Bakery Style Cinnamon Apple Coffee Cake Delight

If you crave a warm, comforting treat, Bakery Style Cinnamon Apple Coffee Cake Delight is for you! This moist coffee cake is packed with tart Granny Smith apples and a swirl of cinnamon sugar. You can whip it up right in your kitchen, impressing family and friends alike. Follow along for a step-by-step guide to create this bakery favorite, complete with tips and variations for your perfect bite!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fruit Addition
– 2 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Cinnamon Swirl and Topping Ingredients
– ½ cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
This coffee cake is a joy to bake. The mix of flavors and textures makes it a delight. You start with dry ingredients. They include flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This blend gives the cake its light and fluffy texture.
Next, you have the wet ingredients. The butter must be soft for easy mixing. Eggs add richness, while sour cream makes it moist. Vanilla brings warmth and depth.
The fruit is a key part. Granny Smith apples add a tart bite. The lemon juice keeps them fresh and bright.
Finally, the cinnamon swirl and topping bring sweetness. Brown sugar and cinnamon create a warm flavor. If you like, add walnuts or pecans for crunch.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to create a beautiful coffee cake!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan, or use parchment paper for easier removal.
– In a large bowl, whisk together:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Mixing the Batter
– In another bowl, beat ½ cup softened butter with an electric mixer for one minute.
– Add 3 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
– Mix in 1 cup sour cream and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
Combining Ingredients
– Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients.
– Mix just until combined. Do not over mix.
– Gently fold in:
– 2 cups diced Granny Smith apples
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Assembling the Cake
– Pour half of the batter into the pan.
– Sprinkle half of the cinnamon topping over the batter.
– Layer the remaining batter on top.
– Add the rest of the cinnamon mixture on top.
– Use a knife to swirl the batter for a marbled effect.
Baking
– Bake the coffee cake for 45-50 minutes.
– Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center.
– It’s done when the toothpick comes out clean.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Bakery-Style Texture
To get the perfect texture, measure your ingredients carefully. Use measuring cups for dry and wet items. This gives you the right balance. If you add too much flour or sugar, the cake can turn out dry. Another key point is to avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until the dry ingredients blend in. Overmixing can make the cake tough. It’s like a dance; mix gently and let the batter flow.
Presentation Tips
Once your cake cools, dust it with powdered sugar. This adds a lovely touch. A light sprinkle makes it look like a bakery treat. For the best experience, serve it warm. Pair it with coffee or tea. The warm cake and hot drink create a cozy moment. You can also cut it into squares for a nice presentation.
Baking Equipment
For this recipe, a 9×13 inch baking pan works best. You can grease it or use parchment paper. Parchment makes the cake easy to lift out. If you have a stand mixer, use it to beat the butter and eggs. It saves time and does a great job. Mixing by hand works too; just be careful not to overmix. Having the right tools makes your baking more fun and easy!
Variations
Different Fruits
You can switch up the apples for other types. Honeycrisp or Fuji apples add a sweet twist. If you prefer tart, use Granny Smith as the recipe suggests. You can also include berries like blueberries or raspberries. They add a burst of flavor and color.
Dietary Substitutions
For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum for the best texture. If you want dairy-free options, substitute the sour cream with almond or coconut yogurt. Use vegan butter instead of regular butter for a dairy-free cake.
Flavor Enhancements
Add spices like nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth. A pinch of ginger can also uplift the cake. If you love nuts, try different toppings. Chopped almonds or hazelnuts can give a unique crunch. These simple changes make your coffee cake special and exciting.
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To keep your Bakery Style Cinnamon Apple Coffee Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps prevent it from drying out. At room temperature, the cake lasts about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it. In the fridge, it can stay good for up to a week.
Long-Term Storage
For long-term storage, you can freeze the coffee cake. First, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This double layer keeps the cake moist and safe from freezer burn. It will stay fresh for about 2 to 3 months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best taste.
Reheating Tips
To reheat your coffee cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake in the oven for about 10 to 15 minutes. If you want to keep it moist, cover it with foil while reheating. You can also microwave a slice for about 20 to 30 seconds. Just make sure not to overheat it, or it may dry out. Enjoy your cake warm for the best experience!
FAQs
Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this coffee cake ahead of time. To do this, follow these tips:
– Bake the cake and let it cool completely.
– Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
– Store it in the fridge for up to three days.
– You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap it well.
– To serve, let it thaw in the fridge overnight.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you need a substitute for sour cream, try these options:
– Plain yogurt works well for a similar taste.
– Buttermilk can also add moisture and tang.
– You can mix cream cheese with a little milk to mimic sour cream.
Each of these options will keep the texture creamy and delicious.
How do I know when the coffee cake is done?
You can tell the coffee cake is done by looking for these signs:
– The edges will pull away from the pan.
– The top will be lightly golden and spring back when touched.
– Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready.
Check it around 45 minutes of baking time to avoid overcooking.
Can I make a smaller batch of this recipe?
Yes, you can make a smaller batch. Here’s how:
– Cut all ingredient amounts in half.
– Use an 8×8 inch pan instead of a 9×13 inch pan.
– Adjust the baking time to about 30-35 minutes.
– Check for doneness using the toothpick method mentioned earlier.
This way, you can enjoy a smaller portion without waste!
This blog post covers everything you need to bake a delicious apple cinnamon coffee cake. You learned the key ingredients, how to mix and bake, and tips for perfect results. With some practice, you can achieve a bakery-style texture right at home. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors or different fruits. Follow the storage tips to enjoy your cake longer. Happy baking!
