Apple Butter Coffee Cake Delightfully Simple Recipe

Are you ready to bake something truly special? This Apple Butter Coffee Cake is simple, delicious, and sure to please. With just a few common ingredients, you can create a warm dessert that highlights the sweet taste of apple butter. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, I promise this cake will become a family favorite. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will fill your home with amazing aromas!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup apple butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Gathering the right ingredients is key for a great Apple Butter Coffee Cake. Start with all-purpose flour. It gives the cake structure. Next, granulated sugar adds sweetness. Salt helps balance the flavors. Baking powder and baking soda make the cake rise.
Unsalted butter adds richness. Ensure it is softened. You’ll need two large eggs for moisture and binding. Sour cream keeps the cake tender. Apple butter is the star here, providing flavor and moisture.
Vanilla extract adds warmth to the taste. Ground cinnamon brings a lovely spice. If you like crunch, add chopped walnuts. The brown sugar topping gives a sweet crunch.
With these ingredients, you’re ready to bake a delicious cake that everyone will enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish well.
– In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of flour, 1 cup of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. Whisk them until they blend well.
– Now, add 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix it in. You want it to look like coarse sand.
Mixing Ingredients
– In another bowl, crack 2 large eggs and beat them lightly.
– Add 1/2 cup of sour cream, 1/2 cup of apple butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until it is smooth.
– Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently fold them together until just combined. Be careful not to mix too much. This keeps the cake fluffy.
Final Steps
– If you like walnuts, fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts now.
– Transfer the batter into the greased dish. Spread it out evenly.
– In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mix over the batter.
– Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
– After baking, take the cake out and let it cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes. This helps the flavors come together and makes it easier to cut.
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
To keep the cake fluffy, use room-temperature butter. Cold butter can lead to a dense texture. Make sure to cream the butter well until light and fluffy. This step adds air and lifts the cake.
To avoid overmixing, gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together. Use a spatula and stop as soon as you see no dry flour. A few lumps are okay. Overmixing makes the cake tough.
Serving Suggestions
For a nice presentation, cut the cake into neat squares. Lightly dust the top with powdered sugar. This adds a lovely touch. Serve the cake warm with a cup of coffee or tea. The flavors blend beautifully, making it a perfect match.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not use cold butter in your mix. It will not blend well and can ruin the texture. Always soften the butter first.
Skipping the cooling time is another mistake. Let the cake cool for 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps the flavors settle and makes cutting easier. Enjoy your baking!
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can change the type of apples for this cake. Use sweet apples like Fuji or Gala. Tart apples like Granny Smith can add a nice zing. Each choice gives a unique taste.
If you want to skip sour cream, try plain yogurt. Greek yogurt works well, too. You can also use buttermilk for a different texture.
Flavor Additions
Spice up your cake by adding nutmeg or ginger. Just a dash can make a big difference. These spices add warmth and depth to the flavor.
You can also mix in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. They add sweetness and chewiness. For a chocolate twist, fold in chocolate chips. This makes the cake even more indulgent.
Dietary Modifications
Making a gluten-free version is easy. Use a blend of gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure it has xanthan gum for better texture.
If you want a vegan cake, swap eggs for applesauce. Use dairy-free yogurt to replace sour cream. These changes keep the cake moist and delicious without animal products.
Storage Info
How to Store
Store your apple butter coffee cake at room temperature. Keep it in an airtight container. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor. If you prefer, you can refrigerate it. Just remember, refrigeration may dry it out slightly.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze your cake, follow these steps:
– Wait for the cake to cool completely.
– Cut it into squares for easy serving.
– Wrap each piece in plastic wrap.
– Place the wrapped pieces in a freezer bag.
– Label the bag with the date.
– Store in the freezer for up to three months.
To reheat, take a piece out and unwrap it. Place it on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for about 20-30 seconds. Enjoy it warm for the best taste!
Shelf Life
The apple butter coffee cake lasts about 3-4 days at room temperature. If you store it in the fridge, it can last up to a week. In the freezer, it stays good for about three months. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. Enjoy your delicious cake while it’s fresh!
FAQs
What is Apple Butter?
Apple butter is a smooth, sweet spread made from cooked apples. It has a rich, deep flavor. You can use it on toast, pancakes, or in baked goods. It adds moisture and sweetness to recipes. Apple butter is perfect for making your cake extra tasty.
Can I use homemade apple butter?
Yes, you can use homemade apple butter! Homemade apple butter is fresher and more flavorful. You can control the sugar and spices. This makes it a great choice for your cake. Plus, using homemade adds a personal touch.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cake a day in advance. Bake it, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh and tasty. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to let it cool fully before freezing.
This blog post covers all the steps to make a delicious cake with apple butter. I shared the ingredients, preparation steps, and tips to ensure perfect results. Remember to store your cake properly for the best taste. Consider variations for flavor and dietary needs to suit your preferences. Baking can be fun and rewarding. Enjoy the process and share your results with friends and family. Happy baking!
