Ingredients
FLOUR & LEAVENING AGENTS
The foundation of any baked good, including our Apple Coffee Cake Recipe, is built upon a combination of ingredients that provide structure, texture, and flavor.
One of the primary ingredients in this category is flour. Flour serves as the main structural component of baked goods, providing elasticity, strength, and texture. When it comes to baking, there are several types of flour available, each with its own unique characteristics and uses.
All-purpose flour is a versatile option suitable for a wide range of baked goods. It contains a balanced mix of protein, starches, and other components that make it an ideal choice for recipes like our Apple Coffee Cake. However, all-purpose flour can also lead to a less tender crumb if overmixed or overbaked.
Unbleached all-purpose flour is another option that offers similar properties to its bleached counterpart but may retain more of the natural nutrients found in wheat.
Cake flour has a lower protein content than all-purpose flour, making it ideal for delicate baked goods where structure and rise are less crucial. Cake flour can add tenderness and a fine texture to our Apple Coffee Cake Recipe but might require additional leavening agents to ensure adequate rise.
Self-raising flour is another type of flour that already contains added baking powder and salt. However, it may not be the best choice for this recipe as its leavening properties can sometimes interfere with other ingredients in the mixture.
Beyond flour, leavening agents play a vital role in expanding or lightening our baked goods. Leavening agents work by producing gases that get trapped within the batter or dough, causing it to rise. The most common types of leavening agents used are baking powder and baking soda.
Baking powder is a mixture of baking soda and an acid (usually cream of tartar) with a starch added to prevent the reaction from occurring too quickly. When you add liquid to the recipe, the starch breaks down, releasing carbon dioxide gas and causing the dough or batter to rise.
However, there are two types of baking powder: single-acting and double-acting. Single-acting baking powder releases its carbon dioxide in a single reaction, while double-acting baking powder releases it in two reactions – one when mixed with liquid and another when exposed to heat.
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) works as an acid neutralizer but only in the presence of an acidic ingredient. When you combine baking soda with an acidic component like buttermilk or yogurt, the reaction produces carbon dioxide gas that causes your Apple Coffee Cake Recipe to rise.
2 cups allpurpose flour
All-purpose flour serves as a crucial ingredient in baking, providing structure and texture to various sweet treats like the Apple Coffee Cake recipe.
The 2 cups of all-purpose flour specified for this particular recipe are used to create a harmonious balance between ingredients that contribute to its unique characteristics.
When working with all-purpose flour, it is essential to consider factors such as the type of flour and its moisture content. All-purpose flour typically contains a moderate level of protein (around 10-12%), which allows for both delicate textures in baked goods like cakes, and robust structures required for bread making.
The presence of 2 cups of all-purpose flour is also pivotal in maintaining a perfect balance between the crumb texture and density of the Apple Coffee Cake. This is because all-purpose flour provides strength to the dough without imparting an unpleasant flavor or aroma that could alter the taste profile of the final product.
In addition, this ingredient is responsible for creating an intricate network of strands throughout the cake, enabling it to retain moisture effectively and resist crumbling during consumption.
It’s worth noting that substituting all-purpose flour with other types like bread flour or cake flour may alter the overall texture, consistency, or flavor profile of the Apple Coffee Cake. This substitution could lead to an undesirable change in the taste, aroma, or visual appearance of the final product.
To achieve optimal results with this recipe, it is recommended to use all-purpose flour as specified. Any deviations from this specification may result in compromised quality and texture of the finished coffee cake.
1 tsp baking powder
The ingredients required for our Apple Coffee Cake Recipe include a variety of sweet and savory elements that come together to create a delicious and indulgent treat.
Baking Powder
One teaspoon of baking powder is an essential ingredient in this recipe, serving as a leavening agent that helps the coffee cake rise and gives it a light and fluffy texture.
- The primary function of baking powder is to release carbon dioxide gas bubbles when it comes into contact with liquid ingredients and heat.
- This process helps to create air pockets in the batter, causing the coffee cake to expand and giving it a lighter consistency.
Baking powder is typically made from a combination of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and an acid (such as cream of tartar), which are mixed with an anti-caking agent to prevent clumping.
Other Ingredients
The remaining ingredients in our Apple Coffee Cake Recipe include:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups sliced apples (such as Granny Smith or Gala)
These ingredients come together to create a moist and flavorful coffee cake that is perfect for serving at breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack.
0.5 tsp salt
In this Apple Coffee Cake Recipe, we’ll be focusing on one key ingredient: 0.5 tsp salt.
Salt serves as a crucial component in balancing flavors and textures within the recipe. When working with sweet ingredients like sugar and apples, salt helps to counteract their sweetness by introducing a savory note.
The use of 0.5 tsp salt may seem insignificant compared to other ingredients like flour or sugar, but its subtle presence has a profound impact on the overall taste experience. Salt enhances flavors, reduces bitterness, and even affects texture.
When selecting a salt for this recipe, consider using a fine-grained sea salt or kosher salt. These types of salts tend to dissolve more evenly and provide a cleaner flavor compared to other varieties.
The key to incorporating 0.5 tsp salt effectively lies in its distribution throughout the batter. Make sure to fold it into the dry ingredients carefully, ensuring an even dispersion of flavors.
In terms of alternatives or substitutions, you may consider using Himalayan pink salt or flaky sea salt if that’s what you have on hand. However, keep in mind that these options might alter the flavor profile slightly due to their distinct mineral compositions and textures.
Remember, when working with salt, it’s essential to taste as you go. If needed, adjust the amount of salt accordingly to suit your personal preference. This will help achieve a harmonious balance between sweet and savory flavors in your Apple Coffee Cake.
TREATMENTS & FLAVORINGS:
0.25 cup granulated sugar
To enhance the flavor and aroma of the Apple Coffee Cake, several treatments and flavorings can be added to the batter and streusel topping.
Treatments
Buttermilk: Adding buttermilk instead of regular milk will give the coffee cake a tangy flavor and tenderness due to the acidity in the buttermilk.
Vanilla Extract: Using high-quality vanilla extract will enhance the overall flavor profile of the coffee cake with its sweet, creamy notes.
Flavorings
Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a classic spice that pairs well with apples and adds warmth to the coffee cake. It can be sprinkled on top of the streusel topping for extra flavor.
Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg adds depth and warmth to the coffee cake, complementing the sweetness of the sugar and the tartness of the apples.
Granulated Sugar
The 0.25 cup of granulated sugar in the recipe serves multiple purposes: it provides sweetness, browning, and tenderness to the coffee cake. The sugar will caramelize during baking, creating a crunchy streusel topping and a sweet flavor throughout the cake.
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
The treatments and flavorings used in the Apple Coffee Cake recipe play a crucial role in enhancing the overall taste, aroma, and texture of the final product.
The following ingredients are used for treatments and flavorings:
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
The treatments include:
- Brown sugar: adds a rich, caramel-like flavor and helps to balance the sweetness of the apples.
- Cinnamon: provides a warm, spicy flavor that complements the apple and sweet flavors in the coffee cake.
- Nutmeg: adds a subtle, slightly bitter flavor that enhances the overall depth of the coffee cake.
- Salt: helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients and balances the sweetness of the sugar.
For the best results, make sure to use fresh, high-quality spices. Old or low-quality spices can result in a lackluster flavor that doesn’t complement the other ingredients in the recipe.
In addition to these treatments and flavorings, you may also consider adding other ingredients such as chopped nuts, dried fruit, or citrus zest to give your coffee cake an extra boost of flavor and texture.
0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
TREATMENTS & FLAVORINGS:
Incorporating various treatments and flavorings can elevate the taste and aroma of your Apple Coffee Cake. Here are some suggestions to consider:
Butter Treatments:
- Softened Unsalted Butter: Use 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened to a creamy consistency. This will help create a moist and tender crumb in your coffee cake.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg Flavorings:
- Ground Cinnamon: Add 1-2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon to the dry ingredients for an added depth of flavor. This warm spice will complement the sweetness of the apples.
- Ground Nutmeg: Use a pinch of ground nutmeg (about 1/8 teaspoon) to add a subtle warmth and depth to your coffee cake. Be careful not to overdo it, as nutmeg can quickly become overpowering.
Sugar and Spice Mix-ins:
- Granulated Sugar: Sprinkle a pinch of granulated sugar on top of the coffee cake before baking to create a sweet, caramelized crust.
- Chopped Nuts or Seeds: Mix in chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work well) or seeds (such as sesame or sunflower) for added texture and flavor. Choose your favorite combination to suit your taste preferences.
Apple Cider and Vanilla Enhancements:
- Apple Cider Glaze: Drizzle a sweet apple cider glaze over the coffee cake after it has cooled for an extra burst of flavor. Mix equal parts powdered sugar, apple cider, and melted butter to create this delicious topping.
- Vanilla Extract: Add a teaspoon or two of pure vanilla extract to enhance the overall flavor of your coffee cake. This will add a creamy, sweet depth that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
By incorporating these treatments and flavorings into your Apple Coffee Cake Recipe, you’ll create a rich, deliciously aromatic dessert that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
2 large eggs
The addition of flavorings to baked goods such as apple coffee cake is a crucial aspect that can elevate its taste and aroma. Flavourings play a significant role in enhancing the overall sensory experience, particularly when it comes to sweet treats like this recipe.
In general, flavourings can be categorized into two main groups: natural flavourings and artificial flavourings. Natural flavourings are derived from plant-based sources such as fruits, herbs, spices, and essential oils. They offer a more authentic taste compared to their synthetic counterparts, making them an ideal choice for many bakers.
On the other hand, artificial flavourings are synthesized in laboratories using chemicals that mimic the taste and aroma of specific ingredients. These often lack the depth and complexity found in natural flavourings but can still provide a pleasing taste experience.
The 2 large eggs in this recipe contribute significantly to its texture as well as flavour. Eggs serve multiple purposes, including binding agents and moisture providers. The protein present in egg whites helps bind other ingredients together effectively, resulting in a cohesive crumb structure that is desirable in baked goods.
In the context of this apple coffee cake recipe, eggs act as a source of leavening, helping to create lightness within the mixture. As the mixture bakes, air bubbles formed from egg proteins expand and contract, creating tiny pockets that contribute to its characteristic texture.
Flavourwise, the addition of eggs can have both positive and negative effects depending on individual perspectives. Some people appreciate the richness and creaminess introduced by eggs, while others may perceive them as adding unnecessary fat or calories.
The interplay between various ingredients in a recipe like this apple coffee cake is what creates a balanced flavour profile that appeals to many people’s taste buds. The use of natural flavorings such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla can complement the sweetness from sugar and apples perfectly, resulting in a delicious treat that is both visually appealing and satisfying.
As with any recipe, adjustments and substitutions may be necessary based on personal preferences or dietary requirements. However, one constant remains true: high-quality ingredients play an essential role in creating exceptional taste experiences. Therefore, using fresh eggs from reputable sources can significantly enhance the overall quality of this apple coffee cake.
Ultimately, treating flavorings as a vital component that elevates baked goods like this apple coffee cake is crucial to achieving success in home baking and beyond. By experimenting with different natural and artificial flavorings, as well as ingredients such as eggs, individuals can develop their own unique recipes that cater to diverse tastes while maintaining the quality we all desire.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
The art of adding flavor to baked goods like our beloved Apple Coffee Cake Recipe lies in understanding the roles and applications of different treatments and flavorings.
Treatments refer to the processes used to alter or enhance the properties of ingredients, while flavorings are substances added to create a specific taste or aroma. In the context of our Apple Coffee Cake Recipe, treatments and flavorings work together in perfect harmony to create a mouth-watering treat.
One common treatment used in baking is the addition of spices, which can enhance the flavors of other ingredients and add depth to a dish. For example, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger are commonly used in baked goods like our Apple Coffee Cake Recipe to create a warm and inviting aroma.
When it comes to adding flavor, extracts are a popular choice for their ability to provide intense flavors without added calories. A classic example of an extract is vanilla extract, which is made from the seeds of the vanilla orchid. In our Apple Coffee Cake Recipe, using 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract will add a subtle and creamy flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples.
The art of combining treatments and flavorings lies in striking the right balance between them. Too much of one or two elements can overpower the other flavors in a dish, while not enough may result in a lackluster taste experience. To avoid this, it’s essential to understand how each treatment and flavoring interacts with others.
In the case of our Apple Coffee Cake Recipe, the combination of treatments like sugar and cinnamon, and flavorings like vanilla extract, creates a delightful balance that will satisfy your taste buds. By mastering these elements, you’ll be able to create mouth-watering baked goods that leave everyone wanting more.
So next time you’re in the kitchen baking, remember that treatments and flavorings are not mutually exclusive, but rather complementary forces working together to elevate your creations to new heights. Experiment with different combinations of spices and extracts like cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract to create unique flavor profiles that will leave a lasting impression.
0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
The Apple Coffee Cake Recipe is a delicious breakfast or brunch treat that combines the warmth of spices with the sweetness of apples and the crunch of nuts. To enhance the flavor and aroma of this recipe, several treatments and flavorings can be employed.
Treatments
- Vanilla Extract: Add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter for an extra boost of sweetness and a hint of creaminess.
- Cinnamon Sugar: Mix equal parts cinnamon and granulated sugar (about 0.5 tsp each) in a small bowl and sprinkle over the apple topping before baking for an added crunchy, sweet flavor combination.
Flavorings
- Nutmeg: Add 0.25 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg to the batter for its warm, slightly sweet, and aromatic flavors that complement apples perfectly.
- Ginger Powder: Mix 0.125 teaspoon of ground ginger powder into the batter to introduce a hint of spiciness and warmth without overpowering the apple flavor.
Additional Options
- Dried Fruits: Cranberries, raisins, or cherries can be added to the batter for added sweetness and texture. Start with 1 tablespoon and adjust according to taste.
- Nuts: Walnuts, pecans, or almonds can be added on top of the apple mixture before baking for added crunch and nutty flavor.
0.25 tsp ground nutmeg
The treatment and flavoring of the ingredients in an apple coffee cake recipe involves a variety of components that come together to create a delicious and aromatic dessert.
TREATMENTS:
- Grating the carrots and apples adds texture and fiber to the cake, while also releasing their natural sweetness.
- Mixing in brown sugar and granulated sugar provides a balance of molasses flavor and sweetness that complements the apple and carrot flavors.
FLAVORINGS:
- Cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the cake, balancing out the sweetness of the apples and carrots.
- Ground nutmeg, in a small amount such as 0.25 tsp, provides a subtle warm and aromatic flavor that complements the cinnamon.
The combination of these treatments and flavorings creates a deliciously balanced and aromatic apple coffee cake recipe that is perfect for breakfast or brunch.
ASSEMBLY & COOKING
0.5 cup chopped walnuts
To make the assembly and cooking process for this apple coffee cake recipe, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C).
Next, prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or cooking spray. This will ensure that the cake releases easily from the pan after it’s been cooked.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 cup of granulated sugar until well combined.
Now, add in 1/2 cup of unsalted butter that has been softened to room temperature. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream the butter with the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Add in 2 large eggs, one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Beat the mixture for about 1 minute after the last egg has been added.
Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
In another bowl, peel and slice 3 apples into thin wedges. You can use any variety of apple you like, but Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work particularly well for this recipe.
Add the chopped walnuts to the batter mixture and fold them in gently until they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Then, arrange half of the batter mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with a layer of apple slices, followed by another half of the remaining batter mixture.
Finally, sprinkle 0.5 cup of chopped walnuts on top of the cake before baking it in the preheated oven for approximately 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
0.5 cup raisins (or other dried fruits)
The first step in making an Apple Coffee Cake Recipe is to prepare the ingredients, which includes:
- 0.5 cup raisins (or other dried fruits) – These can be replaced with other types of dried fruits such as cranberries, cherries, or apricots
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups diced apples (about 4 medium-sized apples)
Next, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Now it’s time to assemble the coffee cake:
- Prepare the topping: Mix together 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon in a small bowl. Add 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter to the dry mixture and use your fingers or a pastry blender to work it into the mixture until crumbly.
- Prepare the filling: Mix together the raisins, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using) in a small bowl. Add 1/2 cup chopped fresh apple and mix well.
- Layer the ingredients in the prepared baking dish:
In order to layer the coffee cake correctly you can follow these steps:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and baking powder. Add the softened butter and use an electric mixer to cream it into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the filling mixture over the batter. The filling layer can be quite thick, so use your hands or a spatula to evenly distribute it over the cake.
- Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter onto the filling layer and spread them out with a spatula to cover the top of the coffee cake.
Top the coffee cake with the crumbly topping mixture, spreading it evenly over the top.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the coffee cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
1/4 cup apple cider glaze (see note below)
To prepare the ASSEMBLY & COOKING:, you will need to start by preparing the ingredients for the apple coffee cake recipe.
The following are the necessary ingredients and equipment for this process:
- 1 (8-ounce) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 4 cups mixed fresh berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- Apple cider glaze (see note below)
The following equipment is needed for this process:
- Mixer
- Bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Silicone spatula
The process of ASSEMBLY & COOKING: can be broken down into the following steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Cider Glaze (Note below)
Mix together 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons apple cider, and 1 tablespoon butter in a bowl until smooth. Add more apple cider or powdered sugar as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Step 2: Prepare the Coffee Cake Batter
In a mixer, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy. Add the granulated sugar and mix until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Assemble the Coffee Cake
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 4: Add the Topping and Fruit
Pour the batter into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the mixed fresh berries on top of the batter, followed by the chopped nuts (if using). Drizzle with the apple cider glaze.
Step 5: Bake the Coffee Cake
Bake the coffee cake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
To begin with, preheating the oven to the correct temperature is a crucial step in baking an apple coffee cake. The ideal temperature for baking this delicious treat is 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the cake cooks evenly and at a moderate pace.
Firstly, ensure that your oven is set to the right mode – convection or conventional, whichever your recipe recommends. Preheating takes some time, so it’s essential to plan ahead and start this process about 15-20 minutes before you intend to put the cake in the oven.
Next, verify that your oven has reached the correct temperature by checking with an oven thermometer. This is a small device that can be placed inside the oven to measure its internal temperature. If the oven isn’t at the right temperature, it may affect the texture and quality of your coffee cake.
Once you’ve confirmed that your oven is preheated, proceed to prepare the ingredients for your apple coffee cake recipe. This includes mixing together the flour, sugar, eggs, butter or oil, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Make sure to measure each ingredient accurately to ensure the right balance of flavors in your final product.
As you mix the wet and dry ingredients separately, remember to reserve some of the sugar for later use as a topping. This will give your coffee cake an extra layer of sweetness and texture.
After combining the wet and dry ingredients, gently fold in the chopped apples and any additional toppings like nuts or dried fruit. Be gentle when mixing to avoid breaking down the delicate texture of the apples.
Now that everything is mixed together, pour the batter into a greased and floured baking dish or cake pan. Make sure it’s the right size for your oven, as this will affect the even cooking of your coffee cake.
Finally, sprinkle some sugar on top of the batter before placing it in the oven. This will add a delicious caramelized crust to the outside of your apple coffee cake.
Place the baking dish or cake pan into the preheated oven and let it cook for about 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it as it cooks, as every oven is different, and you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Once your coffee cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy the delicious aroma and taste of your freshly baked apple coffee cake!
Grease a 9x13inch baking dish and line with parchment paper
- To prepare the baking dish for the apple coffee cake, start by greasing a 9×13-inch pan evenly to prevent the cake from sticking to it.
- This can be done using any non-stick cooking spray or a small amount of butter or oil applied directly to the surface of the baking dish.
- Once the baking dish is sufficiently greased, take a sheet of parchment paper and cut it to fit the size of the dish.
- Place the parchment paper over the greased surface of the baking dish, making sure to cover it evenly and ensure that there are no wrinkles or creases that could interfere with the smooth release of the cake.
- The parchment paper will serve as a non-stick barrier between the cake mixture and the baking dish, making it easier to remove the coffee cake once it’s baked and cooled.
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