The smell of baked apples and cinnamon makes your taste buds come alive. It’s like they’re begging for a slice of this amazing apple coffee cake. It’s perfect for a cozy brunch, entertaining friends, or a comforting morning treat. This dish is guaranteed to delight everyone.
It’s a mix of delicious flavors and textures that will make it your favorite. You’ll want to make it again and again.
With only 55 minutes of cooking time, you can make an 8-inch coffee cake for 8 people. The cake features a rich, golden crumb topped with cinnamon-infused apples.
This recipe combines the best of coffee cake with the freshness of apples.
Every bite is a delight. It will soon become a favorite recipe in your household.
Why This Apple Coffee Cake Will Become Your Favorite Breakfast Treat
Get ready to take your breakfast to the next level with this amazing apple cinnamon coffee cake. It’s moist and full of flavor, blending sweet and spice perfectly. Enjoy it any time of day.
The Perfect Balance of Flavors and Textures
The mix of tender apples, warm cinnamon, and a buttery brown sugar crumb topping is unbeatable. Every mouthful combines tender cake with a crisp streusel topping.
This dessert will have you craving seconds.
Versatility for Any Time of Day
This apple cinnamon coffee cake is perfect for any meal. Warm it up with coffee for a cozy breakfast or enjoy it as a dessert. It’s great for any event, from family brunches to dinner parties.
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 439 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 76g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Cholesterol | 56mg |
| Sodium | 171mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 54g |
This apple cinnamon coffee cake is a hit for breakfast and dessert. Its perfect flavors, versatility, and delicious texture will make it a favorite in your home.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Apple Coffee Cake
To make the ultimate apple coffee cake, you need the right ingredients. This treat requires all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, unsalted butter, and brown sugar. Let’s break down the essential details that make this recipe unique.
The recipe starts with 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour for the perfect crumb. Baking powder and baking soda work together to give the cake its perfect rise. A pinch of salt and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add flavor.
Unsalted butter is crucial for both the cake and the streusel topping. The recipe uses 10 tablespoons of butter. Granulated and brown sugar add sweetness.
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups diced apples (such as Braeburn or Granny Smith)
The recipe also needs room temperature eggs and buttermilk for a smooth batter. Diced apples, like Braeburn or Granny Smith, add a fruity touch.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 3/4 cups |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking soda | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter | 6 tablespoons |
| Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Eggs | 2 large, at room temperature |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Buttermilk | 1/2 cup, at room temperature |
| Apples | 1 1/2 cups, diced (Braeburn or Granny Smith) |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious apple coffee cake. This recipe will wow your guests while pleasing your palate.
The Ultimate Apple Coffee Cake Recipe
Get ready to indulge in the most delectable apple coffee cake recipe. It’s bound to be your next breakfast favorite.
This classic recipe offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it suitable for any time of day.
Key Measurements and Proportions
To create the ultimate apple coffee cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup of buttermilk
- 1 1/4 cups of chopped apples
Step-by-Step Mixing Instructions
To begin, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease a 9-inch baking pan. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and both sugars together until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract and stir. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the chopped apples.
Baking Temperature and Timing
Transfer the batter to the prepared pan, smoothing it out evenly. Bake for 45-55 minutes, checking with a toothpick to ensure it’s fully baked. Let the cake cool down fully before slicing and serving.
This apple coffee cake recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. It provides the perfect balance of moist, tender crumb and sweet apple flavor. Enjoy it with a hot cup of coffee for a delightful breakfast or treat any time of day.
The recipe for this apple coffee cake has a rating of 4.99 out of 5 from 128 votes. It was first shared in 2017, with updates in October 2020 and October 2023. It’s a must-try for any coffee and apple lover!
Creating the Irresistible Streusel Topping
Elevate your Apple Coffee Cake with a delicious streusel topping. This crunchy, sweet layer adds a unique texture and flavor. It’s a secret to making the perfect streusel with streusel topping, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter.
Begin by mixing 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt in a bowl. Use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut in 1 1/2 cups of cold, unsalted butter until it looks like coarse crumbs. Chill the streusel topping until you’re ready to put the cake together.
When it’s time to bake, spread the chilled streusel topping over the cake batter. Make sure it covers the whole surface. The buttery, cinnamon-sugar streusel and the moist, apple-filled cake will make a treat that’s hard to resist.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 1/2 cups |
| Brown sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Sea salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cold, unsalted butter | 1 1/2 cups |
For an extra special touch, try adding a cream cheese cinnamon glaze or some toasted pecans on top. You can customize your Apple Coffee Cake to your liking.
Choosing the Best Apples for Your Coffee Cake
Choosing the right apples is key to a perfect apple coffee cake. You want a mix of sweet and tart apples that stay firm when cooked.
Recommended Apple Varieties
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are the best for this recipe. Granny Smith apples add a tart taste that pairs well with the cake’s sweetness. Honeycrisps bring a crunchy texture and juiciness that enhances the cake.
Use 1 large apple or 1 1/4 cups of diced apples for the best results. Peel, core, and dice them into small pieces, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch. This helps them cook evenly with the cake.
Proper Apple Preparation Techniques
- Peel the apples using a good vegetable peeler for efficient and safe preparation.
- Core the apples and remove any seeds or tough spots.
- Cut the apples into evenly sized pieces, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch each.
- For a Granny Smith-based coffee cake, use about 2 cups of diced apples.
“The key to an exceptional apple coffee cake is choosing the right apples and preparing them properly. The combination of tart Granny Smiths and sweet Honeycrisps creates a perfect balance of flavors.”
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture
Making a moist and tasty apple coffee cake needs careful attention to texture. By following a few simple baking tips, you can make sure your cake has the perfect crumb every time.
- Spoon and level your flour – Don’t pack it down. This helps prevent a dense, heavy cake.
- Cream the butter and sugar for 4-5 minutes until light and fluffy. This incorporates air into the batter for a tender moist cake texture.
- Alternate between adding the dry mixture and the buttermilk, blending gradually. This helps prevent overmixing, which can lead to a tough, chewy cake texture.
- Use room temperature eggs and buttermilk. Cold ingredients don’t blend as easily, resulting in an uneven baking tips for the perfect rise.
- Be careful not to overmix after incorporating the flour. Gently fold in the apples to preserve their texture and prevent a dense crumb.
By following these simple baking tips, you’re well on your way to creating an apple coffee cake with a delightfully moist, tender crumb that’s sure to impress.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
Enjoying a homemade apple coffee cake is a real treat. But did you know you can make it ahead and save it for later? With the right storage and reheating, you can enjoy this tasty treat for days.
Freezing Guidelines
Freezing is the best way to keep your apple coffee cake fresh for longer. Cover the entire cake or individual slices securely with plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. This keeps the cake fresh and moist for up to 3 months.
Reheating Recommendations
When you’re ready to eat your frozen apple coffee cake, thaw it at room temperature. For slices, warm them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. This brings back the fresh-baked taste and smell.
Follow these tips to enjoy your apple coffee cake long after baking. Freeze the whole cake or save slices for a quick treat whenever you want.
Variations and Customization Options
The apple cream cheese cake recipe is perfect for adding your own twist. You can make it nutty, spicier, or richer. It’s all about making it your own.
Adding a quarter cup of walnuts to the batter or streusel topping is a great idea. The crunchy walnuts add a nice contrast to the soft cake and sweet apples.
Love warm spices? Try adding more cinnamon or a teaspoon of apple pie spice to the batter. It will make the cake taste like autumn.
Want a deeper flavor? Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. This ingredient contributes a tangy, creamy flavor to the cake.
For an extra creamy treat, mix in a quarter cup of cream cheese into the batter. It makes the apple coffee cake incredibly rich and creamy.
This recipe is all about trying new things. Feel free to experiment with ingredients to make a coffee cake that’s just right for you.
| Variation | Ingredient Addition/Substitution | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Nutty Crunch | 1/4 cup chopped walnuts | Adds a delightful textural contrast to the soft, moist cake and sweet apples. |
| Spiced Delight | 1 tsp apple pie spice | Enhances the autumnal flavor profile with warm, comforting spices. |
| Tangy Richness | Greek yogurt (substituted for sour cream) | Adds an extra layer of complexity and creaminess to the cake. |
| Decadent Indulgence | 1/4 cup cream cheese | Results in a delightfully creamy and indulgent apple coffee cake. |
Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas
Your freshly baked apple coffee cake is a true delight that deserves to be showcased in style. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weekend brunch or a special occasion, there are endless ways to present this scrumptious treat and make it even more irresistible.
Accompaniment Recommendations
The classic pairing for this apple coffee cake is a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of milk. The rich, buttery flavors of the cake pair beautifully with the bold notes of a freshly brewed coffee or the creamy smoothness of cold milk. For a touch of indulgence, consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream.
Garnishing Tips
- Dust the top of the cooled cake with a light coating of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and a visually appealing presentation.
- Drizzle a simple vanilla glaze over the top of the cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides. The glaze can be made by mixing 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Garnish the cake with a few thin apple slices, arranged in a decorative pattern on the top. You can lightly brush the apple slices with a bit of melted powdered sugar or a vanilla glaze for an extra sheen.
- Sprinkle chopped toasted nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, over the top of the cake for a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
No matter how you choose to serve and present your apple coffee cake, the combination of moist, flavorful cake and the perfect accompaniments is sure to delight your guests and leave them craving for more.
Troubleshooting Common Baking Issues
Baking the perfect apple coffee cake is a fun challenge. But, sometimes, unexpected issues can pop up. Don’t worry, we have solutions for common baking problems. This way, your cake will always turn out beautifully.
If your cake feels too dense, double-check your flour measurements. Also, make sure to cream the butter well. For a dry cake, the problem is usually overbaking. Start checking the cake at 45 minutes to prevent overbaking. If the apples are not cooked enough, just cut them into smaller pieces next time.
Concerned about the top browning too fast? Use foil to cover the cake and prevent it from over-browning. Your cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out without batter.
Addressing Baking Problems
- Problem: Cake catching around the edges due to excessive oven heat.
- Solution: Reduce oven temperature slightly or use a lower rack position to prevent over-browning.
| Baking Issue | Potential Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Cake sinking in the middle | Overworking the batter or under-baking | Be gentle when mixing the batter and test for doneness with a toothpick |
| Dry, crumbly texture | Overbaking | Check the cake a few minutes early and adjust baking time as needed |
| Uneven sponge height | Expired leavening agents | Ensure your baking powder and soda are not expired for the best outcome. |
| Cupcakes separating from cases | Overworking the batter | Mix the batter gently to avoid developing too much gluten |
By tackling these common baking problems, you’ll make delicious cake texture and baking time apple coffee cakes every time. Happy baking!
Conclusion
The apple coffee cake recipe is a true delight for your taste buds. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert. The cake is moist and flavorful, with tender apple chunks and a crumbly streusel topping.
This recipe can be easily modified to match your tastes. It’s a perfect choice for any season. By using fresh ingredients and following the techniques, you can make this treat at home. It will fill your kitchen with the aroma of baked apples and cinnamon.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy moment, this apple coffee cake is a must-try. It delivers a harmonious blend of sweet, tart, and spiced flavors.
Share it with your family and friends and watch their faces light up with joy.
