If you’re craving a sweet and cozy dessert, you’ve found it! This Cinnamon Apple Crumble Coffee Cake is the perfect treat for any occasion. Imagine warm apples, rich cinnamon, and a crunchy crumble topping that melts in your mouth. I’ll guide you through each step to create this easy and delicious cake. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this irresistible combination of flavors!
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients
To make this Cinnamon Apple Crumble Coffee Cake, you will need the following items:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups peeled and diced apples (any sweet variety, like Honeycrisp or Fuji)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the crumble topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
Substitutions for Key Ingredients
If you need to swap some ingredients, here are a few ideas:
– Granulated sugar: You can use coconut sugar or maple sugar.
– Unsalted butter: Try using coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
– Sour cream: Greek yogurt works well as a substitute.
– Apples: If you want a tart flavor, use Granny Smith apples.
These swaps can change the taste a bit but still keep the cake tasty.
Recommended Types of Apples for the Best Flavor
To get the best flavor in your coffee cake, choose sweet apples. Here are my top picks:
– Honeycrisp: They are sweet and juicy, perfect for baking.
– Fuji: These apples are crisp and have a good balance of sweet and tart.
– Gala: They are sweet and add a nice flavor to the cake.
Using these apple types will give you a delicious, flavorful treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the cake cook evenly. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until you have a light and fluffy mix. This step is key to a soft cake.
Next, add the eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Then, stir in the sour cream. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Slowly add this dry mix to your wet mix. Be careful not to over-mix; just blend until combined.
Now, fold in the diced apples and walnuts, if you choose to use them. Make sure the apples are spread evenly throughout the batter. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and spread it out evenly.
How to Make the Crumble Topping
For the crumble topping, grab a medium bowl. Mix together the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold, cubed butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine the butter into the dry mix. You want it to be crumbly. It should resemble small pebbles.
Once the crumble is ready, sprinkle it evenly over the cake batter. This topping adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
Baking Guidelines and Checking for Doneness
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 30-35 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
Let the cake cool in the dish for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps keep the cake from getting soggy. Enjoy the wonderful smell that fills your kitchen!
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips for a Fluffy Coffee Cake
To make your coffee cake fluffy, here are some tips:
– Use room temperature ingredients. This helps them mix well.
– Cream the butter and sugars until light. This adds air to the batter.
– Don’t over-mix. Stir just until combined for a soft texture.
– Use fresh baking powder and baking soda. This gives the cake a nice rise.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Avoid these common mistakes to ensure success:
– Don’t skip greasing the pan. This prevents sticking.
– Measure flour correctly. Too much can make the cake dense.
– Check the oven temp with a thermometer. An oven that is too hot can burn the cake.
– Allow the cake to cool before slicing. This keeps the texture intact.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This coffee cake shines on its own, but you can enhance it:
– Serve warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
– Add a dollop of whipped cream for richness.
– Pair with coffee or spiced tea for a cozy treat.
– Try it with vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist.
Enjoy these tips to make your Cinnamon Apple Crumble Coffee Cake truly irresistible!
Variations
Gluten-Free Cinnamon Apple Crumble Coffee Cake
To make this cake gluten-free, swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture. Your cake will still be soft and moist. You can enjoy the same great flavors and the warm spice of cinnamon. Always check that your other ingredients, like baking powder and sugar, are also gluten-free.
Seasonal Variations
You can change this cake based on what’s in season. For fall, add chopped walnuts for a nice crunch. In summer, try using fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries. Each fruit adds its own flavor. You can also mix apples with pears for a unique twist. This keeps the cake fresh and fun all year round.
Vegan Adaptations for the Recipe
To make a vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for five minutes. Use a vegan sour cream or unsweetened applesauce instead of regular sour cream. Replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine. This way, you can enjoy a tasty cake that fits a plant-based diet.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
Storing your leftover Cinnamon Apple Crumble Coffee Cake is simple. First, let the cake cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. This helps keep the moisture in and stops the cake from drying out. You can also store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to three days at room temperature. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
How to Freeze Cinnamon Apple Crumble Coffee Cake
Freezing this cake is a great option if you want to save some for later. Start by cutting the cake into slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to label the bag with the date. The cake can stay frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just take out the slices you need.
Reheating Tips for Optimal Flavor
To reheat your cake, you can use the oven or microwave. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the slice on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. This method helps keep the cake moist. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too. Heat each slice for about 15-20 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat, or the cake may become tough. Enjoy your warm cake with a sprinkle of powdered sugar!
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, you can use many types of apples. I recommend sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. They add great flavor and sweetness. You can mix different apples for a unique taste. Tart apples, like Granny Smith, can work too. Just balance them with more sugar to keep it sweet.
How can I make the coffee cake more moist?
To make the cake moist, use more sour cream. You can add an extra 1/4 cup. This keeps the cake soft and tender. Also, don’t overmix the batter. Mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake dry. Lastly, avoid baking it too long. Check for doneness a few minutes early.
What’s the best way to serve this cake?
I love to serve this cake warm. A sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a nice touch. Pair it with whipped cream for extra flavor. You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This makes it extra special. Enjoy it with coffee or tea for a perfect treat!
In this post, I shared how to make a delicious cinnamon apple crumble coffee cake. You learned about the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. I also covered variations and storage ideas.
This cake tastes great any time you serve it. With simple swaps and tips, you can make it yours. Enjoy baking, and remember to share it with friends and family!
