This Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake is the ultimate go-to dessert when you’re racing against the clock but still want to deliver a big impact. It’s simple, fast, and irresistibly delicious—perfect for family gatherings, spontaneous brunches, or a treat-yourself moment after a long day. Using a boxed white cake mix as the base, it’s infused with cinnamon warmth, made luscious with sour cream, and bursting with gooey apple pie filling. The result? A coffee cake with a tender crumb and pockets of caramelized apple that taste like home. A drizzle of glaze or a scoop of ice cream makes it sing.
It’s nostalgic, comforting, and guaranteed to impress—without demanding hours in the kitchen. And the aroma? It turns any house into a haven.
🧺 INGREDIENTS:
For the Cake:
- 1 package white cake mix (for 2 layers)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup sour cream (room temperature)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 (21 oz) can apple pie filling
Optional Topping Ideas:
- Powdered sugar glaze (1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tbsp milk + 1/2 tsp vanilla)
- Crushed walnuts or pecans
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for serving
🧑🍳 INSTRUCTIONS:
- Prep the Oven & Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch glass or metal baking dish and set aside. - Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the white cake mix and cinnamon. This instantly elevates the flavor and adds a warm autumnal twist. - Add Wet Ingredients
Crack in the eggs, stir in the sour cream and water. Mix until smooth and lump-free—a handheld electric mixer works wonders here. You’re aiming for a thick, creamy batter. - Layer In the Apple Pie Filling
Gently fold in half of the apple pie filling. This allows apples to integrate into the batter while still leaving juicy apple bits whole. Pour batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. - Add the Rest of the Filling
Spoon the remaining apple pie filling in dollops across the top of the batter. Use a spatula or knife to gently swirl the filling into the surface, creating a marbled pattern of apple and cake. - Bake to Perfection
Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Don’t overbake—you want it moist! - Cool & Drizzle (Optional)
Let the cake cool slightly before drizzling with powdered sugar glaze or adding crushed nuts. This finishing touch adds texture and sweetness to complement the tender cake. - Serve & Enjoy
Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. Pair with coffee, chai, or your favorite herbal tea (turmeric ginger, perhaps?). It’s a hit every time.
🌟 Bonus Hassan Tip:
You can give this a wellness twist by subbing in spelt or almond flour cake mix, adding turmeric powder for anti-inflammatory benefits, or folding in chopped dates for natural sweetness.
Let me know if you want variations like a ginger-cardamom version or one with aloe-infused glaze! 🧡