Name: Apple Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Pecan Topping Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup butter, softened; 1 cup sugar; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup sour cream; 1 1/2 cups chopped peeled tart apples; 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 1/2 cup chopped pecans; 2 tablespoons butter, softened; 1 teaspoon apple pie spice

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 76 reviews

If you have a soft spot for cozy mornings and the irresistible aroma of baked apples mingling with warm spices, this Apple Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Pecan Topping Recipe is going to become your new favorite. The tender crumb from the sour cream, the burst of tart apples tucked inside, and that crunchy, buttery pecan topping make each bite an absolute delight that’s perfect with a cup of coffee or tea. Sharing this recipe feels like passing along a comforting hug in dessert form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a light blue square baking pan filled with thick, creamy white batter that is being spread smoothly with a white spatula held by a right woman's hand, while the left woman's hand holds the pan steady. The texture of the batter looks soft and fluffy with visible swirls and folds on the surface. The pan sits on a white marbled textured surface that contrasts with the batter and pan colors. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is a breeze with this recipe, and each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the richness of butter and sour cream to the tart snap of fresh apples and the crunchy pecans that crown it all, these simple pantry staples work beautifully together.

1/2 cup butter, softened: The base for your cake’s rich, moist texture and buttery flavor.
1 cup sugar: Sweetens the batter just right without overpowering the natural apple tang.
2 large eggs, room temperature: Provide structure and help bind everything with a tender crumb.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warm sweetness that enhances all the other flavors.
2 cups all-purpose flour: Gives the cake its body and soft, cakey crumb.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Leavens the cake so it’s light, not dense.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and deepens flavor complexity.
1 cup sour cream: Keeps the cake moist, tender, and adds a slight tang that pairs perfectly with the apples.
1 1/2 cups chopped peeled tart apples: The star ingredient—fresh apples bring juicy texture and bright flavor.

Topping:

1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Sweetens and caramelizes for that golden topping.
1/2 cup chopped pecans: Offers a satisfying crunch and nutty richness.
2 tablespoons butter, softened: Helps bind the topping ingredients and adds indulgence.
1 teaspoon apple pie spice: Brings in cozy notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove.

How to Make Apple Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Pecan Topping Recipe

Step 1: Make the Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Cream together the softened butter and sugar using a hand or stand mixer. Here’s a little secret: whipping the butter and sugar on high speed for about five to seven minutes really makes a difference, creating a light and tender texture that’s worth the patience. After that, beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and glossy.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that your leavening and seasoning are evenly distributed, which means every bite will have that perfect rise and balanced flavor.

Step 3: Alternate Adding Flour and Sour Cream

Begin folding some of the flour mixture into the creamed butter mixture, then add part of the sour cream, continuing to alternate and ending with the flour. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of your bowl a couple of times to make sure everything comes together evenly. This method guarantees a batter that’s not too dense but beautifully moist and tender.

Step 4: Fold in the Apples

Gently fold the chopped tart apples into the batter with a rubber spatula until they are scattered throughout the mixture. These juicy bits will give your coffee cake delightful pockets of fresh apple flavor in every slice.

Step 5: Pour Batter into Pan

Grease a 9-inch square baking pan and scrape the batter in. Spread it evenly right to the edges for consistent baking and a beautiful shape to your finished cake.

Step 6: Prepare the Pecan Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, chopped pecans, softened butter, and apple pie spice. Once combined, sprinkle this delectable topping evenly over the batter. This will create the irresistible crunchy, sweet layer we all love on a coffee cake.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Bake your amazing Apple Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Pecan Topping Recipe for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the cake cool for 20 to 30 minutes at room temperature before serving. This resting time lets the flavors develop and the cake maintain its tender, moist crumb.

How to Serve Apple Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Pecan Topping Recipe

A woman's hand sprinkles crumbled brown topping over a creamy light beige batter in a square white dish. The batter fills the dish evenly with a smooth and thick texture. The crumbles are rough and uneven, scattered mostly in the middle and spreading outward. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with soft natural light highlighting the textures. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar makes the cake even more inviting, while a drizzle of honey or a smear of softened butter on each slice takes indulgence up a notch. Fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of toasted pecans on the side can add extra texture and beauty too.

Side Dishes

This coffee cake pairs fabulously with a warm beverage like spiced chai tea or cinnamon-infused coffee. A simple dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms it into a delightful dessert. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or creamy yogurt for balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Cut the cake into small squares and serve on vintage china or rustic wooden boards. Add edible flowers or cinnamon sticks as decoration. If you’re feeling playful, serve warm slices topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or a thin drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra special touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Apple Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Pecan Topping Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Beyond that, keeping it in the fridge helps preserve freshness for up to a week, though the pecan topping is best enjoyed within the first few days.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead treat. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months, letting you enjoy a slice of homemade comfort anytime.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked feel, gently reheat frozen or refrigerated slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or in a preheated 325°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes. This revives the moistness and caramelizes the pecan topping just right.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this coffee cake?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith are recommended for their balanced flavor, you can use other varieties such as Honeycrisp or Braeburn. Just be mindful that sweeter apples may change the overall sweetness of the cake.

Is sour cream necessary in this recipe?

Sour cream is key to achieving this cake’s tender, moist crumb and subtle tang. If you don’t have sour cream on hand, Greek yogurt can be a suitable substitute, though the texture and flavor may shift slightly.

Can I make this coffee cake gluten-free?

Yes, by using a well-balanced gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking, you can enjoy a gluten-free version. Just make sure your blend includes xanthan gum or a similar binder to help with structure.

How do I prevent the pecan topping from burning?

Keep an eye on the cake during the last 10 minutes of baking. If you notice the topping starting to get too dark, tent the cake with aluminum foil to protect it while the cake finishes baking.

Can this cake be made a day ahead?

Definitely! The flavors actually deepen when the cake rests, making it perfect to bake the day before your gathering. Just store it covered at room temperature or in the fridge and warm gently before serving.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so wonderfully comforting about a slice of warm coffee cake, especially when it’s loaded with tart apples, rich sour cream, and topped with a crunchy pecan crust. This Apple Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Pecan Topping Recipe is a little labor of love that yields big rewards, and I promise it will become a go-to for breakfast, brunch, or anytime you need a slice of cozy happiness. Give it a try and watch it become an instant classic on your kitchen table.