Indulge in a Sweet and Tangy Apple Butter Coffee Cake
Friends, gather round and let me tell you about a coffee cake that will change your life. Imagine, if you will, a buttery crumb cake infused with the warm spices of apple pie, topped with a sweet and crunchy streusel made from the finest apple butter. Can you smell it? Can you taste it? That’s right – this is no ordinary coffee cake. This is a divine creation that will leave you weak in the knees and crying out for more.
But wait, there’s more! Not only is this easy apple butter crumb cake a treat for your taste buds, it also boasts the health benefits of wheat germ, boasting vital nutrients to nourish your body as well as your soul. And what could be better than starting your morning with a steaming cup of rich butter coffee, paired perfectly with this apple butter coffee cake? You can thank me later.
Now friends, I know some of you may be thinking, “But Maya Angelou, I don’t have any apple butter!” Fear not – this recipe is flexible and forgiving. You can use whatever variety of fruit butter you have on hand or even substitute applesauce in a pinch. Trust me, it will still be delicious.
So go ahead, grab your apron and get ready to channel your inner barista as we embark on this delectable journey together. You won’t regret it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Looking for a delicious and comforting treat to enjoy with your coffee? Look no further than this incredible Apple Butter Coffee Cake recipe! The combination of rich, buttery cake and sweet, spiced apple butter is simply irresistible. Trust me – you’re going to love this recipe!
One of my favourite things about this coffee cake is how easy it is to make. With just a few simple ingredients (many of which you likely already have in your pantry), you can whip up a delicious treat that will impress your friends and family. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just getting started, you won’t have any trouble creating this delicious cake.
Another thing I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary restrictions. For example, if you’re watching your sugar intake, you can use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar. Or, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try substituting almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix.
But perhaps the best thing about this coffee cake is the incredible flavour. The apple butter adds a touch of sweetness and warmth that perfectly complements the rich, buttery cake. And with the addition of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, every bite is full of warm autumn flavours.
In short, there are so many reasons why you’re going to love this Apple Butter Coffee Cake recipe. From its simplicity to its customizability to its incredible flavour, it’s the perfect treat to enjoy alongside your morning coffee or as an afternoon snack. So what are you waiting for? Get baking today!
Ingredient List
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tbsp apple pie spice or pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup apple butter
For the Crumb Topping:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon + a pinch of nutmeg (ground)
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 tbsp (3/4 stick) cold, unsalted butter, diced
Notes on Ingredients:
The recipe for this Apple Butter Coffee Cake is pretty easy and it doesn’t require any hard-to-find ingredients. To make it, you’ll need the usual suspects like flour, baking powder and baking soda, but also a few other things that will enhance the flavor of the cake: unsalted butter, granulated sugar, an egg and a bit of milk.
As its name implies, this recipe relies heavily on one ingredient: apple butter. The fruity-concentrate gives the crumb cake a distinct oomph and is responsible for most of its sweetness. Apple butter is made from cooked-down apples with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. It’s typically spread on toast as an alternative to jams and jellies or used in desserts to add flavor and moisture.
To make the crumb topping for the coffee cake, you’ll only need four additional ingredients: flour, cinnamon, brown sugar and cold butter. This streusel-like mixture will be scattered over the top of the cake before it bakes and will add a nice crunch to the finished product.
The Recipe How-To
Now that you have gathered all of the ingredients, let’s get started on making this delicious Apple Butter Coffee Cake recipe!
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Next, prepare the crumb topping.
Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping
In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Then, add 1/2 cup (1 stick) of melted salted butter and mix until crumbly. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, cream together 3/4 cup of softened butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in 1 egg, 1/2 cup of apple butter, and mix well.
In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of wheat germ, 1 teaspoon each of baking soda, baking powder, ground nutmeg, and pumpkin pie spice, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
Add this dry mixture into the wet mixture in three increments alternating with adding in 1 cup of milk, mixing well after each addition.
Step 4: Layer and Bake
Pour half the batter into the prepared baking dish. Spread a layer of apple butter over the top then add another layer of batter followed by another layer of apple butter.
Sprinkle the crumb topping over the top evenly to completely cover the cake before placing it in the preheated oven.
Bake for about 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
After the cake has cooled, dust with powdered sugar and serve hot or cold. You can also pair it with a cup of coffee, ideally an Apple Butter Coffee, to enhance your experience.
Now you know how to make this heavenly Apple Butter Coffee Cake recipe. Enjoy this fluffy and crumbly delight in the company of loved ones or by yourself with a warm cup of coffee.
Substitutions and Variations
As a barista, I understand the importance of customizing your coffee to your preferences, and the Apple Butter Coffee Cake Recipe is no exception. Whether you want to switch up some ingredients or incorporate different flavors, here are a few substitutions and variations to consider:
– Use different types of spices: While the recipe calls for pumpkin pie spice or apple pie spice, feel free to experiment with other spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cardamom. These spices will add warmth and depth to the cake’s flavors.
– Substitute different fruit spreads: If you don’t have apple butter on hand, no worries! You can use other fruit spreads such as fig jam or apricot preserves to layer on top of the batter.
– Make it gluten-free: For those who have gluten sensitivities or allergies, swap out regular flour for gluten-free flour. King Arthur Flour has an excellent gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that works wonders in baking.
– Add nuts or dried fruits: If you’re looking for extra crunch and texture, toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts into the crumb topping. Alternatively, add some diced dried apples or cranberries into the batter for a chewy element.
– Turn it into a dessert: This coffee cake is already delicious on its own, but why not take it up a notch and make it a dessert? Drizzle some salted caramel sauce over each slice or serve it alongside vanilla ice cream.
Bottom line is that there are endless ways to customize this recipe according to your liking. Experimentation is key!
Serving and Pairing
Once your apple butter coffee cake is finished, it’s time to serve and pair this scrumptious dessert. This cake pairs well with a hot cup of coffee since the strong flavors and aromas of both complement each other beautifully. The apple butter coffee cake is perfect as a morning treat or as an after-dinner dessert.
To enhance the flavor profile of this cake, dust some powdered sugar on top before serving. This sweet topping adds an extra touch of flavor and texture to your masterpiece.
You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on top, which complements the warm spices in the coffee cake, making it a crowd-pleasing dish at dinner parties and family gatherings.
For those looking for something refreshing to pair with this cake, try a glass of cold milk to cool down the richness of the dessert. You can even whip up some homemade apple cider or pumpkin coffee to bring out the warmth and coziness of the season.
No matter how you choose to pair it, this easy apple butter crumb cake recipe will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Apple Butter Coffee Cake is an ideal dessert to make ahead in preparation for a special occasion or event. The beauty of this recipe is that it can be made ahead without sacrificing any of its decadent aroma, flavor, and texture. Make sure to allow the cake to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap. When stored correctly in the fridge or freezer, Apple Butter Coffee Cake can last for up to four days.
Storing this cake is simple and straightforward. It is best kept in the fridge or freezer when it’s not being served, covered with foil or plastic wrap to prevent drying out or discoloration. I would advise that you store it on the lowest shelf of your refrigerator or freezer to prevent other aromas from being absorbed by the cake.
If you have leftovers, reheating them is an excellent way of restoring their freshness and flavor. This coffee cake reheats well in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or in a microwave at medium power for two minutes, depending on the size of the slice.
An alternative method of reheating involves wrapping individual slices in aluminum foil and placing them in an oven set at 325°F for approximately 10 minutes. Once heated through entirely, dust some powdered sugar on top of your slice and you are good to go!
In conclusion, Apple Butter Coffee Cake keeps well if appropriately stored and can be quickly reheated for future enjoyment. It’s a delicious dessert that you won’t want to miss!
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to baking, there is always room for improvement. Even the most experienced bakers can find themselves struggling with a new recipe. However, by following some simple tips and tricks, you can ensure that your apple butter coffee cake turns out perfectly every time.
One of the most crucial tips for this recipe is to make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This helps to create a more cohesive batter, which will bake more evenly. When working with butter, let it sit out on the counter for at least 30 minutes before using it.
Another important tip is to measure your ingredients carefully. Too much or too little of any one ingredient can drastically alter the final product. Invest in a set of kitchen scales and measuring cups/spoons to get an accurate measurement every time.
To create a moist and flavorful cake, consider swapping out some of the flour for wheat germ. This adds a nutty flavor and extra nutrition to the cake. You can also experiment with different spices to add depth to the flavor – try pumpkin pie spice instead of apple pie spice or add a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.
When making the crumb topping, be sure to use cold butter straight from the fridge. Cut it into small cubes before adding it to the dry ingredients and use your fingertips to work it into a crumbly consistency. Plus, don’t forget to toast the topping – this will add an extra layer of crispiness and flavor.
And lastly, don’t overbake your cake! Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cake after 30-35 minutes in the oven. Use a toothpick inserted into the center – if it comes out clean without any crumbs sticking to it, then your cake is ready.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to create an apple butter coffee cake that steals the show at brunches or dessert tables!
FAQ
Now that you’ve learned how to make the delicious Apple Butter Coffee Cake, you may have some questions about the recipe. In this section, I’ll provide answers to some frequently asked questions to help you achieve perfect results every time. So, let’s dive into the most common queries regarding this recipe.
What’s the difference between apple butter and applesauce?
The dissimilarities between applesauce and apple butter may seem minor, but they can drastically affect the end result. Applesauce is a speedy making process of cooked apples that are passed through a food mill. On the other hand, apple butter is like a condensed version of applesauce. It goes through an extra step of being cooked down until it has a thicker, smoother texture, and a more concentrated apple taste. This is comparable to the analogy of tomato sauce versus tomato paste.
What are the best apples for apple butter?
When it comes to preparing delectable apple butter, opting for softer apple varieties is a wise choice as they tend to cook more quickly. To achieve the perfect taste, it is recommended to experiment with a combination of various apple varieties. Among the softer options, Golden Delicious and Fuji are two of the most commonly used types that blend exceptionally well together.
What’s the difference between coffee cake and streusel?
When it comes to distinguishing between crumb cake and coffee cake, the amount of streusel topping plays a key role. Crumb cake usually calls for a generous amount of streusel topping, which results in a thicker layer of crumbly goodness. On the other hand, coffee cake can be made with or without the streusel topping, depending on one’s preference.
What thickens apple butter?
When making Apple Butter, achieving the perfect consistency can make all the difference. One way to thicken it up is by cooking it uncovered in a slow cooker on HIGH for approximately an hour. Stirring it occasionally is key. Once it’s done cooking, allow it to cool and it should thicken up even more.
Bottom Line
:
If you are a coffee lover, I recommend that you try this Apple Butter Coffee Cake recipe. It is the perfect blend of sweet and nutty flavors. Not only is it delicious, but it also makes your house smell like freshly baked apples and cinnamon!
If you are looking for a coffee cake recipe that is easy to make and requires minimal effort, then this is definitely the one you should try. With ingredients that are readily available in most households, you can whip up this treat in no time.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations of this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Whether you choose to add your favorite nuts or spices, using apple pie spice instead of pumpkin pie spice, or even swapping out the apple butter for an alternative fruit spread, the possibilities are endless.
I hope this article has inspired you to get creative in the kitchen and try something new. As a barista and coffee enthusiast, I strongly recommend this recipe for its unique flavors and ease of preparation. So go ahead and indulge in a warm slice of apple butter coffee cake with your favorite cup of coffee – it’s the perfect way to start your day or end your meal on a high note!
Apple Butter Coffee Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Batter
- 1 (8 1/2 ounce) package corn muffin mix
- 1/4 cup toasted or untoasted wheat germ
- 1 egg, beaten (or 1/4 cup frozen egg product, thawed)
- 1/2 cup apple butter
- 1/3 cup milk
- 3/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice or 3/4 teaspoon apple pie spice
Topping
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup toasted or untoasted wheat germ
- 1/4 cup apple butter
- powdered sugar (optional)
- apple butter (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl combine muffin mix and the first 1/4 cup wheat germ.
- In another bowl combine the egg, 1/2 cup apple butter, milk, and pumpkin or apple pie spice.
- Add the egg mixture all at once to the wheat germ mixture, stirring just till combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased 8x8x2-inch baking pan.
- For topping, in a small bowl stir together brown sugar, the remaining 1/4 cup wheat germ, and 1/4 cup apple butter.
- Spoon mixture in small mounds atop batter in pan.
- Using a knife, marble the mixture through the batter.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes or till a wooden toothpick inserted near center comes out clean.
- To serve, sift powdered sugar over each serving and serve with additional apple butter, if desired.
- Serve warm.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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