Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake: Irresistible Fall Comfort in Every Bite

Imagine the aroma of apples and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen, evoking memories of cozy family gatherings and autumn days. As a child, I always found comfort in the warm, spicy scent of an apple cinnamon coffee cake baking in the oven. This delightful treat was the highlight of our weekend brunches, a special occasion that brought us all together.

Now, as the creator of GrandMmaDelights, I am thrilled to share my love for this classic dessert. Making an apple cinnamon coffee cake is not just about the flavors—it’s about the joy of crafting something delicious from scratch. This cake has a tender crumb, a burst of apple sweetness, and a crumbly topping that makes each bite a delightful experience.

The beauty of an apple cinnamon coffee cake lies in its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re enjoying it as a morning treat with coffee or as a comforting dessert after dinner, its familiar flavors are sure to please everyone. Let’s dive into the details and recreate this beloved cake, celebrating its timeless appeal.

Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 1 cake

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Description

Indulge in the delicious flavors of homemade apple cinnamon coffee cake with this easy recipe. Learn how to bake a perfect treat for breakfast or dessert!

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Ingredients

• – 1/3 cup (80 ml) brown sugar
• – 2 tablespoons (30 ml) granulated sugar
• – 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) cinnamon
• – 1/8 teaspoon (.5 g) salt
• – 4 tablespoons (60 ml) butter (melted)
• – 2/3 cup (160 ml) all-purpose flour
• – 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
• – 1 teaspoon (5 g) baking soda
• – 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) baking powder
• – 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) salt
• – 2 teaspoons (10 g) cinnamon
• – 2/3 cup (160 ml) yogurt (any plain or vanilla flavored yogurt or Greek yogurt; can substitute buttermilk or sour cream)
• – 1/2 cup (120 ml) brown sugar
• – 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
• – 1/4 cup (60 ml) pure maple syrup
• – 2 medium apples (peeled and cored)
• – 2 teaspoons (10 ml) lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Start by setting your oven to 350°F/175°C and prepare an 8-inch/20cm square baking dish by greasing and dusting it with flour.
2. For the crumb topping, combine both types of sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl. Use a fork to blend in the melted butter, then incorporate the flour until the mixture is just damp. Avoid overmixing and set it aside.
3. To prepare the cake, mix the dry components in a large bowl, including flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate medium bowl, blend together the yogurt, brown sugar, oil, and maple syrup.
4. Take one apple, chop it finely or grate it using the largest holes on a box grater, and mix it into the wet ingredients. Slice the remaining apple thinly, coat it with lemon juice, and set it aside.
5. Gently combine the dry mixture with the wet mixture until just mixed—be careful not to overdo it. The batter will be dense. Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish and even out the top.
6. Arrange the apple slices over the batter’s surface. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the apples.
7. Bake for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool for a minimum of 10 minutes before slicing and serving, either warm or at room temperature.

Notes

• For a healthier twist, substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream for regular yogurt in the cake batter.
• Make sure to peel and core the apples to prevent unwanted texture or bitterness.
• Enhance the crumb topping by adding chopped nuts or oats for a delicious crunch.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 400
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 15g

Keywords: apple crumb cake, cinnamon crumb topping, moist apple cake, maple syrup apple cake, yogurt apple cake

Crafting the Perfect Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake

Fundamentals

Creating a delightful apple cinnamon coffee cake starts with understanding its fundamental components. The key ingredients include brown sugar, cinnamon, and apples, which provide the signature taste and aroma. The crumb topping, made from brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, salt, butter, and flour, adds a delightful crunch to each slice.

For the cake batter, we use a combination of all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, yogurt, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and maple syrup. These ingredients come together to form a rich and moist cake base, perfectly complementing the apple and cinnamon flavors.

Preparation/Setup

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F/175°C. Prepare an 8-inch/20cm square baking dish by greasing and dusting it with flour. This step ensures your cake will release easily from the pan after baking.

For the crumb topping, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl. Blend in the melted butter using a fork, then incorporate the flour until the mixture is just damp. Set this aside while you prepare the cake batter.

Mastering the Art of Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake

Technique

The technique for making an apple cinnamon coffee cake involves mixing dry and wet ingredients separately before combining them. In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, blend the yogurt, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and maple syrup. This method ensures even distribution of ingredients, resulting in a well-balanced cake.

Chop or grate one of the apples and mix it into the wet ingredients. This step infuses the cake with fresh apple flavor. Slice the remaining apple thinly, coat it with lemon juice, and set it aside for the topping.

Tips/Tricks

To achieve the best results, avoid overmixing the batter. Combine the dry and wet ingredients gently until just mixed. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Use yogurt, buttermilk, or sour cream for a tender crumb. Each option adds a unique tang that complements the sweetness of the apples.

For an even more pronounced apple flavor, consider using a mix of apple varieties in the cake. This approach adds complexity, as each type of apple brings a different sweetness and texture.

Elevating Your Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake

Perfecting Results

Perfecting your apple cinnamon coffee cake involves a few key considerations. Ensure the oven is at the correct temperature before baking. This guarantees even cooking and the right texture. Arrange the apple slices over the batter’s surface before adding the crumb topping. This layering not only looks appealing but also ensures a balanced flavor in every bite.

Bake the cake for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This indicates that the cake is fully cooked. Allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the cake set, making it easier to serve.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If your cake turns out too dense, it might be due to overmixing or incorrect measurements. Ensure your baking soda and baking powder are fresh, as these leavening agents play a crucial role in the cake’s rise. If you prefer a more pronounced cinnamon flavor, increase the amount slightly, keeping in mind the balance of the other ingredients.

For variations, try adding nuts or dried fruits to the batter for extra texture and flavor. These additions can transform the cake into a delightful new experience, perfect for experimenting and personalizing to your taste.

Serving Your Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake

Serving/Presentation

When serving your apple cinnamon coffee cake, presentation plays a vital role. Arrange the slices on a decorative plate and dust with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. The cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal choice for a cozy afternoon treat or a delightful dessert.

For a more festive presentation, top the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. These additions enhance the cake’s flavors, creating a decadent dessert experience your guests will love.

Pairings/Storage

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake, but bring it to room temperature before serving to enjoy its full flavor. This apple cinnamon coffee cake is versatile, making it a fantastic addition to brunch spreads or a comforting treat during the week.

Whether enjoyed on its own or alongside other favorites like a cinnamon swirl pound cake loaf, this cake is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Its classic flavors and inviting aroma make it an irresistible choice for any occasion.

Conclusion

This apple cinnamon coffee cake combines the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of apples, making it a timeless favorite. Its crumbly topping and moist crumb offer a delightful texture that pairs beautifully with a variety of occasions. By following the techniques and tips outlined here, you can craft a cake that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Embrace the simplicity and versatility of this recipe, and enjoy the process of turning simple ingredients into something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this cake is a rewarding project that captures the essence of home baking. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to bring people together, one slice at a time.

FAQs – Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake