Apple Streusel Coffee Cake

Baking is as much an art as it is a science, and understanding the indicators of doneness is crucial for achieving the perfect Delightful Apple Streusel Coffee Cake. The cake should be golden brown on the top, and when you insert a toothpick in the center, it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, the cake needs more time in the oven.

Apple Streusel Coffee Cake

Discover the delightful Apple Streusel Coffee Cake, a perfect addition to any gathering or cozy brunch. This recipe boasts a moist cake filled with tender apple chunks, topped with a crunchy, spiced streusel. Ideal for pairing with coffee or tea, this cake not only offers incredible flavor but also brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Experience the joy of baking as your kitchen fills with its irresistible aroma. It's time to share a sweet moment with family and friends!

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Ingredients

For the Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

1 cup sour cream

2 large eggs

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

2 cups apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)

For the Streusel Topping:

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/3 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/2 cup rolled oats

1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional for added crunch)

For the Drizzle:

1 cup powdered sugar

2-3 tbsp milk (adjust for desired consistency)

1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9-inch round cake pan by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper for easier cake removal.

Make the Cake Batter:

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together. Mix for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Incorporate Wet Ingredients:

Add the eggs to the creamed mixture one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then blend in the sour cream and pure vanilla extract until the batter is smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together until evenly mixed.

Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients:

Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet batter, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine!

Fold in Apples:

Carefully fold in the diced apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter without breaking them down.

Prepare the Streusel Topping:

In another medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, melted butter, rolled oats, and chopped walnuts (if using). Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Layer the Cake:

Pour half of the prepared cake batter into the bottom of the greased pan. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter. Add the remaining cake batter and finish with the rest of the streusel on top.

Bake:

Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean. If the cake begins to brown too much, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

Cool:

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Drizzle:

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the amount of milk as needed to achieve your desired drizzle consistency.

Finish:

Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the icing over the top in a decorative pattern. Slice into pieces and serve!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 12

- Presentation Tips: Serve slices of the coffee cake on decorative plates, garnished with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a side of fresh apple slices for an appealing touch!