When the temperature dips and leaves start to tumble from the trees, it’s the perfect excuse to whip up something cozy and comforting in the kitchen. This apple coffee cake with apple cider glaze is a celebration of fall flavors rolled into one tender, moist slice. You’ll love how the warm spices—aromatic cinnamon and nutmeg—meld seamlessly with juicy chunks of fresh apples, creating a texture that’s both soft and slightly crisp at the edges. With just 20 minutes of prep time and about 40 minutes in the oven, this beginner-friendly dessert recipe delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. And did I mention the glaze? Reducing apple cider down to a concentrated, tangy sweet syrup before whisking in powdered sugar brings a brilliant sheen and extra layer of fall magic to every bite.
I still remember the first time I drizzled that golden apple cider glaze over my cake—my kitchen instantly looked like it belonged in a food magazine, and the rich aroma had my family gathering around the oven before the timer even rang. Each slice feels like a warm hug in dessert form, perfect alongside a steaming cup of coffee or a cozy mug of spiced tea. Whether you’re hosting a laid-back brunch, surprising a friend with a homemade treat, or simply craving something sweet to brighten your afternoon, this cake checks all the boxes. It’s one of those easy coffee cakes that feels special without requiring you to be a baking pro—plus, at around 300 calories per serving (based on 12 generous portions), it’s a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN APPLE COFFEE CAKE WITH APPLE CIDER GLAZE
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, from the basic pantry staples to the fresh apples and cider that bring everything to life.
- All-purpose flour
Acts as the structure builder for the cake, providing the right balance of tenderness and stability so each slice holds together perfectly.
- Baking powder
A gentle leavening agent that helps the cake rise evenly and gives it a light, airy crumb.
- Baking soda
Enhances the rise and helps balance the acidity in the sour cream, ensuring a supple texture.
- Salt
Amplifies all the sweet and spicy flavors, rounding out the taste of every ingredient.
- Ground cinnamon
Infuses both the cake batter and the apple cider glaze with warm, comforting spice notes that scream “fall” in every bite.
- Ground nutmeg
Lends a subtle earthy sweetness that complements the cinnamon and deepens the overall flavor profile.
- Unsalted butter
Provides richness and moisture, helping create that tender, melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
- Granulated sugar
Sweetens the cake while also helping to create a light and fluffy texture when creamed with butter.
- Large eggs
Bind ingredients together and add structure, giving the cake its lift and silky crumb.
- Vanilla extract
Adds a depth of flavor that highlights the spices and brightens the overall taste.
- Sour cream
Contributes tanginess and extra moisture, keeping the cake incredibly soft and yielding.
- Peeled and diced apples
Bring fresh, juicy bursts of flavor and a bit of texture contrast throughout the cake.
- Apple cider
Reduces down to a concentrated syrup for the glaze, delivering an authentic apple taste with a natural tang.
- Powdered sugar
Sweetens and thickens the glaze, giving it a smooth, glossy finish that sets beautifully.
HOW TO MAKE APPLE COFFEE CAKE WITH APPLE CIDER GLAZE
Let’s roll up our sleeves and transform these pantry staples and fresh ingredients into a show-stopping coffee cake. You’ll follow simple baking steps, from prepping your pan to whisking up a silky apple cider glaze.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper, ensuring easy removal and a clean release once the cake is baked to golden perfection.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This ensures even distribution of leavening and spices for a uniform crumb and flavor. Set the dry mix aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy—about 3 to 4 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed. This step aerates the batter, contributing to the cake’s tender texture.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully. Stir in the vanilla extract, scraping down the bowl so all those buttery, sugary bits are mixed in.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter-egg mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Overmixing can toughen the cake, so stop as soon as you see no streaks of flour.
6. Gently fold in the peeled and diced apples using a rubber spatula, ensuring they’re evenly distributed but not smashing them—small chunks give delightful texture.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it out in an even layer. Smooth the top so it bakes uniformly.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be lightly golden and the center set.
9. While the cake bakes, prepare the apple cider glaze. In a small saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to a simmer and allow it to reduce for about 10 minutes, or until you have approximately ¼ cup of concentrated cider.
10. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cider cool slightly. Whisk in the powdered sugar and ground cinnamon until the glaze is completely smooth and silky.
11. Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the cake settle and makes it easier to drizzle.
12. Drizzle the warm apple cider glaze over the cake while it’s still warm, letting it cascade down the sides. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR APPLE COFFEE CAKE WITH APPLE CIDER GLAZE
Serving this apple coffee cake is as much fun as baking it. Whether you’re indulging in a quiet morning treat or sharing slices with friends, these ideas will help you present each piece with flair and extra flavor pop.
- Serve each warm slice with a dollop of homemade whipped cream and a light dusting of cinnamon sugar for an elegant brunch presentation.
- Pair a generous wedge with a steaming mug of freshly brewed coffee or chai latte, letting the spices in your drink echo those in the cake.
- Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the glaze for an added crunch and nutty depth that complements the tender apples.
- Top individual servings with a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream or a swirl of Greek yogurt to balance the sweetness and offer a cool contrast.
HOW TO STORE APPLE COFFEE CAKE WITH APPLE CIDER GLAZE
Storing your coffee cake properly ensures every slice stays moist, flavorful, and fresh—whether you’re munching on it the next day or planning ahead for a bigger gathering.
- Room Temperature Storage: Once the cake has fully cooled and the glaze has set, cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. Keep at room temperature for up to two days to maintain a soft crumb.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage (up to three days), place the cake or individual portions in an airtight container and refrigerate. Let the cake come to room temperature or pop it in a warm oven for a few minutes before serving to revive that just-baked feel.
- Freezing Whole Cake: Wrap the cooled, unglazed cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in a layer of aluminum foil, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then add the cider glaze fresh before serving.
- Freezing Individual Slices: Flash-freeze single slices on a baking sheet, then wrap each piece in plastic and store in a freezer bag for quick grab-and-go treats. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, and finish with warm glaze for a like-new experience.
CONCLUSION
From the first tender bite to the lingering sweetness of the cider glaze, this apple coffee cake is a celebration of simple ingredients and homey autumn flavors. We’ve walked through every stage—from gathering pantry staples and fresh apples to whisking up that lusciously glossy glaze—and you can see just how approachable this recipe is, even for beginner bakers. With a total time commitment of under an hour, plus a short rest while the cake cools, you’ll have a centerpiece-worthy dessert that’s perfect for brunches, afternoon pick-me-ups, or even cozy evenings in. Feel free to print this article and keep it in your recipe binder, or bookmark and save it for those moments when you crave an easy coffee cake studded with fall’s finest flavors. And if you’re curious about any finer points or extra tips, you can scroll down to find a handy FAQ section.
I’d love to hear how your cake turns out! Did you add a handful of walnuts for crunch, or swap in Granny Smith apples for a tart twist? Drop a comment, share your questions, or let me know if you need troubleshooting help—whether it’s nailing the crumb texture or perfecting that glossy glaze drizzle. Your feedback and stories make this recipe even more special, so don’t hesitate to reach out and keep the baking conversation going!
Apple Coffee Cake With Apple Cider Glaze
Description
This moist apple coffee cake, bursting with warm spices and tender apple pieces, is drizzled with a rich apple cider glaze that elevates each bite. Perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon treat!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
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In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
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Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream, and mix until just combined.
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Gently fold in the diced apples. Ensure the apples are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
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Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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While the cake is baking, prepare the apple cider glaze. In a small saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and allow it to reduce for about 10 minutes or until you have approximately ¼ cup of concentrated apple cider.
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Remove the cider from the heat and let it cool slightly. Whisk in the powdered sugar and ground cinnamon until smooth.
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Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
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Drizzle the warm cider glaze over the cake while it's still warm. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving.
Note
- This cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
- You can use any variety of apple, but Granny Smith apples add a nice contrast of tartness.
- For added texture, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts or raisins to the batter.
- This cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
