cake light and tender.

Step 5: Make the Cinnamon Streusel Topping

Mix together plant-based butter, brown sugar (natural), cinnamon (natural), flour, and a natural gelling agent until crumbly. This mixture will add a golden, crunchy layer atop the batter.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Pour the batter into a greased baking pan, evenly sprinkle the cinnamon streusel topping over the surface, and bake in a preheated oven until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling that your cake is perfectly done.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping

Use Fresh Apples: The juiciness of freshly diced apples elevates the flavor and moisture.
Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently fold ingredients to keep the texture light and soft.
Chill the Streusel Topping: Prepare the topping in advance and refrigerate it to help maintain that delicious crumble.
Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick carefully near the center to avoid opening and collapsing the cake.
Let Cool Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool slightly to allow the flavors to meld and enhance the texture.

How to Serve Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar (natural) or a drizzle of warm caramel (natural) sauce can elevate the presentation and provide an extra touch of sweetness.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs delightfully with a steaming cup of coffee or tea, and you can add a dollop of plant-based whipped cream on the side for indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the cake in individual ramekins for a charming single-serve option, or layer slices with a spread of apple butter for a luscious twist that impresses guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep the cake tightly wrapped or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to retain its fresh, moist texture.

Freezing

Slice the cake into portions and freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap followed by foil for up to three months perfect for those times you want a quick treat.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in a microwave or oven to bring back that just-baked softness and enjoy as if freshly made, especially when topped with a bit of plant-based butter or spread.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples in the recipe?

Absolutely! Varieties like Granny Smith provide tartness while Fuji or Gala add sweetness, so mixing types can create a wonderful balance.

Is this cake suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, all the ingredients highlighted here are plant-based, making it friendly for vegan bakers and eaters alike.

How do I keep the streusel topping from becoming soggy?

Make sure to sprinkle the topping evenly over the batter and avoid pressing it down, which helps maintain its crisp texture after baking.

What can I substitute for plant-based yogurt?

You can use any dairy-free yogurt of your choice, such as almond or coconut-based versions, to keep the cake moist and tender.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to enjoy a delicious and allergy-friendly apple coffee cake.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping brings the comfort of a homemade treat with every bite. Its inviting flavors, moist texture, and crumbly topping make it a delightful addition to any gathering or a well-deserved personal indulgence. Give it a try, and let your kitchen fill with warmth and the sweet scent of apple and cinnamon goodness.

Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping

Author: Anthony
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Plant-Based

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Description

This Apple Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel Topping is a moist and flavorful plant-based treat bursting with fresh apples and a crunchy cinnamon streusel. Perfectly balanced between sweet and spice, it offers comforting textures and inviting aromas that make it ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a coffee break snack.

Instructions

Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and dice fresh apples into small chunks to ensure they melt into the cake while baking but still provide bursts of fruity flavor.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon (natural), and salt to form a smooth and even base for your batter.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the plant-based yogurt, vegetable oil, vanilla extract (natural), and brown sugar (natural) until smooth and well combined.
Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring carefully. Then fold in the diced apples, distributing them evenly without overmixing to keep the cake light and tender.
Make the Cinnamon Streusel Topping: Mix plant-based butter, brown sugar (natural), cinnamon (natural), flour, and natural gelling agent until crumbly, creating a golden, crunchy layer to sprinkle on top.
Assemble and Bake: Pour the batter into a greased baking pan, sprinkle the cinnamon streusel topping evenly over the surface, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Notes

Use fresh apples for juiciness and enhanced flavor.
Do not overmix the batter to maintain a light and tender texture.
Chill the streusel topping before use to preserve its crumbly texture.
Test doneness by carefully inserting a toothpick near the center without disturbing the cake.
Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving to let flavors meld and texture set.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American