Why You’ll Love Easy Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake Recipe
I love how quick this recipe is to put together with just a few simple ingredients. I get all the warm apple-cinnamon flavor I want without needing to peel or slice fresh apples. The cake turns out soft, moist, and rich, while the apple pie filling adds sweet pockets of fruit in every bite. I also like that this recipe works well for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or even a holiday table when I want something easy but still comforting.
Ingredients
(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
For the cake: 1 pack of white cake mix 15.25 oz 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1 cup of sour cream 3 eggs 1/4 cup water 1 can apple pie filling 21 oz
For the glaze: 1 cup confectioners’ sugar 1 – 1 1/2 Tbsp whole milk
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 350º F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan.
I add the white cake mix, cinnamon, sour cream, eggs, and water to a medium-sized bowl, then mix everything with a mixer until the batter is smooth and well combined.
I pour the batter into the prepared pan and spoon the apple pie filling over the top.
I bake the cake for 35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
I let the cake cool for 10 minutes while I prepare the glaze.
I mix the confectioners’ sugar and milk in a small bowl until smooth. If the glaze feels too thick, I add a little more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches a consistency that drizzles easily.
I drizzle the glaze over the cake and let it cool completely before slicing and serving.
Servings and Timing
I get 12 servings from this recipe, which makes it great for sharing with family or bringing to a gathering.
I like to change this cake in simple ways depending on what I have in the kitchen. I sometimes add chopped pecans or walnuts on top for a little crunch. I also like mixing a pinch of nutmeg into the batter when I want a warmer spice flavor. For a richer finish, I sometimes add a little vanilla extract to the glaze. When I want more texture, I spread the apple pie filling a little more evenly across the top so every slice gets extra fruit. I also think a crumb topping would be delicious when I want this to feel even more like a bakery-style coffee cake.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Because of the sour cream and apple filling, I prefer keeping it chilled to help it stay fresh. When I want to serve it again, I let a slice sit at room temperature for a few minutes or warm it gently in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. I like reheating just enough to soften the cake without melting the glaze too much.
FAQs
Can I use yellow cake mix instead of white cake mix?
I can easily swap in yellow cake mix if that is what I have on hand. The flavor will be a little richer, but the cake should still turn out soft and delicious.
Can I use homemade apple pie filling?
I can absolutely use homemade apple pie filling in this recipe. I just make sure it has a similar thickness so the cake does not become too wet.
Do I need to stir the apple pie filling into the batter?
I prefer spooning the filling over the batter instead of mixing it in completely. That helps me keep distinct pockets of apple throughout the cake.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
I like making this cake a day ahead because the flavors settle nicely. I keep it covered in the refrigerator and glaze it before serving or after it cools.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
I check the center with a toothpick. If it comes out clean or with just a few soft crumbs, I know the cake is ready.
Can I freeze this coffee cake?
I can freeze the cake, though I prefer freezing it without the glaze for the best texture. I wrap it tightly and thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
What kind of pan works best for this recipe?
I use a 9×13-inch baking pan because it gives the cake the right thickness and helps it bake evenly.
Is this coffee cake very sweet?
I find this cake fairly sweet because of the cake mix, apple pie filling, and glaze. I think it works best as a sweet breakfast treat or easy dessert.
Can I add extra spices?
I like adding extra cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a little apple pie spice when I want a stronger fall flavor. I add small amounts so the cake stays balanced.
Can I serve this cake warm?
I enjoy serving it slightly warm once it has had a little time to set. The apple filling tastes especially comforting that way, and the glaze adds a nice finish.
Conclusion
I love how this easy apple pie filling coffee cake brings together simple ingredients and cozy flavor in such an effortless way. It is soft, sweet, packed with apple goodness, and finished with a smooth glaze that makes every bite feel comforting. I think this is the kind of recipe that fits almost any occasion, whether I am serving it for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a casual family treat.
