If you love the warm, sweet taste of fall, you’ll adore this Apple Crisp Coffee Cake recipe! It blends tender apples with a crunchy top that is just delightful. Whether it’s for breakfast or dessert, this simple recipe will bring a smile to your face. I’ll guide you through every step, ensuring your cake is a delicious hit. Ready to bake? Let’s get started on this sweet journey!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, divided
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 2 cups apples, peeled and diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ cup rolled oats
Measurement Tips
To make this cake perfect, measure your ingredients carefully. Use dry measuring cups for flour and sugar. For liquids, use a liquid measuring cup. Level off dry ingredients with a straight edge. This helps keep your cake moist and fluffy.
Make sure your butter is at room temperature. This means it should be soft but not melted. Room temperature eggs also mix better. Take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you start.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to switch things up, you can use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. It adds a nice flavor but may change the cake’s texture slightly.
For a dairy-free option, you can use almond milk or soy milk instead of buttermilk. Just add a little vinegar or lemon juice to mimic the tanginess of buttermilk. This will keep your cake light and tasty.
If you want to explore more options, you can find the Full Recipe to help you get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step warms the oven for even baking. Next, take a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it lightly with butter or cooking spray. This will help the cake come out easily after baking.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ½ cup of softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes. Next, add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Finally, stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract until just combined.
Combining Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Make sure these dry ingredients are mixed well. Then, alternate adding the dry mixture with 1 cup of buttermilk into the wet mixture. Start and end with the flour mixture. Stir gently until just combined; it’s okay if a few streaks of flour remain.
Adding Apples and Baking
Now, gently fold in 2 cups of peeled and diced apples, ensuring they are evenly spread through the batter. Pour the batter into the greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. In a small bowl, mix the remaining ½ cup of sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and ½ cup of rolled oats. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the batter.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving. For the full recipe, check the previous section.
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
To make your apple crisp coffee cake even tastier, you can add spices. Try using nutmeg or allspice for a warm touch. A splash of almond extract can give a nice twist too. If you want a crunch, mix in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. Dried fruits, like raisins or cranberries, can add sweetness and a chewy texture.
Achieving the Perfect Crisp
For a crunchy topping, use rolled oats in your mix. They add a great texture. Make sure to mix them well with sugar and cinnamon. Bake your cake at 350°F (175°C) for even cooking. If you want a deeper crisp, you can increase the heat to 375°F (190°C) for the last few minutes. Just watch it closely to avoid burning.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is best warm. You can dust it with powdered sugar for a sweet look. For an extra treat, drizzle some maple syrup on top. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness. It also goes well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Variations
Fruit Variations
You can change the fruit in your Apple Crisp Coffee Cake. Using different types of apples can give it a new taste. I love Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness. You might also try mixing apples with berries or peaches. Berries add a pop of color and flavor. Peaches bring a juicy sweetness that complements the apples well.
Healthier Versions
You can make healthier versions of this cake too. Reducing sugar content is one way. You can cut the sugar in half and still enjoy a tasty treat. Another option is to use sugar substitutes like honey or maple syrup. If you need gluten-free options, use almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour. These alternatives keep the cake moist and delicious.
Seasonal Twists
Seasonal flavors can make your cake special. In the fall, add pumpkin spice for a cozy twist. This spice blend includes cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for warmth. During the holidays, you can use nutmeg and cloves to make your cake festive. These spices will fill your home with delightful scents while baking.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
To keep your apple crisp coffee cake fresh, let it cool first. Place it on a wire rack. Once cooled, cover it with plastic wrap or foil. You can also use an airtight container. This helps keep moisture out and flavor in.
Reheating Tips
For the best taste, reheat your cake in the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This warms it up without making it soggy. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. Heat it in short bursts to avoid sogginess.
Freezing Guidelines
You can freeze the cake before or after baking. If freezing before, wrap it well in plastic. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking. If you freeze after baking, let it cool first. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer. To thaw, place it in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. For best results, reheat it in the oven after thawing.
FAQs
What type of apples are best for this recipe?
For this cake, I love using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples. They are tart and hold their shape well. This helps create a great texture in every bite. You can mix different apples for added flavor, too.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can! Substitute buttermilk with almond milk or coconut milk. You can also use vegan butter instead of regular butter. These swaps keep the cake moist and tasty.
How long does the apple crisp coffee cake last?
If stored properly, this cake lasts about three days at room temperature. Be sure to cover it well to keep it fresh. You can also store it in the fridge for up to a week.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a day in advance. Just keep it in the fridge. When ready, pour it into the pan and bake. This saves time for busy mornings.
What is the best way to serve this cake?
Serve this cake warm for the best flavor. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a nice touch. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect treat.
Where can I find the Full Recipe?
You can find the Full Recipe at the beginning of this article. It includes all the steps you need to create this delicious apple crisp coffee cake.
In this blog post, we explored the essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for making a delicious apple crisp coffee cake. You learned about ingredient measurement, possible substitutions, and variations to suit your taste. With insights on storage and reheating, you can enjoy this treat for longer. Remember, baking is both an art and a science. By following these guidelines, you can create a delightful dessert that everyone will love. Enjoy your baking journey and share your tasty results!
