Indulge in the rich, comforting embrace of our Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake. This truly exceptional dessert boasts a lush, vanilla-infused, and supremely buttery crumb, with generous swirls of cinnamon-sugar baked right into its heart and sprinkled abundantly on top. Each delightful slice reveals tender bits of sweet apple, complemented by the delightful crunch of toasted pecans and walnuts. For an extra touch of decadence that elevates it to pure bliss, a luscious buttery brown sugar glaze awaits your choosing. And for those mindful of their sugar intake, we are thrilled to offer equally delicious sugar-free recipe options, ensuring everyone can savor this exquisite treat!
Craving more apple delights? Explore these other beloved recipes that celebrate the humble apple: Apple Cinnamon Bread, Caramel Glazed Apple Crumble Coffee Cake, and our cozy Apple Butter Spice Cake. It seems we can never get enough of these wholesome, flavorful creations!

Why This Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake is an Absolute Favorite
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any time you need a little comfort and joy.
- Unmatched Comfort and Flavor: If you’re searching for a profoundly delicious and comforting dessert, especially as the days grow cooler, your quest ends here. This coffee cake embodies the very essence of cozy, with its harmonious blend of sweet apples and warm cinnamon. The robust flavors make it an ideal companion for a chilly morning or a relaxing evening.
- Effortlessly Delicious: This yummy and surprisingly easy Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake is destined to become the apple of your eye this season. Its straightforward preparation means you don’t need to be a seasoned baker to achieve spectacular results, making it accessible for everyone.
- A Recipe for Every Baker: Whether you’re a novice venturing into the world of baking or a seasoned whiz looking for a reliable crowd-pleaser, this Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake offers a gratifying experience. The steps are simple, the ingredients are common, and the outcome is consistently impressive, ensuring success with every bake.
- Simple Ingredients, Luxurious Results: Crafted with just a few readily available ingredients, this cake is easy to whip up, yet it presents as a truly luxurious addition to any dessert table. It proves that extraordinary flavor doesn’t always require complicated components or techniques.
- Versatile for Any Time of Day: Imagine starting your day with a slice, enjoying it as a delightful mid-afternoon snack, or serving it as an elegant dessert after dinner. This cake is wonderfully versatile, fitting seamlessly into any part of your day. Pair it with a steaming cup of coffee, and you have a moment of pure bliss. Oh, yes!
- Enhanced When Warm: For an extra layer of enjoyment, pop a slice into the microwave for about 20 seconds. The gentle warmth intensifies the aromatic spices, softens the buttery cake, and makes the apples even more tender, creating an even more inviting experience.
- Health-Conscious Baking Made Easy: Embrace the delicious flavors of fall with the satisfaction of knowing you can enjoy a sugar-free apple coffee cake whenever you wish! We believe that making healthier choices shouldn’t mean sacrificing the pleasure of dessert, and this recipe delivers on that promise.
- A Sweet Treat for Sharing: Apple cinnamon coffee cake is a truly delightful treat suitable for any occasion, big or small. Its easy preparation allows you to create something sweet and enjoyable to share effortlessly with friends and family, making every gathering a little more special.

Lately, my kitchen has been a hub of dessert experiments, driven by a personal quest to find healthier ways to satisfy my sweet tooth. This naturally led me down the path of sugar-free baking. As a devoted dessert lover, finding alternatives that don’t compromise on taste is paramount!
The challenge, as many of you might know, is avoiding sugar substitutes that leave an odd aftertaste or simply don’t quite mimic the taste and texture of real sugar. I refuse to compromise on flavor, especially when I’m trying to manage sugar intake without giving up my cherished dessert cravings. However, through trial and error, I’ve discovered a fantastic healthy sugar option that truly works wonders in this recipe, as you’ll soon see!
Continue reading to discover the complete, detailed recipe, along with invaluable healthy tips and tricks. These insights will ensure your Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake is nothing short of perfect, crafted exactly to your preference!

Key Ingredients for Your Perfect Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake
Crafting this delightful coffee cake begins with gathering the right ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that rich, moist crumb, the sweet apple-cinnamon swirl, and the optional decadent glaze. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting masterpiece:
For the Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake Batter
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Softened butter
- Granulated sugar or a healthy sugar substitute of your choice (approximately ⅔ cup; I personally used Lakanto Monk Fruit Sweetener for a sugar-free option)
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
For the Apple, Nut & Cinnamon-Sugar Filling
- Chopped walnuts and pecans (or any combination of your favorite nuts)
- Ground cinnamon
- Sugar or healthy sugar substitute of choice (I used a combination of Lakanto’s healthy brown sugar and classic sweetener for this)
- 2 medium apples, peeled and thinly chopped
For the Simple Brown Sugar Glaze (Optional, but highly recommended!)
- Brown sugar or a healthy brown sugar substitute (I recommend Lakanto’s healthy brown sugar for a sugar-free option)
- Butter
- Confectioners’ sugar or a healthy confectioners’ sugar substitute (I used Swerve Confectioners’ Sugar for sugar-free)

Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake
Making this incredible coffee cake is a straightforward process that yields truly rewarding results. Follow these simple steps to bring this comforting dessert to life in your own kitchen.
Preparing the Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake Batter
- Begin by combining the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium-sized bowl. Whisk them together thoroughly, then set aside.
- In a separate, larger bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar (or your chosen sugar substitute) until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step incorporates air, contributing to the cake’s tender texture. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the reserved flour mixture to the creamed ingredients, alternating with the sour cream or Greek yogurt. Mix well after each addition until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter; overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
Assembling the Apple, Nut & Cinnamon-Sugar Filling
- In a small bowl, prepare your flavorful filling by combining the chopped nuts, ground cinnamon, and sugar (or sugar substitute).
- Grease a 10-inch tube pan (preferably one with a removable bottom) thoroughly. Spread half of the prepared cake batter evenly into the bottom of the pan. Layer this with the thinly chopped apple pieces, distributing them across the batter. Sprinkle half of the nut and cinnamon-sugar mixture over the apples.
- Carefully spoon the remaining cake batter over the apple and nut layer, spreading it gently to cover. Finally, sprinkle the remaining nut mixture on top to form a delicious streusel-like topping.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. This allows it to set and makes it easier to remove.
- Carefully run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the cake. If using a tube pan with a removable bottom, lift the cake along with the bottom. Allow it to cool completely before attempting to remove it from the pan bottom. This ensures the cake holds its shape perfectly for serving.
Creating the Simple Brown Sugar Glaze
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and brown sugar (or healthy sugar substitute). Microwave for approximately 30-45 seconds, or until melted and smooth. For a thicker glaze, whisk in 1-2 tablespoons of confectioners’ sugar (or a healthy confectioners’ sugar substitute like Swerve).
- Drizzle the warm glaze generously over the cooled coffee cake just before serving. If the glaze thickens too much while you’re working, simply pop it back into the microwave for 15-20 seconds to achieve a perfect drizzle consistency. Serve your magnificent Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake warm or at room temperature, and prepare for rave reviews!

Embrace Healthier Indulgence: How to Make a Sugar-Free Apple Coffee Cake
For those looking to enjoy this delightful coffee cake while managing sugar intake, creating a sugar-free version is incredibly simple and equally delicious. The key lies in choosing a high-quality, healthy sweetener that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.
To make this a recipe that caters to your dietary needs, simply substitute traditional sugar with your preferred healthy sweetener. In my personal baking adventures, I’ve found tremendous success using Lakanto Monk Fruit Natural Sweetener Variety Pack, specifically their Classic & Golden Sweetener for the cake and filling, and their Lakanto Powdered Monk Fruit Sweetener for the glaze.
I genuinely adore this healthy monk fruit sweetener! It remarkably tastes just like real sugar, yet it boasts zero net carbs, zero calories, and is a zero glycemic sweetener. This makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy sweet treats without the downsides of traditional sugar.
Furthermore, Lakanto products are incredibly versatile and align with various dietary preferences. They are keto-friendly, suitable for diabetics, candida diets, paleo, vegan, low carb, low sugar, NON-GMO, and entirely natural.
Their Golden Lakanto perfectly mimics brown sugar, while the Classic White serves as an excellent white sugar substitute. The different colors and flavors are naturally derived from various parts of the monk fruit, creating authentic taste profiles. All I know is that these sweeteners perform exactly as sugar should in this cake and in the glaze, allowing me to enjoy a piece or two whenever I want to cut back on sugar without sacrificing the sweet satisfaction!
Eager for more of my sugar-free and low-carb recipe adventures? Be sure to check out Keto Fluffy Chocolate Mousse – 3 Ingredients of Heaven, these delightful Cinnamon Apple Muffins – GF, Keto | Low-Carb, Sugar-Free, these rich Low Carb Cocao Bliss Cake Muffins, and this incredibly Easy Keto Chocolate Cake!
Discover the world of healthy sweeteners by visiting Lakanto. Explore their amazing range of products and find your new favorite way to bake sugar-free.
Don’t forget to USE MY EXCLUSIVE LAKANTO DISCOUNT CODE: thebakingchocolatess15 at checkout to receive 15% off your order! I love sharing these fantastic finds, and who doesn’t appreciate a great discount? I’d absolutely love to hear your feedback if you decide to try their products!


Essential Baking Tips for a Flawless Coffee Cake
Achieving a perfectly moist and flavorful coffee cake is easier than you think with these expert tips:
- Testing for Doneness: To accurately determine if your coffee cake is fully baked, gently insert a clean toothpick or a thin paring knife into the very center of the cake. If the tester comes out completely clean, without any wet batter or moist crumbs clinging to it, your cake is done. If it emerges gummy or with sticky crumbs, the cake needs a bit more time in the oven.
- The Importance of Correct Flour Measurement: Adding an excessive amount of flour is a common pitfall that can result in a dry, crumbly, and dense cake. To avoid this, always make sure to measure your flour correctly. The best method is to spoon the flour into your measuring cup and then level it off with a straight edge, rather than scooping directly from the bag.
- Boost Your Protein with Greek Yogurt: If you’re looking to add a nutritional boost to your coffee cake, consider using plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Greek yogurt not only provides a wonderful tang and moisture similar to sour cream but also offers a significant source of healthy protein.
- Ensuring Evenly Cooked Apples: For this particular coffee cake, I highly recommend slicing your apples quite thin. This ensures that they cook through completely and become tender within the baking time, distributing their flavor throughout the cake. If you prefer larger, chunkier apple pieces, you might want to gently pre-cook them slightly on the stovetop before incorporating them into the batter to guarantee they soften sufficiently.
- Traditional Sugar Option: While we highlight a fantastic sugar-free alternative, please feel free to use regular granulated sugar and brown sugar if that’s your preference. This Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake is incredibly adaptable and delicious either way, ensuring everyone will enjoy it anytime of the day.


By thoughtfully combining simple, wholesome ingredients, this coffee cake offers a delightful and impressive way to create lasting memories. With its unique and comforting blend of flavors, this cozy dessert is guaranteed to please any palate, making it a staple in your recipe collection.
So, the next time you’re seeking a profoundly flavorful, utterly delicious, and remarkably easy-to-make treat, look no further than our Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake. Whether you opt for the classic version or a wonderful sugar-free alternative, it’s guaranteed to be delicious! The irresistible combination of apples and cinnamon is waiting to fill your home with its inviting aroma. For even more apple-inspired culinary adventures, be sure to check out our 45 Must-Try Best Apple Dessert Recipes!
Craving More Apple Delights?
If you’ve enjoyed this Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake, you’re in for a treat with these other fantastic apple-infused recipes:
- Old-Fashioned Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake
- ‘Awesome’ Cinnamon Applesauce Cake
- 4 Amazing Apple Coffee Cakes
- Heavenly Baked Apple Dumplings
- Apple Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake
- Salted Caramel Chip Apple Blondies
- Cinnamon Apple Muffins – GF, Low-Carb, Sugar-Free
Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake
Kim Lange
Pin Recipe
30 minutes
45 minutes
Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
American
12
265
kcal
Ingredients
Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake
-
2
cups
all-purpose flour
-
1 ½
teaspoons
baking powder
-
½
teaspoon
baking soda
-
½
teaspoon
salt
-
1
cup
butter
softened -
1 ⅓
cup
sugar or healthy sugar substitute of choice about ⅔ cup – I used Lankato’s) -
3
large eggs
-
1
tablespoon
vanilla extract
-
1
cup
sour cream or plain
Greek yogurt
Apple Nut Sugar Mixture
-
½
cup
chopped walnuts & pecans, combined
or whatever nuts you want -
2
teaspoons
ground cinnamon
-
½
cup
sugar
I used Lakanto’s healthy 1/4 cup brown sugar ¼ cup sugar-combo -
2
medium apples
peeled and chopped thin
Simple Brown Sugar Glaze
-
⅔
cup
packed light brown sugar or healthy sugar subsitute
I used Lakanto’s healthy brown sugar -
2
tablespoons
butter
-
Optional:
For glaze thickness – add 1 – 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar or healthy confectioners sugar substitute
I used Swerve Confectioner’s Sugar
Instructions
Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake
- Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a bowl, set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Blend in vanilla.; add flour mixture to creamed mixture alternately with sour cream or Greek yogurt, beating well after each addition.
Apple Nut Sugar Mixture
- In a small bowl, combine the nuts, cinnamon and sugar.
- Spread half of the batter in a well-greased 10-in. tube pan with a removable bottom. Top with apple chunks; sprinkle with half of the nut mixture. Top with remaining batter, then with remaining nut mixture.
- Bake at 375° for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in pan for 30 minutes. Carefully run a knife around edge of pan to loosen. Lift cake with removable bottom from pan. Cool completely. Before serving, carefully lift cake from pan bottom.
Simple Brown Sugar Glaze
- Combine butter and brown sugar in a microwavable bowl until melted, about 30 -45 seconds and add powdered sugar if you want a thicker glaze and whisk until smooth. Drizzle over coffee cake. (If glaze thickens, place in microwave for 15-20 seconds for drizzle consistency). Serve warm or at room temperature.
- I think it’s best warmed up in microwave to get the most out of flavors.
Notes
Nutrition
Calories:
265
kcal
Carbohydrates:
25
g
Protein:
2
g
Fat:
17
g
Saturated Fat:
11
g
Cholesterol:
46
mg
Sodium:
295
mg
Potassium:
77
mg
Fiber:
1
g
Sugar:
9
g
Vitamin A:
531
IU
Calcium:
33
mg
Iron:
1
mg
apple, cinnamon, coffee cake, sugar-free
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