Moist Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake Recipe
Introduction
This Moist Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake is a perfect treat for any time of day. Packed with tender apples and warm cinnamon spices, it’s a comforting dessert that pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups chopped apples
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Step 3: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Step 6: In a small bowl, combine the chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and the additional 1/4 cup flour. Add pecans if using.
- Step 7: Spread half of the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Step 8: Sprinkle half of the apple cinnamon mixture over the batter.
- Step 9: Spread the remaining cake batter over the apple mixture.
- Step 10: Top with the remaining apple cinnamon mixture.
- Step 11: Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 12: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Variations
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced sweet and tangy flavor.
- For a crunchier topping, increase pecans or add walnuts.
- Substitute buttermilk with milk plus 1 tablespoon vinegar if you don’t have buttermilk on hand.
- Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of cream cheese glaze for extra indulgence.
Storage
Store the coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave or oven until heated through.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen apples instead of fresh?
It’s best to use fresh apples for this recipe since frozen apples release excess moisture that can make the cake soggy. If using frozen, thaw and drain them well before adding.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Be sure to choose one that includes xanthan gum or add it separately for better texture.
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Moist Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Moist Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake is a delightful treat featuring tender cake layers swirled with a sweet and spicy apple cinnamon filling. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack, this cake combines the warmth of cinnamon and fresh apples with a soft, buttery crumb.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
Apple Cinnamon Filling
- 2 cups chopped apples
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will help create a tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
- Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients and mix just until combined to avoid overmixing.
- Prepare Apple Cinnamon Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the chopped apples, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and the additional 1/4 cup of flour. Stir to coat the apples. Add pecans, if using, for extra texture and flavor.
- Layer Batter and Filling: Spread half of the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Then sprinkle half of the apple cinnamon mixture over the batter. Next, spread the remaining cake batter over the apple layer and top with the remaining apple cinnamon mixture to create a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling that the cake is fully baked.
- Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving. This cooling step helps the cake set and enhances the flavors.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balance of sweetness and acidity.
- For a nut-free version, omit pecans.
- Ensure butter is softened but not melted for best creaming results.
- This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven before serving for a fresh-baked taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: apple cinnamon coffee cake, moist coffee cake, breakfast cake, cinnamon apple dessert, easy coffee cake
