If you have a soft spot for all things warm, cozy, and perfectly spiced, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Apple Coffee Cake (Classic Apple Dapple Cake) Recipe. Imagine tender, moist cake layers studded with tart granny smith apples and crunchy toasted nuts, all lifted by just the right hint of cinnamon and vanilla. This Apple Coffee Cake (Classic Apple Dapple Cake) Recipe is such a beloved classic for good reason — it’s easy to make, endlessly comforting, and pairs beautifully with your morning coffee or afternoon tea. Once you taste it, it’ll quickly become your go-to when you want a little slice of homey happiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, everyday ingredients is the first step toward baking up something truly magical. Each component plays a starring role: the apples add freshness and tartness, the nuts bring a satisfying crunch, and the blend of sugars and spices ensures every bite is bursting with layered flavor and a comforting aroma.
- 3 large eggs (room temp): Eggs provide moisture, richness, and help bind the cake together for that tender crumb.
- 1 cup oil (extra light olive oil or vegetable oil): Using oil keeps the cake soft and moist, without overpowering the delicate apple flavors.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while also helping with the crumb structure.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and roundness to the cake’s overall flavor profile.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (measured correctly*): The structure of this cake depends on the correct amount of flour to keep it light but sturdy enough to hold the yummy apples.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Just the right touch of spice that complements the apples perfectly.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the cake rise beautifully so it’s fluffy and tender inside.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 1/3 cups walnuts or pecans (toasted and chopped): Toasting nuts intensifies their flavor and adds a delightful crunch throughout the cake.
- 1 lb granny smith apples (2 large apples, cut into 3 cups): These tart apples keep the cake from being too sweet and bring a juicy freshness every bite.
- 1 cup light brown sugar: Combined with butter, this forms the buttery, caramelized streusel that tops the cake.
- 6 Tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth crumbly topping.
- 1/4 cup milk (any kind): Moistens the streusel topping ensuring it’s tender and slightly gooey.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the topping, making it irresistible.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness in the streusel topping perfectly.
How to Make Apple Coffee Cake (Classic Apple Dapple Cake) Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Apple-Streusel Topping
Start by creating that signature apple dapple streusel topping which makes this Apple Coffee Cake (Classic Apple Dapple Cake) Recipe so special. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the light brown sugar, unsalted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and bubbly. Next, fold in your chopped apples and toasted nuts. This luscious, sticky mixture will eventually bubble up during baking, creating sweet pockets of apple bliss throughout the cake.
Step 2: Mixing the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar until pale and slightly thickened. Add the oil and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be smooth but still thick enough to hold the apple-streusel topping once layered.
Step 3: Assembling and Baking
Pour half of the batter into your prepared 9×9 inch baking pan and smooth the surface. Spoon half of the apple-streusel topping evenly over the batter. Add the remaining cake batter on top, spreading gently. Finally, dollop the rest of the apple topping on top and gently swirl it with a knife for that beautiful, rustic marbled look. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before slicing to enjoy that perfect texture and flavor meld.
How to Serve Apple Coffee Cake (Classic Apple Dapple Cake) Recipe
Garnishes
When serving your Apple Coffee Cake (Classic Apple Dapple Cake) Recipe, consider a simple dusting of powdered sugar for a pretty finish. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate this treat to something extraordinary, perfect for impressing guests or spoiling yourself.
Side Dishes
This coffee cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or spiced chai tea for a comforting afternoon snack. If you want to turn it into a more substantial dessert, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a creamy mascarpone spread for contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the cake into squares and serve on rustic wooden boards for a cozy, farmhouse vibe. For brunch parties, cut into bite-sized pieces and skewer with decorative picks, making them easy to grab and enjoy with a cup of coffee. You could also layer pieces with yogurt and fresh fruit for a layered parfait twist that highlights the apple flavors in a new way.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Apple Coffee Cake (Classic Apple Dapple Cake) Recipe keeps beautifully covered at room temperature for up to two days. Wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container prevents it from drying out while preserving the moist texture and vibrant flavors.
Freezing
If you want to save this cake for later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture, then warm slightly before serving to bring back that freshly baked feel.
Reheating
To revive the fresh-baked warmth, reheat slices gently in a microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a low oven (about 300°F/150°C) for 10 minutes. This brings back the softness and melts the aromatic topping just enough to remind you why this Apple Coffee Cake (Classic Apple Dapple Cake) Recipe is so adored.
FAQs
Can I substitute the walnuts or pecans with another nut?
Absolutely! You can use almonds, hazelnuts, or even skip nuts if you prefer a nut-free version. Just toast them first for maximum flavor, and chop roughly to maintain that wonderful crunch in the cake.
Is it okay to use sweet apples instead of Granny Smith?
While Granny Smith apples bring a lovely tartness that balances the sweetness, you can experiment with Fuji or Honeycrisp apples for a milder apple flavor. Just keep in mind the cake may taste sweeter and have slightly less tang.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum for the best results. Keep the rest of the recipe the same, and you’ll still get a moist, delicious cake.
Why is the streusel topping cooked before adding to the cake?
Cooking the streusel topping first helps caramelize the sugar and melt the butter, creating that signature sticky, gooey apple-nut mixture that contrasts beautifully with the fluffy cake layers.
How do I ensure my cake stays moist?
Using oil instead of butter in the batter is key to a moist crumb, plus the juicy apple topping adds extra moisture during baking. Avoid overbaking and check the cake as it nears the end to keep it wonderfully tender.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Apple Coffee Cake (Classic Apple Dapple Cake) Recipe enough if you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug wrapped up in flavors. It’s the kind of cake you’ll find yourself making again and again, whether for simple breakfasts, festive gatherings, or a sweet treat whenever the mood strikes. So go ahead — bake it, share it, and enjoy every delicious crumb of this timeless classic.
Print
Apple Coffee Cake (Classic Apple Dapple Cake) Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Classic Apple Coffee Cake, also known as Apple Dapple Cake, combines tart Granny Smith apples and crunchy toasted nuts with a moist, cinnamon-spiced cake. This comforting dessert is perfect for breakfast or snack time, featuring layers of buttery crumb topping and soft cake infused with vanilla and warm spices.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup extra light olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (measured correctly)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/3 cups toasted and chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 lb Granny Smith apples (about 2 large apples, peeled and cut into 3 cups)
Topping Ingredients
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 6 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk (any kind)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare Apples and Nuts: Peel, core, and dice the Granny Smith apples into approximately 3 cups. Toast the walnuts or pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and lightly browned, then chop them coarsely. Set both aside.
- Mix the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, beat the 3 eggs until smooth. Add the oil, granulated sugar, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, mixing well until combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the 3 cups all-purpose flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined. Fold in the chopped toasted nuts and diced apples evenly into the batter.
- Prepare and Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch square or round baking pan. Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the top evenly. In a small saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons unsalted butter with 1 cup light brown sugar, 1/4 cup milk, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt over medium heat, stirring until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. Pour this topping evenly over the batter in the pan. Bake the cake for approximately 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes. This rest time helps the topping set perfectly. Slice into 9 or more pieces and serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with coffee or tea.
Notes
- Measure flour properly by spooning it into the cup and leveling it off for best results.
- You can use either walnuts or pecans according to your preference.
- Room temperature eggs help achieve a smoother batter.
- To toast nuts, watch carefully to prevent burning and ensure maximum flavor.
- Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives.
