Apple Crisp Coffee Cake
Equipment
- A large mixing bowl for the cake batter
- A smaller bowl for the topping mixture
- A whisk for combining dry ingredients
- A hand mixer (or stand mixer) for mixing the batter
Ingredients
- Choosing the right apple variety is crucial for a perfect apple filling. Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best for baking because they retain their shape and offer a slight tanginess that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cake. Fuji apples are another great option adding a bit more sweetness without sacrificing texture.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Apples
- Start by peeling, coring, and slicing your apples into thin wedges or chunks. Uniform pieces ensure that the apples bake evenly within the cake. Toss the sliced apples with a little cinnamon and sugar to enhance their flavor. Set them aside while you prepare the rest of the cake.
- Step 2: Make the Crisp Topping
- In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture becomes a crumbly texture. This will form the crispy topping that will provide a delightful crunch to the cake.
- Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the cake.
- Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Grease your 9-inch baking pan, then spread half of the cake batter evenly at the bottom. Layer the cinnamon-sugared apples on top, then gently spread the remaining batter over the apples. Finally, sprinkle the prepared crisp topping over the entire surface of the cake.
- Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake in the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown. If the topping is getting too dark before the cake is fully cooked, you can tent it with foil to prevent burning.
Notes
Tips for a Perfect Apple Crisp Coffee Cake
Here are some expert tips to help you perfect your Apple Crisp Coffee Cake every time:
Choosing the Right Apple Variety
As mentioned, selecting the right apples is key to getting the best flavor and texture. Granny Smith apples offer a tart bite that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet cake. Honeycrisp apples, known for their juiciness and crisp texture, add a nice sweetness that balances out the other ingredients. If you enjoy a more varied flavor profile, feel free to use a mix of different apple types.
Topping Variations
If you're in the mood to experiment, you can add a variety of ingredients to the crisp topping. Try incorporating nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch. For a heartier topping, add some rolled oats. These additions will elevate the texture and flavor of the cake, making it even more indulgent.