Are you craving a warm, comforting treat that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious? Look no further! This Apple Coffee Cake with Sour Cream is the perfect recipe for satisfying your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a simple yet elegant dessert, ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up. The moist crumb, the sweet apples, and the tangy sour cream create a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. This easy recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and experienced cooks alike, making it a versatile addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
For the Crumble Topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This ensures your cake releases easily and prevents sticking.
Make the Cake Batter:
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This step ensures even distribution of leavening agents for a light and fluffy cake.
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In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is best achieved using an electric mixer, but it's doable by hand if you have the patience!
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract. The sour cream adds incredible moisture and a subtle tang.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
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Gently fold in the diced apples.
Prepare and Add the Crumble Topping:
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In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the crumble topping.
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Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the batter in the prepared pan.
Bake and Cool:
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Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.
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Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the cake to set and prevents it from crumbling when you cut into it.
Tips for the Best Apple Coffee Cake:
- Use a combination of apple varieties for a complex flavor profile.
- Don't overmix the batter, as this can lead to a tough cake.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, bake for a few extra minutes.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Variations:
- Spiced Apple Coffee Cake: Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger to the batter and topping for a warm, aromatic twist.
- Nutty Apple Coffee Cake: Add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Streusel Topping Variation: Experiment with different types of sugars, like turbinado or coconut sugar, for variations in flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients used and serving size. It's best to use a nutrition calculator for a precise analysis once you have your specific ingredient measurements. Generally, expect this coffee cake to be relatively high in carbohydrates, fats, and calories, making it an occasional treat rather than a daily food staple.
This Apple Coffee Cake with Sour Cream is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious aromas filling your kitchen and the satisfaction of creating a truly homemade masterpiece. This quick dinner alternative provides a wonderful change of pace and makes a delightful healthy meal addition to any week. Happy baking!