Amazing Apple Cider Coffee Cake Delight

Apple Cider Coffee Cake has always been my ultimate comfort food, especially when the leaves start to turn. I remember my mom making this for Sunday mornings when I was a kid – the entire house would fill with the warm, sweet scent of cinnamon and baked apples, making it the absolute best fall coffee cake recipe. It’s more than just a cake; it’s a memory baked into every bite. This apple cider coffee cake recipe is my take on her classic, ensuring it’s perfectly moist and bursting with cozy flavors. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Coffee Cake

• The flavor is pure autumn bliss, a perfect blend of warm spices and sweet apples that feels like a hug in a slice.
• It’s surprisingly quick to whip up, making it an easy apple cider coffee cake for busy mornings or last-minute guests.
• You get a wonderfully moist apple cider coffee cake thanks to the combination of apple cider and sour cream, ensuring no dry bites!
• It’s a fantastic budget-friendly treat, using common pantry staples and seasonal apples.
• This cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, loved by both kids and adults for its comforting taste.
• The buttery streusel topping adds a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the tender cake.
• It’s a versatile bake, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a simple afternoon pick-me-up.

Ingredients for Homemade Apple Cider Coffee Cake

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious apple cider crumb cake. The combination of apple cider and sour cream is key to its incredible moisture, while the cinnamon and nutmeg bring that classic fall spice. This recipe makes a truly decadent apple cider cake with streusel.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – the base for our cake structure
• 2 tsp baking powder – for a good rise
• ½ tsp baking soda – helps with tenderness and browning
• ½ tsp salt – balances the sweetness
• 1½ tsp ground cinnamon – essential for that warm, cozy flavor
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg – adds a subtle depth of spice
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – for richness and tender texture
• ½ cup brown sugar – adds moisture and caramel notes
• ½ cup granulated sugar – for sweetness and structure
• 2 large eggs – bind everything together
• ¾ cup apple cider – the star ingredient for moisture and flavor
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt – ensures a super moist cake
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – enhances all the other flavors
• For the cinnamon swirl and topping:
• ½ cup brown sugar – for the sweet swirl
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon – more spice for the swirl
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour – for the crumbly topping
• ¼ cup cold butter, cubed – creates the perfect streusel texture
• Optional glaze:
• ½ cup powdered sugar – for a sweet drizzle
• 1 – 2 tbsp apple cider or milk – to thin the glaze
• ½ tsp vanilla extract – for flavor in the glaze

How to Make Apple Cider Coffee Cake

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a moment to prepare your baking pan by greasing and flouring a 9×13-inch pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, ½ tsp salt, 1½ tsp ground cinnamon, and ¼ tsp ground nutmeg. This dry mix is the foundation of our delicious cake.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, cream together the ½ cup unsalted butter, softened, ½ cup brown sugar, and ½ cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a tender cake crumb.
4. Step 4: Beat in the 2 large eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract for that classic warm aroma.
5. Step 5: Gently mix in the ¾ cup apple cider and ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt until the batter is smooth and well combined. This liquid combination is what makes our cake so wonderfully moist.
6. Step 6: Gradually add the dry ingredients from Step 2 to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few streaks of flour are okay.
7. Step 7: In a small bowl, prepare the swirl by combining the ½ cup brown sugar and 1 tbsp ground cinnamon. This mixture will create beautiful, flavorful ribbons throughout your spiced apple cider coffee cake.
8. Step 8: Spread half of the cake batter evenly into your prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter.
9. Step 9: Carefully spread the remaining batter over the first layer and top with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This ensures a delightful flavor in every bite of your cinnamon apple cider coffee cake.
10. Step 10: For the crumble topping, combine ¾ cup all-purpose flour and ¼ cup cold butter, cubed in a small bowl. Use a fork or your fingertips to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this evenly over the top of the cake.
11. Step 11: Bake for 40–45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
12. Step 12: Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes.
13. Step 13: If using, whisk together ½ cup powdered sugar, 1–2 tbsp apple cider or milk, and ½ tsp vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this optional glaze over the warm cake.

Pro Tips for the Best Apple Cider Coffee Cake

Want to elevate your bake? I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make sure this cake is absolutely perfect every time. Follow these tips for a truly memorable treat that everyone will rave about.

• Always use room temperature butter and eggs for the cake batter. This helps them incorporate smoothly, creating a lighter, more tender crumb for your homemade apple cider coffee cake.
• Don’t overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; a few small lumps are better than a tough cake.
• Ensure your apple cider is good quality and not too watery. A concentrated cider will give you a more intense flavor. For more on choosing quality cider, check out this guide to apple cider.
• Let the cake cool sufficiently before adding the optional glaze. A too-hot cake will cause the glaze to melt and disappear, rather than creating a pretty drizzle.

What’s the secret to perfect Apple Cider Coffee Cake?

The real secret lies in the balance of moisture and spice. Using both apple cider and sour cream in the batter guarantees a wonderfully moist apple cider coffee cake. Plus, don’t skimp on the cinnamon-sugar swirl; it’s what makes this an incredible apple cider cake with streusel.

Can I make Apple Cider Coffee Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake is fantastic for meal prep. You can bake it a day in advance and store it, covered, at room temperature. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day. For more on food storage, you can consult USDA food safety guidelines.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Apple Cider Coffee Cake?

A common pitfall is overbaking, which leads to a dry cake. Keep an eye on the baking time and test with a toothpick. Also, ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh for proper leavening. Finally, use good-quality ingredients for the best flavor. You can learn more about baking science and ingredient functions on King Arthur Baking’s learning resources.

Best Ways to Serve Apple Cider Coffee Cake

This delightful cake is perfect for so many occasions! For a cozy breakfast or brunch, I love serving a warm slice alongside a fresh cup of coffee or a steaming mug of tea. The sweet, spiced flavors are a natural fit for a cake with apple cider and cinnamon. It also makes a wonderful dessert. Imagine it served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream – pure bliss!

Don’t forget to pair it with a glass of cold apple cider or even a warm latte for an extra autumnal treat. It’s versatile enough for a casual get-together or a more festive holiday spread. For more ideas on hosting, check out our about Niki Air Fryer page for inspiration.

Nutrition Facts for Apple Cider Coffee Cake

This classic apple cider coffee cake is a delightful treat. Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving, giving you a sense of what you’re enjoying in this delicious baked good.

• Calories: 340
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 31g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 210mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your homemade apple cider coffee cake. For more information on our practices, please see our privacy policy.

How to Store and Reheat Apple Cider Coffee Cake

Proper storage is key to keeping this delicious apple cider cake recipe for fall tasting fresh and moist. Once the cake has cooled completely on a wire rack, transfer it to an airtight container. At room temperature, it will stay wonderfully fresh for about 3-4 days. If you know you won’t finish it that quickly, or if your kitchen is particularly warm, storing it in the refrigerator is a great option. It will keep well in the fridge for up to a week. For details on our terms, visit our terms of use.

For longer storage, this cake freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag. Properly stored, your homemade apple cider coffee cake can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can gently warm a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or bake it in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This ensures you can enjoy a taste of fall anytime. If you have questions, feel free to contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cider Coffee Cake

What is apple cider coffee cake?

An apple cider coffee cake is a delightful baked good that combines the comforting flavors of a classic coffee cake with the warm, cozy essence of apple cider and fall spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It typically features a tender cake base, a sweet cinnamon-sugar swirl, and a buttery streusel topping, making it a perfect treat for any time of day.

Why is apple cider coffee cake popular?

This cake is incredibly popular because it evokes the feeling of autumn and cozy gatherings. The combination of sweet apples, warm spices, and a tender cake is universally loved. It’s also versatile, making it suitable for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, and it’s often seen as an upgrade to a traditional coffee cake, offering a unique seasonal twist.

Can I use store-bought apple cider?

Yes, absolutely! Using store-bought apple cider is perfectly fine for this recipe. For the best flavor, I recommend using a good quality, 100% pure apple cider rather than apple juice, as it will have a deeper, more concentrated apple flavor. This will contribute to a more delicious homemade apple cider coffee cake.

What’s the difference between apple cider coffee cake and a regular coffee cake?

The main difference lies in the star ingredient: apple cider. While a traditional coffee cake might rely solely on milk or buttermilk, this version incorporates apple cider into the batter, infusing it with a subtle fruity sweetness and moisture. The addition of fall spices like cinnamon and nutmeg also gives it a distinct seasonal character, making it a wonderful cake with apple cider and cinnamon.

Variations of Apple Cider Coffee Cake You Can Try

This versatile apple cider coffee cake is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious twists! If you’re looking to switch things up or cater to specific needs, consider these delightful variations. You can transform this recipe into a beautiful apple cider bundt cake coffee cake by baking it in a bundt pan, which gives it a stunning presentation and a slightly different texture. For a denser, richer treat, adapt it into an apple cider pound cake coffee cake by adjusting the flour and liquid ratios slightly.

For a gluten-free version, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free baking blend. You can also make it vegan by substituting the butter with vegan butter, the eggs with a flax egg or commercial egg replacer, and the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt. Adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel topping or batter provides a wonderful nutty crunch, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of your homemade creation. For more information on data privacy, please see our GDPR policy.

Amazing Apple Cider Coffee Cake Delight

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• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 12-14 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Apple Cider Coffee Cake recipe combines classic coffee cake with warm apple cider and cinnamon sugar swirls, topped with a buttery streusel. It’s a moist and flavorful cake perfect for fall mornings or dessert.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• For the cake:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup apple cider
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For the cinnamon swirl and topping:
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cold butter, cubed
• Optional glaze:
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 – 2 tbsp apple cider or milk
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
5. Mix in sour cream and apple cider until smooth.
6. Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
8. Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle with half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
9. Add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the cinnamon sugar.
10. For the crumble topping, mix flour, brown sugar, and cold butter with a fork until crumbly, then sprinkle over the top.
11. Bake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
12. Cool for 20 minutes.
13. Drizzle with optional glaze made from powdered sugar, apple cider, and vanilla.

Notes

• For stronger apple flavor, reduce apple cider by half before using.
• Add chopped apples or nuts for extra texture.
• The cake stays moist for several days, making it great for make-ahead breakfasts.
• Let the cake cool before glazing to avoid melting the drizzle.
• Use full-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt for best results.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert, Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 31g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

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