Apple Cream Cheese Coffee Cake

Discover the Irresistible Apple Cream Cheese Coffee Cake

Imagine a warm, inviting kitchen filled with the comforting aromas of baked apples, cinnamon, and a hint of cream cheese. On a rainy morning, not much can beat the charm of a homemade coffee cake, especially one that features the delightful combination of sweet apples and creamy goodness. As you sink your fork into a slice, the moist, tender crumb, the creamy filling, and the crunchy topping all come together for a little slice of heaven. This Apple Cream Cheese Coffee Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration, a warm hug in cake form, and a delightful companion for your morning coffee or afternoon tea.

Ingredients You'll Need

• For the Cake:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 cups peeled, diced apples (your choice of variety)
• For the Cream Cheese Filling:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Topping:
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation

Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Calories: Approximately 320 calories per slice

Making the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
5. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the diced apples gently, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Making the Cream Cheese Filling

1. In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.
2. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined and creamy.

Assembling the Cake

1. Pour half of the apple batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out with a spatula.
2. Carefully spoon the cream cheese mixture over the apple batter, spreading it evenly but try not to disturb the batter.
3. Top with the remaining apple batter, gently spreading it over the cream cheese layer.

Making the Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix together the rolled oats, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until crumbly.
2. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the cake batter.

Baking the Cake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Common Questions About Apple Cream Cheese Coffee Cake

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Absolutely! Pears, berries, or even peaches can be delicious alternatives. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness and spices as needed.

How do I store leftover cake?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s wrapped tightly.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter and filling the day before and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just assemble and follow the baking instructions.

I’m vegetarian. Is this recipe suitable?

This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, utilizing eggs and dairy without any meat products. However, if you need to substitute for dietary preferences, flax eggs or applesauce can be a great alternative.

Tips, Variations, and Serving Suggestions

Tips: For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or some chopped nuts to the topping. This adds both texture and depth to your coffee cake.

Variations: Consider adding chocolate chips, caramel swirls, or even some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.

Serving Suggestions: Serve your cake warm with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or even a side of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.

Conclusion

This Apple Cream Cheese Coffee Cake is much more than just a delightful addition to your brunch table; it’s an experience all on its own. The combination of tender apples, a smooth and tangy cream cheese layer, and a crumbly oat topping creates a symphony of texture and flavor that is hard to resist. Whether enjoyed in solitude with a cup of coffee or shared with loved ones over the weekend, this cake epitomizes comfort and joy in every bite. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and bring the magic of this delicious recipe to your kitchen!