Apple Coffee Cake Recipe – Moist, Delicious, and Perfect for Any Occasion
Table of Contents
Apple Coffee Cake Recipe: A Delicious Harmony of Flavors and Comfort
There’s nothing quite like a warm slice of apple coffee cake paired with a cup of coffee to make you feel cozy and content. This recipe blends the natural sweetness of apples with the richness of cinnamon and sugar, resulting in a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a light breakfast, a midday snack, or a dessert to serve at a gathering, this apple coffee cake is guaranteed to be a favorite.
Why Apple Coffee Cake?
Apple coffee cake combines the softness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon, creating an irresistible flavor combination in every bite. Apples not only add natural sweetness but also help keep the cake moist, ensuring it’s tender. The crumble topping adds a crunchy contrast, making each slice a delightful experience. This cake is versatile, perfect for breakfast or as an after-dinner treat, and the simplicity of the recipe makes it easy to bake while still delivering a cake that feels special.
With its perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and texture, apple coffee cake is the ideal dessert. The apples contribute moisture, the cinnamon enhances the flavor, and the topping provides that satisfying crunch. Simple to make yet indulgent, this cake can be baked by anyone, regardless of skill level.
Apple Coffee Cake Recipe – Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make a light, flavorful apple coffee cake:
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups | Forms the structure of the cake |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | Sweetens the cake and enhances texture |
| Baking powder | 1 ½ tsp | Helps the cake rise, creating a light, fluffy texture |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp | Adds warmth and spice to the flavor profile |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup (1 stick) | Contributes richness and moisture |
| Eggs | 2 large | Provide structure and moisture to the cake |
| Milk | ¾ cup | Keeps the batter moist and tender |
| Apples (peeled and chopped) | 2 medium | Add sweetness, moisture, and texture |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup | Sweetens the topping and adds a caramelized flavor |
| Rolled oats | ½ cup | Adds texture and a slight crunch to the topping |
| Chopped walnuts (optional) | ¼ cup | Provides extra flavor and crunch (optional) |
Instructions for the Cake
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square cake pan to prevent the cake from sticking. - Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon to form the base of your cake batter. - Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and eggs until smooth. Add the milk and stir to combine. - Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this could make the cake dense. - Add the Apples
Gently fold the chopped apples into the batter, ensuring an even distribution. - Prepare the Crumble Topping
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, oats, and walnuts (if using). Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the cake batter. - Bake the Cake
Put the cake in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out dry.
If the topping starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover it with foil to prevent over-baking. - Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and serve.
Tips for the Perfect Apple Coffee Cake
- Choose the Right Apples: Select firm apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala, which hold their shape during baking and add the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
- Cinnamon Swirl: For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle cinnamon sugar between the layers of batter before adding the apples.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake suitable for those with dietary restrictions, without compromising its texture.
- Topping Variations: You can experiment with the crumble topping by adding chopped pecans or almonds for an added flavor twist.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Coffee Cake
- Moist and Flavorful: The apples keep the cake moist, and the butter and cinnamon create a tender, rich flavor.
- Easy to Make: With readily available ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can create this delicious treat.
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness to your liking, add different fruits, or make it gluten-free to meet your dietary preferences.
- Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a brunch, enjoying a coffee break, or serving it as a light dessert, this apple coffee cake is perfect for any occasion.
Apple Coffee Cake – Nutritional Breakdown
Here’s a nutritional breakdown for a slice of cake, assuming 12 slices:
| Nutrient | Amount per Slice |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250-300 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 20g |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient choices and serving sizes.
Conclusion
Apple coffee cake offers the perfect mix of tender apples, spicy cinnamon, and a delightful crumbly topping. This simple recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth while offering a comforting treat. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cozy weekend snack, this apple coffee cake will be a crowd-pleaser that you can easily share with friends and family.