Are you ready for a delicious treat that combines the warm flavors of apple and cinnamon? This Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake recipe is not only simple but also irresistible! With a moist crumb and a sweet, crunchy topping, it’s perfect for breakfast or dessert. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make your coffee cake a hit. Let’s dive in and bake something amazing!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup buttermilk
Additional Ingredients
– 2 cups apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
To create the best apple cinnamon coffee cake, using quality ingredients is key. The choice of apples matters because their tartness enhances sweetness. Granny Smith apples bring a nice contrast, while Honeycrisp offers a juicy bite.
The dry ingredients are the backbone of your cake. All-purpose flour gives it structure. Baking powder and baking soda create a light texture. Ground cinnamon infuses warmth and flavor, making each bite a delight.
For wet ingredients, I use softened unsalted butter to ensure smooth mixing. The large egg adds richness, while buttermilk gives moisture and tang. This combination helps achieve the perfect crumb.
Don’t forget the brown sugar! It adds depth and a caramel-like note. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, toss in some chopped pecans. They add texture and a nutty flavor.
With these ingredients, you set the stage for a delicious coffee cake that’s hard to resist!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
– In a large bowl, whisk together:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Mixing Wet Ingredients
– In a separate bowl, cream 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter with an electric mixer until smooth.
– Add 1 large egg to the butter and mix well.
– Gradually add 1 cup of buttermilk, mixing until fully combined.
Combining the Mixtures
– Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined.
– Avoid overmixing.
– Gently fold in 2 cups of peeled and diced apples.
Layering and Baking
– Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly.
– Sprinkle half of the brown sugar mixture on top.
– Pour the remaining batter over the sugar layer. Spread evenly.
– Top with the rest of the brown sugar mixture.
– Bake for 30-35 minutes. Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
– Allow the coffee cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before moving it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Moisture and Flavor
To keep your cake moist, avoid overmixing the batter. Mixing too much can make the cake tough. After adding the dry mix to the wet mix, stir just until you see no dry flour.
Choosing the right type of apples is key. I love using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples. They add a nice tartness and hold their shape well during baking.
Baking Tips
To check if your coffee cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. If it has wet batter on it, bake for a few more minutes.
You can grease your baking dish with butter or oil. If you prefer an easy cleanup, line it with parchment paper. This helps the cake come out smoothly.
Presentation Suggestions
When serving, slice the cake into squares. You can dust the top with powdered sugar for a nice touch. A drizzle of simple icing adds sweetness and style.
For an extra treat, serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. It pairs perfectly with the warm cake and enhances the flavors.
Variations
Swapping Ingredients
You can change the nuts in this coffee cake. Use walnuts or almonds if you like. If you prefer, skip the nuts altogether. For a creamier cake, you can swap regular milk for dairy-free options. Almond milk or oat milk works well here.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to spice things up? Add nutmeg or ginger to the batter. These spices give the cake a warm, cozy flavor. You can also mix in raisins or other fruits like blueberries or cranberries. This adds more sweetness and texture.
Glaze Variations
Get creative with the glaze! You can make a simple icing with powdered sugar and water. Drizzle it over the top for a sweet touch. For a seasonal twist, try adding pumpkin spice to the glaze in fall. It brings a festive vibe to your coffee cake.
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To keep your apple cinnamon coffee cake fresh, store it in the fridge. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This method helps keep the cake moist and tasty. In the fridge, the cake lasts for about 4 to 5 days.
Long-Term Storage
If you want to keep this cake longer, freezing is a great option. First, let the cake cool completely. Then, slice it into pieces. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice anytime! The cake stays fresh in the freezer for about 3 months. When you are ready to eat, take out a slice and let it thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Suggestions
To warm up your coffee cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a slice on a baking sheet and heat for 10 to 15 minutes. This method helps the cake stay moist and soft. You can also use a microwave. Heat a slice for about 20 to 30 seconds. If using a microwave, cover the slice with a damp paper towel. This keeps the cake from drying out. Enjoy your warm, delicious coffee cake!
FAQs
Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this coffee cake the night before. Just bake it and let it cool. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh for about 2 days. For longer storage, place it in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just wrap it well to avoid freezer burn.
What is the best way to serve Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake?
This coffee cake is great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Serve it warm for a cozy treat. You can slice it into squares and add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet dessert. It also goes well with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
Yes, you can swap apples for other fruits. Pears, peaches, or even berries work well. Just make sure to adjust the sugar based on the fruit’s sweetness. For example, use less sugar if you choose sweet berries. This makes the cake versatile and fun to experiment with!
This blog post walks you through making a delicious Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake. We covered key ingredients, mixing steps, storage tips, and fun variations. Remember, the apples you choose and how you mix the batter are crucial for flavor and texture. Don’t rush; enjoy the process. Your cake will be moist and tasty if you follow these steps. Trust me, this coffee cake will not only satisfy your taste buds but also bring joy to your kitchen! Happy baking!
