Are you ready to whip up a treat that impresses? This Delicious Apple Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Filling is just what you need. Imagine a soft, cinnamon-spiced cake filled with creamy goodness and chunks of fresh apples. Whether you’re sharing it at brunch or enjoying a slice with coffee, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get baking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of sweet apples and creamy filling creates a delightful taste that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Easy to Make: This cake comes together quickly, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
- Perfect for Any Time: Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this coffee cake fits perfectly into any part of your day.
- Customizable: You can easily add your favorite nuts or spices to make it your own!
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make this tasty apple coffee cake. Gather these simple items for a delightful treat.
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– ¼ cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
– ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)
– Additional cinnamon sugar for dusting
Using fresh apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp makes a big difference. They add a nice tartness. The cream cheese filling gives this cake its unique twist. It creates a smooth, creamy layer that pairs perfectly with the apples.
For the best results, measure your ingredients accurately. This ensures your cake rises perfectly and bakes evenly. When mixing, be sure to not overmix the batter. Overmixing can make the cake tough.Enjoy baking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing Ingredients
1. Preheat the oven & grease the pan: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This helps the cake come out easily.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon salt
Set this mixture aside for later.
Preparing the Batter
3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat:
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Mix until the mixture is light and creamy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add eggs and vanilla: Now, add 2 large eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Combining Ingredients
5. Mix wet and dry ingredients: Alternately add the prepared dry ingredients and 1 cup of buttermilk to the butter mixture. Start and end with the flour mix. Mix until just combined.
6. Fold in diced apples: Gently fold in 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced. This adds great flavor and texture to your cake.
7. Prepare cream cheese filling: In a separate bowl, mix:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– ¼ cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the filling)
Blend until smooth and creamy.
Baking the Cake
8. Layer the batter and filling: Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Spread it evenly. Spoon the cream cheese filling over the batter, leaving some space around the edges. Top with the remaining batter and smooth it out gently.
9. Add topping and bake: If you want, sprinkle ½ cup chopped nuts and some cinnamon sugar on top. Bake in the oven for about 40-45 minutes. You know it’s done when a toothpick comes out clean.
10. Cooling instructions: Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious apple coffee cake with cream cheese filling!
Pro Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor and texture, opt for firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp which hold their shape during baking.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smoother batter and filling, which will help them blend more easily.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. This helps the flavors to meld and makes for cleaner slices.
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
– To get the perfect texture, follow the recipe closely. Use room temperature ingredients. This helps the batter mix well.
– For even baking, rotate your pan halfway through. Ovens can have hot spots. Check the cake with a toothpick. It should come out clean.
Serving Suggestions
– Serve the cake warm or at room temperature. It tastes great either way.
– Pair it with coffee or tea. The flavors of the cake mix well with these drinks.
Presentation Tips
– Dust the top with powdered sugar before serving. This adds a nice touch.
– For a rustic look, serve slices on a wooden board. It makes your table feel warm and inviting.
This cake is not just a treat; it’s a delight to share with friends and family.Enjoy your baking!
Variations
Fruit Variations
You can switch up the apples in this recipe. Try using pears for a sweet twist. Berries like blueberries or raspberries also work well. You can mix and match fruits based on the season. In fall, use apples and pears together. In summer, fresh berries can bring a nice touch to the cake.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend. This will help keep the cake light and fluffy. For a dairy-free version, swap the buttermilk with almond milk or coconut milk. You can also use dairy-free cream cheese for the filling. These changes let everyone enjoy this tasty treat.
Flavor Enhancements
Adding spices can really enhance the flavors. Nutmeg and cloves pair well with apples. Just a dash of each can elevate your cake. You can also play with toppings. Try adding a crumble made of oats and brown sugar. This adds texture and a crunchy layer. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite combination.
Storage Info
Short-term Storage
To store your apple coffee cake at room temperature, wrap it in plastic wrap. This keeps it moist and fresh. You can also place it in an airtight container. If your kitchen is warm, you should refrigerate the cake. Refrigerating helps it last longer and prevents spoilage.
Long-term Storage
For long-term storage, freezing is a great option. Wrap slices in plastic wrap and then in foil. This keeps the cake safe from freezer burn. You can store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you are ready to enjoy it, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight. To rewarm, place slices in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds. You can also heat it in a toaster oven at a low setting.
Shelf Life
This cake stays fresh for about three days at room temperature. If you store it in the fridge, it lasts about a week. Always check for signs of spoilage. Look for mold or an off smell. If the cake feels dry or hard, it’s time to toss it. Enjoy your delicious apple coffee cake with cream cheese filling while it’s fresh!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, you can use any apple you like. I love Granny Smith for tartness. Honeycrisp adds sweetness and crunch. Mix different apples for added flavor.
How can I make this cake in advance?
You can prepare the batter and filling a day ahead. Store them in the fridge in airtight containers. Bake the cake when you’re ready.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, mix one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for five minutes before using.
Is it possible to make this recipe without eggs?
Yes! You can use applesauce or a flaxseed mixture as an egg substitute. Use ¼ cup applesauce for each egg. For flaxseed, mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water.
Can I make the cream cheese filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the cream cheese filling a day in advance. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
What’s the best way to cut and serve the cake?
Use a sharp knife to cut the cake into squares. Clean the knife between cuts for neat slices. Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar on top.This cake is a blend of sweet apples and rich cream cheese. Here are the key ingredients and steps to help you get started:
Key Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– ¼ cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
– ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)
– Additional cinnamon sugar for dusting
Quick Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
3. Mix dry ingredients in a bowl.
4. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
5. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
6. Combine wet and dry ingredients with buttermilk.
7. Fold in diced apples.
8. Mix cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla for the filling.
9. Layer batter and filling in the pan.
10. Top with nuts and cinnamon sugar if you wish.
11. Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown.
This recipe is simple yet rewarding. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and everyone will love the warm, spiced flavors. Enjoy your baking!
This blog post walks you through making a tasty apple coffee cake. You learned about the key ingredients, easy steps, and helpful tips. Baking can be simple and fun with this recipe. Remember to try different fruits or flavors for variety. You can also adjust the cake for dietary needs. Store it properly to keep it fresh longer. Enjoy your delicious coffee cake with a warm drink. Happy baking!
