This Moist Apple Crumble Coffee Cake is a delightful blend of warm spices, tender cake, and a buttery crumb topping. The rich, creamy layer in the middle adds an irresistible touch that perfectly balances the sweet apple filling. Each bite is a comforting taste of fall, making it ideal for cozy mornings or relaxed afternoons with a hot cup of coffee.

Whether you’re hosting brunch, craving a sweet dessert, or just want a treat to brighten your day, this coffee cake will deliver. Its rich flavor, crumbly topping, and smooth filling make it an unforgettable indulgence for any occasion.
Ingredients for this Moist Apple Crumble Coffee Cake
Crumble Topping
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cake Base
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Apple Filling
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp butter
Creamy Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract

Step 1: Prepare the Crumble Topping
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the apples soften and become caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Mix until just combined.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Layer
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan. Spread half of the cake batter evenly in the pan. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the batter, followed by the caramelized apple filling. Spread the remaining cake batter on top. Finish by sprinkling the crumble topping evenly across the surface.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place the assembled cake in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan before slicing and serving.
Storage Instructions
To keep your Moist Apple Crumble Coffee Cake fresh and delicious:
- Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s well-covered to retain moisture.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the microwave before serving.
Estimated Nutrition
Per Serving (based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Sugar: 28g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 180mg
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, you can use any firm apple variety like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the best flavor and texture.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully.
3. What can I serve with this coffee cake?
A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce pairs wonderfully with each slice.
4. Can I skip the cream cheese layer?
Yes, if you prefer a simpler coffee cake, you can leave out the cream cheese layer without affecting the bake time.
5. How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center — if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.
6. Can I add nuts to the crumble topping?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch to the crumble.
7. Is this cake best served warm or cold?
This cake is delicious both ways! Warm slices are extra cozy, while chilled slices offer a firmer texture.
8. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour for great results.

Moist Apple Crumble Coffee Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
This Moist Apple Crumble Coffee Cake is the ultimate comfort dessert — perfect for breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or even a decadent dessert. It features a soft and tender cake base, a rich cream cheese layer, and a sweet apple filling all topped with a buttery, cinnamon-spiced crumble. Each bite delivers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re searching for an easy dessert idea, a special treat for brunch, or a perfect pairing with your morning coffee, this coffee cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients
Crumble Topping
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cake Base
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup sour cream
Apple Filling
2 medium apples, peeled and diced
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp butter
Creamy Layer
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Crumble Topping: In a bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in melted butter until crumbly. Set aside.
- Make the Apple Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Set aside.
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well. Stir in vanilla. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet, alternating with sour cream.
- Prepare the Creamy Layer: Beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
- Assemble the Cake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan. Spread half the cake batter in the pan, followed by the cream cheese mixture, apple filling, and remaining cake batter. Sprinkle crumble topping evenly on top.
- Bake the Cake: Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool before slicing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert