Get ready to indulge in a warm, buttery slice of joy with my Apple Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake recipe! This delightful cake combines fresh apples and a crunchy streusel that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, making this cake is a breeze. Let’s dive into the simple ingredients, easy steps, and expert tips that make this coffee cake a must-try for any occasion!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced (preferably Granny Smith)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ cup brown sugar
– ½ cup rolled oats
– ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Ingredient Tips
When choosing apples, I love Granny Smith for their tartness. They add great flavor. Make sure your butter is softened. This helps it mix well with sugar. Use fresh eggs for the best rise. For the streusel, you can swap walnuts with pecans or leave them out if you prefer.
Equipment Needed
You will need a mixing bowl and a hand mixer for this recipe. A 9×13 inch baking pan is perfect for the cake. Keep parchment paper handy to line the pan. You will also need measuring cups and spoons for accuracy. A whisk is great for mixing dry ingredients. Finally, don’t forget a toothpick to test if the cake is done.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. You can also use parchment paper for easy removal.
3. In a medium bowl, mix 2 cups of flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Set this bowl aside.
4. Now, in a large mixing bowl, beat ¾ cup of softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer until it turns light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Then, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
6. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mix. Alternate with 1 cup of sour cream. Start and end with the dry mix. Mix until just combined; don’t overmix.
7. Fold in 2 cups of diced apples. Make sure they are evenly mixed.
Baking Instructions
1. In a small bowl, create the streusel topping. Combine ½ cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of rolled oats, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ cup of chopped walnuts if you want.
2. If the mixture feels dry, add a little melted butter to help it stick.
3. Pour half of the apple batter into the prepared pan. Spread it evenly.
4. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over this layer.
5. Pour in the rest of the batter and finish with the remaining streusel on top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes. Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Cooling and Serving Tips
1. Let the coffee cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
2. Carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. For a special touch, serve warm or at room temperature. Dust with powdered sugar and add whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on the side.
Enjoy your delicious Apple Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Coffee Cake
To make the best apple cinnamon streusel coffee cake, focus on a few key steps:
– Use the right apples: I love Granny Smith apples. They add a nice tartness.
– Cream the butter and sugar well: Beat until fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This adds air to your cake.
– Do not overmix the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing makes the cake dense.
– Layer your streusel: Pour half the batter, add some streusel, then repeat. This gives great flavor in each bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
There are a few common mistakes that can ruin your coffee cake:
– Skipping the flour sifting: This helps to aerate the flour and remove lumps.
– Using cold butter: Softened butter mixes better with sugar. Cold butter can lead to a dense cake.
– Not measuring ingredients properly: Use a kitchen scale for accuracy. Too much flour can dry out your cake.
– Ignoring the cooling time: Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before moving it. This helps it set properly.
How to Achieve the Best Flavor
To enhance the flavor of your coffee cake, consider these tips:
– Add a pinch of nutmeg: This spice complements cinnamon well.
– Use good-quality vanilla extract: Real vanilla can elevate the taste.
– Try different nuts: If you like, swap walnuts for pecans for a new twist.
– Serve with a drizzle: A light glaze or whipped cream adds a nice touch.
Variations
Nut-Free Options
For a nut-free version of this coffee cake, simply leave out the walnuts. You can still enjoy a crunchy topping by using rolled oats and brown sugar. This keeps the streusel tasty and safe for those with nut allergies.
Healthy Ingredient Swaps
You can make a few easy swaps to make this cake healthier. Try using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This adds fiber and nutrients. You can also replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or honey for a more natural sweetness. Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for added protein and a lower fat content.
Flavor Variations
Want to mix it up? You can add chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet surprise. Dark chocolate pairs well with apples and cinnamon. You might also try adding other fruits like pears or berries. Each fruit gives a unique twist to the cake.
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
Store your cooled coffee cake in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and moist. You can place it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it. It will last about a week in the fridge.
Reheating Instructions
To enjoy warm slices, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes. You can also use the microwave. Heat one slice at a time for about 20-30 seconds.
Freezing Tips
To freeze, wrap the whole cake or slices tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer bag. This way, it stays fresh for up to three months. When ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat as needed.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, you can use other apples. Some good choices are Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. Each type gives a unique taste. Granny Smith apples are tart and hold shape well. If you want sweetness, try Fuji apples. They blend nicely in the cake.
How do I know when the coffee cake is done?
Check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. You can also look for a golden top. The edges should slightly pull away from the pan. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Is it possible to make this coffee cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this coffee cake gluten-free. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure the blend has xanthan gum for better texture. This swap will keep the flavor and make it safe for those with gluten intolerance.
This article covered key ingredients, tips, and step-by-step instructions for making coffee cake. I shared simple methods for preparation, baking, and serving, along with common mistakes to avoid. We explored variations, storage tips, and answered FAQs to help you succeed. Remember, the right ingredients and techniques make all the difference. Now, you have the tools to create a delicious coffee cake that you and your friends will love. Enjoy baking and experimenting with flavors!
