Apple Crumb Coffee Cake

Apple Crumb Coffee Cake is a delightful, comforting dessert that perfectly balances the sweetness of tender apples with the warmth of cinnamon and the buttery goodness of a crumbly topping. This cake is moist and flavorful, with a soft, fluffy base that pairs beautifully with the juicy apple filling and the crunchy streusel topping. Whether enjoyed with a morning cup of coffee, as an afternoon snack, or as a sweet end to a meal, this coffee cake is sure to be a hit. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a favorite for gatherings or a cozy treat at home.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 cups peeled and diced apples (about 2 medium apples)

For the Crumb Topping:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Glaze (optional):

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tbsp milk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Fold in the diced apples.
5. Make the Crumb Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
6. Assemble the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the batter.
7. Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The topping should be golden and slightly crisp.
8. Prepare the Glaze (Optional): While the cake cools, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make a glaze. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
9. Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. Serve with a drizzle of glaze, if desired, and enjoy with your favorite coffee or tea.

Apple Crumb Coffee Cake is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s perfect for any occasion. Its comforting warmth and sweetness make it an ideal treat for fall, but it’s sure to be enjoyed year-round!