Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake
Indulging in the exquisite blend of apple pie and coffee cake has never been easier with this delightful recipe for Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake. The harmonious marriage of tender apples, warm spices, and a buttery coffee cake base is sure to awaken your taste buds and leave you craving more. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of crafting this sweet symphony and provide insights into its creation, serving suggestions, and frequently asked questions. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that combines the comforting essence of apple pie with the irresistible charm of coffee cake.
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Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Medium-sized apples | 4 (peeled and diced) |
| Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 tsp |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 tsp |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tbsp |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
| Cornstarch | 2 tsp |
For the Coffee Cake:
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| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Unsalted butter | 1/4 cup (softened) |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Baking powder | 3 tsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Large egg | 1 |
For the Streusel Topping:
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| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1/3 cup |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/2 tsp |
| Unsalted butter | 1/4 cup (cubed) |
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Apple Pie Filling:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the apples to slightly soften and the flavors to meld.
- Mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the apple mixture. This will help thicken the filling.
- Introduce the unsalted butter and lemon juice to the saucepan. Stirring continuously, cook until the filling reaches a thick consistency, typically around 3-4 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
Coffee Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, softened butter, milk, baking powder, salt, and large egg. Use a beater to create a smooth batter.
Pro Tip: To enhance the flavor and aroma, consider adding a hint of vanilla extract to the coffee cake batter.
- Pour half of the prepared batter into the greased baking dish, ensuring an even spread.
- Gently layer the apple pie filling over the batter in the dish, allowing the flavors to meld as they bake.
- Spoon the remaining batter in dollops over the apple pie filling, creating a delightful contrast in textures.
Streusel Topping:
- In a small bowl, create the streusel topping by mixing granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and ground cinnamon.
- Incorporate cubed unsalted butter into the mixture using a fork or pastry cutter. The result should resemble coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the streusel topping generously over the top of the batter in the baking dish, adding an extra layer of indulgence.
Baking the Symphony:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
- Once baked to perfection, remove the coffee cake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to settle.
Serving Suggestions: Elevating the Experience
Completing this culinary masterpiece is just the beginning. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to amplify your Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake experience:
- Creamy Topping: Enhance the richness by serving each slice with a generous dollop of whipped cream or velvety vanilla ice cream. The contrast between warm cake and cool topping is pure bliss.
- Beverage Pairing: A cup of freshly brewed coffee or spiced tea harmonizes beautifully with the cake’s flavors, creating a symphony of taste sensations.
- Garnish: Elevate both the presentation and taste by sprinkling a touch of cinnamon or adding an artful caramel drizzle. Your senses will thank you for the extra attention to detail.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use different types of apples for the filling? A: Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are recommended for their balanced flavors, feel free to experiment with other apple varieties that suit your taste.
Q: Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time? A: Indeed! Prepare the cake in advance, store it in an airtight container, and reheat individual slices in the microwave for a warm and comforting treat.
Q: Is this coffee cake suitable for special occasions? A: Absolutely! The elegant combination of apple pie filling and coffee cake makes it a fantastic choice for birthdays, brunches, or any time you want to impress your guests.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Certainly! Slice the coffee cake, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, and store them in the freezer. Thaw and reheat for an instant indulgence.
Q: What if I don’t have all-purpose flour? A: Feel free to substitute with cake flour if available. While the texture may vary slightly, the cake will still be delicious.
Q: Can I add nuts to the streusel topping? A: Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds can be a delightful addition to the streusel topping, adding a satisfying crunch.
In conclusion, the Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake is a culinary masterpiece that marries the flavors of apple pie with the irresistible charm of coffee cake. With a perfect blend of textures and harmonious flavors, this dessert offers a delightful symphony for your taste buds. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with a creamy topping, pairing it with your favorite beverage, or garnishing it to perfection, this coffee cake is a true testament to the magic that happens when classic desserts unite. So, embrace the warm and inviting aromas as you bake, serve, and savor every bite of this sweet and comforting symphony.
