As the crisp autumn air settles in, the sweet aroma of warm cinnamon and fresh apples fills my kitchen, instantly whisking me away to a cozy coffee shop tucked away in a quaint, colorful town. Today, I’m excited to share my beloved Apple Cider Coffee Cake recipe, a delightful mashup that perfectly captures the essence of fall baking. This cake doesn’t just look inviting; with its moist crumb and a generous topping of cinnamon streusel, it’s destined to be your new go-to comfort dessert. It’s perfect for sharing at gatherings or savoring with a steaming cup of your favorite brew. So, whether you’re a passionate home-chef or just looking for a cozy treat to enjoy, let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that’s sure to fill your heart and home with warmth this season. What will you pair it with?
Why is this coffee cake so comforting?
Satisfying Texture: This Apple Cider Coffee Cake features a moist crumb that melts in your mouth, making every bite a true fall delight.
Warm Cinnamon Flavor: Infused with aromatic spices, the cake creates a warm ambiance perfect for crisp autumn mornings.
Study of Versatility: Whether served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this cake fits any occasion beautifully.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this comforting dessert in no time, leaving more time for cozy moments.
Crowd Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this cake will impress family and friends. Ready to savor it over a cup of coffee? Try serving it alongside my Birthday Cake Overnight Oats for a fun breakfast twist!
Apple Cider Coffee Cake Ingredients
For the Cake Batter
• Apple Cider – Adds a tart apple flavor and moisture to the cake; use unfiltered cider for the best taste.
• Full-Fat Sour Cream – Contributes creaminess and depth; Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute.
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness; margarine can work, but butter gives the best flavor.
• Granulated White Sugar – Sweetens the cake perfectly.
• Dark Brown Sugar – Adds a hint of molasses flavor and extra moisture.
• Large Egg – Binds ingredients together; for an egg-free option, substitute with a chia or flaxseed egg.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor depth wonderfully.
• Diamond-Crystal Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness; use less if you’re using other salt types.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Ensures a light and fluffy texture.
• Ground Cinnamon – Infuses a cozy, warm flavor into the cake.
• All-Purpose Flour – The foundation for the cake’s structure; swap with gluten-free baking flour for a GF option.
• Sliced Apples – Provides texture and deliciousness; use firm, sweet varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
For the Streusel Topping
• Flour – Forms the base of the streusel for that delightful crunch.
• Dark Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a rich depth of flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon – Complements the flavors in the cake beautifully.
• Melted Butter – Binds the streusel together; watch for freshness in your butter!
For the Glaze
• Reduced Apple Cider – Drizzle this luscious glaze for an added layer of sweet apple flavor; it ties the whole cake together perfectly.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cider Coffee Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). While the oven warms up, prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the moist Apple Cider Coffee Cake later.
Step 2: Reduce the Cider
In a medium saucepan, pour in 32 fluid ounces of apple cider. Bring the cider to a boil over medium heat and allow it to simmer until it reduces to about 2 cups, which should take around 20 minutes. Once reduced, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Glaze
With the remaining apple cider, you’ll create a delightful glaze. In a clean saucepan, bring 1 cup of the cider to a simmer and let it boil down until it thickens to a syrupy texture, usually about 10-15 minutes. Set this aside to cool while you work on the cake batter.
Step 4: Make the Streusel
In a medium bowl, combine ¾ cup of flour, ¾ cup of dark brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Pour in ½ cup of melted butter and mix until clumpy. Refrigerate the streusel mixture while you prepare the rest of the coffee cake to ensure it gets nice and crispy.
Step 5: Prep the Apples
Take 1-2 medium-sized apples and slice them into thin pieces, then toss them with a tablespoon of flour and a few drizzles of the cider glaze until evenly coated. This will help prevent the apples from sinking in the batter and enhance the overall flavor of the Apple Cider Coffee Cake.
Step 6: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together ½ cup of unsalted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of dark brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. The air incorporated during this step is crucial for a moist texture in your coffee cake.
Step 7: Mix in Ingredients
Slowly add in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, blending them into the creamed butter mixture. Next, alternate adding the dry ingredients—2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt—with the cooled apple cider mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are fine.
Step 8: Fold in Apples
Gently fold the prepared apple slices into the batter using a spatula, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. The chunks of apple will add a wonderful texture and sweetness to your Apple Cider Coffee Cake, making it truly delightful.
Step 9: Assemble
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the chilled streusel topping generously across the batter, creating a deliciously crunchy layer that bakes up perfectly as the cake cooks.
Step 10: Bake
Place your cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. It’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Keep an eye out for a golden-brown top, signaling a delicious outcome.
Step 11: Glaze
Once out of the oven, drizzle the cooled apple cider glaze over the hot cake while it’s still warm. Let your Apple Cider Coffee Cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, allowing the glaze to soak in, and then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting and serving.
Storage Tips for Apple Cider Coffee Cake
Room Temperature: Store tightly wrapped or in an airtight container for 1-2 days at room temperature, keeping it soft and moist.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for freezing. It can last up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, briefly microwave slices for 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for added freshness, bringing back the delightful flavors of your Apple Cider Coffee Cake.
Apple Cider Coffee Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative with this Apple Cider Coffee Cake recipe, bringing your personal touch to every bite!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for a cake everyone can savor. It won’t take away from the rich flavors and moist texture.
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Nutty Addition: Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that elevates the cake’s texture. The nuts provide a warm flavor that complements the apple beautifully.
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Spiced Up: Add ½ teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger for a bolder spice profile that makes each slice unforgettable. The added warmth will make your kitchen feel even cozier!
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Apple Variety: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a flavor explosion. The contrast in sweetness adds depth to every mouthful.
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Dairy-Free: Swap full-fat sour cream with coconut yogurt and the butter for a dairy-free margarine. This way, you can still enjoy the moistness without the dairy!
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Mini Treats: Transform this recipe into delightful muffins instead of a cake. Bake for 18-20 minutes for a portable treat that’s perfect for sharing at brunch.
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Caramel Drizzle: Add a swirl of caramel sauce over the glazed cake for an irresistible touch of sweetness. This decadent addition elevates your cake into a true dessert masterpiece!
Looking for more delicious options? Consider pairing this with my Salted Caramel Apple for an epic autumn dessert spread!
What to Serve with Apple Cider Coffee Cake
As the warmth of your freshly baked coffee cake fills the air, consider these delightful accompaniments that enhance its cozy, comforting charm.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a fluffy, sweet contrast, making every bite even more indulgent.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Soft, creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful temperature contrast, melting slightly over the warm cake for a classic twist.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Pairing this aromatic coffee cake with a pumpkin spice latte captures the essence of fall in every sip.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel over each slice deepens the sweet flavor, providing a luscious, syrupy experience.
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Apple Slices with Cinnamon: Fresh apple slices sprinkled with cinnamon bring a refreshing crunch that complements the cake’s sweet apple flavor beautifully.
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Chai Tea: Serve with a warm cup of chai tea to enhance the warm spices, creating a delightful sensory experience that’s perfect for chilly mornings.
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Cranberry Sauce: A spoonful of tangy cranberry sauce adds a zesty contrast to the sweetness of the cake, elevating the flavor profile in an unexpected way.
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Maple Syrup: Drizzling pure maple syrup adds a sweet and earthy richness that pairs marvelously with the spiced notes of the coffee cake.
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Hot Apple Cider: For a fully immersive autumn experience, a cup of hot apple cider echoes the cake’s flavors, wrapping you in the warmth of fall.
Expert Tips for Apple Cider Coffee Cake
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Perfectly Reduced Cider: Ensure your apple cider is well-reduced; this intensifies the flavor and moisture in the cake. Avoid rushing this step for a richer taste.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your butter and egg come to room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter, preventing that dense texture which can ruin your apple cider coffee cake.
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Avoid Over-Mixing: When incorporating flour, gently mix until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to a tough cake, missing that delightful softness.
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Check Baking Time: Ovens can vary widely. Begin checking for doneness at 30 minutes by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean, ensuring perfect moisture without undercooking.
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Cool Before Glazing: Allow your apple cider coffee cake to cool slightly before adding the glaze. This will help the glaze soak in without melting away, ensuring a beautiful finish.
Make Ahead Options
These Moist Apple Cider Coffee Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy fall mornings! You can prepare the batter and the streusel topping up to 24 hours in advance, simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep everything fresh. If you want to prep just the streusel topping, it can be made 3 days ahead—just keep it chilled until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to bake, spread the batter in the pan, top with the chilled streusel, and bake as directed. This means you’ll enjoy that warm, comforting flavor of your Apple Cider Coffee Cake without the last-minute rush!
Apple Cider Coffee Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of apple cider should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Apple Cider Coffee Cake, opt for unfiltered apple cider. This type is typically more robust and richer in apple flavor compared to clear apple juice, enhancing the cake’s overall taste.
How should I store leftover coffee cake?
For optimal freshness, store your cake tightly wrapped or in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Remember to seal it well to keep moisture in and prevent it from drying out!
Can I freeze Apple Cider Coffee Cake?
Yes, you can! To freeze your coffee cake, wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This method will keep it fresh for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and enjoy it at room temperature or warmed.
What if my cake turned out too dense?
If your Apple Cider Coffee Cake is dense, it could be due to over-mixing the batter. To avoid this, mix just until combined when adding the flour. Additionally, make sure your ingredients, particularly the baking powder and baking soda, are fresh for proper leavening.
Are there any dietary considerations I should know?
Certainly! If you’re looking for egg substitutes, chia seeds or flaxseed meal mixed with water can work beautifully. For a gluten-free option, simply swap regular all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Make sure to check that your baking ingredients meet any dietary restrictions.
What if I want to add nuts or other ingredients to the cake?
The more the merrier! You can definitely add nuts or raisins! If you want to incorporate them, simply fold chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or raisins into the batter at the same time you add the apple slices. This will add extra texture and flavor to your delicious Apple Cider Coffee Cake.
Moist Apple Cider Coffee Cake for Cozy Fall Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease an 8x8-inch baking pan with butter or line with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 32 fluid ounces of apple cider to a boil and reduce to about 2 cups, about 20 minutes. Cool slightly after removing from heat.
- In a clean saucepan, simmer 1 cup of remaining apple cider until syrupy, about 10-15 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- In a medium bowl, mix ¾ cup flour, ¾ cup dark brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Add ½ cup melted butter and mix until clumpy. Refrigerate.
- Slice 1-2 medium apples thinly. Toss with a tablespoon of flour and a few drizzles of cider glaze.
- Cream ½ cup unsalted butter, ½ cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup dark brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Alternate adding 2 cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt with the cooled apple cider mixture.
- Fold in the prepared apple slices gently.
- Spread batter in the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top. Sprinkle the chilled streusel topping over the batter.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Watch for a golden-brown top.
- Drizzle cooled apple cider glaze over the warm cake. Cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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