How to Make Apple Coffee Cake with a Perfect Crumb Topping
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As leaves change color and the air gets crisp, nothing beats the smell of apple coffee cake baking. This classic fall treat combines sweet apples, warm spices, and a buttery crumb topping. It’s sure to make your senses happy and put a smile on your face.
Baking is a joy and comfort, especially in autumn. Measuring, mixing, and putting together the ingredients feels grounding and calming. And when you take the cake out of the oven, the joy is even greater.
Key Takeaways
- Learn how to make a delicious apple coffee cake with a perfect crumb topping
- Discover the secret to a moist and flavorful cake batter
- Explore different apple varieties that work well in this fall-inspired treat
- Master the art of creating a buttery, crunchy crumb topping
- Learn tips and tricks for baking the coffee cake to perfection
Introduction to Apple Coffee Cake
Apple coffee cake is a favorite autumn treat. It mixes fresh apples, cinnamon, and a buttery crumb topping. This cake is moist, with juicy apples and a crunchy topping that’s hard to resist. It’s great for a cozy brunch or a fall dessert.
What is Apple Coffee Cake?
Apple coffee cake is a classic recipe with fresh apples. It uses common ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and sour cream. The apples add a tartness and juicy flavor.
Why it’s the Perfect Fall Treat
The mix of apples, cinnamon, and a crumbly topping makes apple coffee cake perfect for fall. It’s warm and comforting, perfect with coffee or tea. Enjoy it all fall and winter for a taste of autumn.
“Apple coffee cake is the perfect fall treat, capturing the cozy, comforting flavors of the season in every bite.”
Ingredients for Apple Coffee Cake
To make a delicious apple coffee cake, you’ll need some basic ingredients. You’ll also need special ingredients that give the cake its unique taste and texture. Fresh apples, sour cream, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg are key. Having these ingredients ready will help you make a tasty apple coffee cake easily.
Pantry Staples Needed
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Unsalted butter
- Vegetable oil
- Vanilla extract
- Eggs
Key Ingredients: Apples, Sour Cream, and Spices
The main ingredients that make apple coffee cake special are:
- Fresh apples – Pick a variety that stays firm when baked, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
- Sour cream or plain yogurt – This adds richness and a slight tang to the mix.
- Ground cinnamon and nutmeg – These spices enhance the apple flavor.
With these pantry staples and special ingredients, you’re all set to bake a wonderful apple coffee cake. It’s perfect for enjoying in the fall.
Making the Crumb Topping
The crumb topping is the crowning glory of this delectable apple coffee cake. To create the perfect crumb topping, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. These include all-purpose flour, brown sugar, white sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
Begin by mixing ¾ cup (95g) of all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons (40g) of granulated sugar, and 3 tablespoons (35g) of packed light brown sugar in a medium-sized bowl. Next, add 4 ½ tablespoons (65g) of melted vegan butter and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Use your fingers or a fork to mix until you get a sandy, crumbly texture.
This irresistible crumb topping is then layered over the apple-studded cake batter before baking. It creates a delightfully crunchy and buttery contrast to the moist cake beneath. The result is a coffee cake with a flavor and texture that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds.
“The crumb topping is the crowning glory of this apple coffee cake recipe.”
Preparing the Apple Coffee Cake Batter
To make the perfect apple coffee cake, start by mixing the dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set it aside while you work on the wet ingredients.
Creaming the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream the room temperature butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step adds air, making the cake tender and moist. Beat in the egg and then mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract. The sour cream adds a tangy flavor and moisture.
Next, combine the dry and wet ingredients. Fold the dry mixture into the wet batter gently. Be careful not to overmix, as it can make the cake tough. Finally, add the diced apples and mix them evenly into the batter.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose Flour | 1 cup |
| Baking Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Baking Soda | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Unsalted Butter, Room Temperature | 1/4 cup |
| Brown Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Sour Cream | 1/2 cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Diced Apples | 2-3 cups |
Now that the batter is ready, you can assemble and bake the apple coffee cake.
Assembling the apple coffee cake
Layering the apple coffee cake is key to getting the apples and crumb topping right. Here’s how to do it:
- First, spread half of the thick and creamy cake batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Top the batter layer with the diced Joyfully Grown Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-laced crumb topping mixture over the apples.
- Next, dollop the remaining cake batter over the crumbs and gently spread it as best as possible.
- Finally, finish by sprinkling the last of the crumb topping over the top.
This layering method ensures the apples and crumbs are spread out evenly. It makes every bite balanced and full of flavor. The mix of moist cake, juicy apples, and crunchy crumbs is a perfect autumn treat.
“The key to an amazing apple coffee cake is in the layering. Each bite should have the perfect ratio of cake, apples, and crumbs.”
Now that your apple coffee cake is ready, you’re close to enjoying a slice of autumnal bliss. Next, we’ll share baking tips to make your coffee cake perfect every time.
Baking Tips and Techniques
Baking the perfect apple coffee cake needs focus and some key techniques. To get the right texture and taste, stick to the recipe closely. This is especially true for oven temperature and baking time.
Oven Temperature and Baking Time
The recipe says to bake the apple coffee cake at 350°F (180°C) for 45 to 55 minutes. This temperature helps the cake cook evenly and get a nice golden crust. If the top gets too brown, cover it with foil for the last 10-15 minutes.
Testing for Doneness
To check if the apple coffee cake is done, use a toothpick or skewer. Stick it into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. Don’t overbake, as it can make the cake dry and crumbly.
You can also use an instant-read thermometer. The cake is done when it reaches about 210°F (99°C).
| Baking Technique | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | 325°F to 350°F |
| Baking Time | 45 to 55 minutes |
| Doneness Check | Toothpick or skewer test, internal temperature around 210°F |
By using these baking tips and techniques, your apple coffee cake will be moist, flavorful, and crumbly every time.
apple coffee cake Variations
This apple coffee cake recipe uses Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples. But, you can try other apple types to find your favorite taste. Apples like Fuji, Jonagold, or Pink Lady are great. They are firm, tart, and keep their shape well in the cake.
Different Apple Varieties to Try
- Fuji: A sweet-tart apple with a crisp, juicy texture that holds its shape well during baking.
- Jonagold: A cross between Jonathan and Golden Delicious, offering a balanced sweet-tart flavor and tender-yet-sturdy flesh.
- Pink Lady: Also known as Cripps Pink, this apple has a lovely pink hue and a refreshing acidity that complements the coffee cake’s richness.
Adding Nuts or Other Mix-Ins
Adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping adds a nice crunch. The nutty flavor goes well with the apple and spice flavors of the cake.
Other tasty mix-in ideas include:
- Dried cranberries for a pop of tartness
- Chocolate chips for a decadent twist
- A swirl of cinnamon-sugar through the batter
By trying different apple types and mix-ins, you can make many variations of this apple coffee cake. This lets you create something special that you and your guests will love.
| Variation | Percentage of Inclusion |
|---|---|
| Crumb Topping | 75% |
| 1 Cup of Sugar per Cake | Average |
| Cinnamon as the Most Common Spice | 90% |
| Diced Apples | 60% |
| Sliced Apples | 40% |
| Bake Time | 35-40 minutes |
| Storage | Up to 3 days in the fridge |
| Yogurt as a Sour Cream Substitute | 1:1 Ratio |
| Baking Soda Shelf Life | Up to 1-2 years |
Storing and Reheating Leftover Coffee Cake
Enjoying apple coffee cake doesn’t have to end when it’s all gone. You can keep it fresh for days with the right storage. Here’s how to store and reheat your apple coffee cake:
Storing Leftover Coffee Cake
Keep leftover apple coffee cake at room temperature. Cover it with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Even though the topping might get softer, the cake stays moist and tasty.
Reheating Coffee Cake Slices
To make the topping crispy again, reheat individual slices. Warm them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. Or bake in a 325°F oven for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil.
Freezing for Longer Storage
Freezing is great for longer storage. Apple coffee cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. Thaw at room temperature and reheat as needed.
These easy storage and reheating tips let you enjoy your apple coffee cake longer. Enjoy every bite of this delicious fall treat!
Conclusion
Apple coffee cake is a cozy and comforting fall treat. It’s moist, filled with apples, and topped with a crumbly layer. You can enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. It’s sure to become a favorite in your family.
Serve it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a perfect autumn treat. Or, pair it with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones this season.
The mix of tart apples, warm spices, and buttery crumb topping makes it special. You can enjoy it any time of day. It’s also easy to make, using ingredients you likely have at home.
So, why not try a slice of this apple coffee cake? It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want to enjoy a cozy moment. Bake a batch and make memories with your loved ones this season.
FAQ
What is apple coffee cake?
Apple coffee cake is a tasty fall treat. It’s a moist cake filled with fresh apples. It’s topped with a buttery, cinnamon-spiced crumb topping.
What makes apple coffee cake the perfect fall treat?
It combines apples, cinnamon, and a crumbly topping. This mix captures the cozy, comforting flavors of fall. It’s a delightful and crowd-pleasing recipe.
What ingredients are needed to make apple coffee cake?
You’ll need all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Also, salt, fresh apples, sour cream or plain yogurt, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The crumb topping includes flour, brown sugar, butter, and more cinnamon.
How do you make the crumb topping for apple coffee cake?
Mix flour, brown sugar, white sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This creates a sandy, crumbly mixture. It’s layered over the apple-studded cake batter before baking.
How do you assemble the apple coffee cake?
Spread half the cake batter in a baking dish. Add diced apples and half the crumb topping. Then, add the remaining cake batter and the final layer of crumb topping.
What is the best way to bake apple coffee cake?
Bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover it with foil for the last 10-15 minutes. Avoid overbaking to keep it moist.
Can you use different types of apples in the recipe?
Yes, try different apple varieties to find your favorite. Firm, tart apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, Jonagold, or Pink Lady work well.
How do you store and reheat leftover apple coffee cake?
Store leftover cake at room temperature, covered, for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. Or bake in a 325°F oven for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil, until the crumbs are crisp again.
