Here’s a comprehensive guide to your Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake, including all the sections you requested, with no wide lines, and an easy-to-read format. This is perfect for baking enthusiasts who want a blend of classic flavor and simple technique.
Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake
Introduction
Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake is a warm, spiced treat that combines tender cake with the cozy essence of apples and cinnamon. Perfect for autumn mornings, casual brunches, or an afternoon snack, this dessert offers comforting flavors and an inviting aroma that brings people together.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Coffee cakes have deep roots in European traditions, especially in Germany and Scandinavia, where fruit- and spice-based cakes were often enjoyed alongside coffee. Though not containing actual coffee, these cakes are designed to pair well with it. The American version adapted the concept, often adding sour cream for moisture and using a streusel topping. This apple-cinnamon variation reflects the harvest season and the nostalgic flavors of fall.
Ingredients
Filling/Topping
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- A pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
Cake
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1/2 cup sour cream, at room temperature
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons milk, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored, and finely chopped
Optional Additions
- 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
- A dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze for topping
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger or cloves for extra spice
- A handful of raisins or dried cranberries for a twist
Tips for Success
- Make sure all wet ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Use a tart apple like Granny Smith to balance the sweetness.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined to keep the cake tender.
- Grease and flour your pan properly to prevent sticking.
- Let the cake rest for at least 15 minutes before cutting to keep it from crumbling.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, melted butter, sour cream, eggs, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped apple.
- Pour half the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
- Add the remaining batter, then sprinkle the rest of the topping evenly.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Description
This cake boasts a soft, moist crumb with pockets of cinnamon-sugar and juicy apple throughout. The top forms a beautiful, golden layer with slight crispiness from the sugar topping. The aroma of baked cinnamon and apples fills the room, making it irresistibly inviting.
Nutritional Information** (approx. per slice, based on 9 slices)
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugar: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 170mg
Note: Optional additions will alter these values.
Conclusion
This Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake delivers warmth, sweetness, and a comforting bite that’s perfect for gatherings or a quiet cup of coffee. The simple ingredients come together in a cake that tastes far more complex than the effort it takes to make it.
Recommendation
Enjoy it freshly baked or warmed the next day. Pair it with coffee, chai, or hot apple cider for a cozy experience. For an elegant finish, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with vanilla glaze.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This coffee cake strikes a satisfying balance between indulgence and wholesome ingredients like apples and sour cream. Want to lighten it up? Try reducing the sugar slightly or swapping half the flour for whole wheat. Even small adjustments can make a difference without compromising flavor.
Let me know if you’d like a printable version or want to adapt it to be gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan!