Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake: A Perfect Blend of Flavors for Any Occasion
If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the best of two worlds—coffee cake and apple pie—look no further than this Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake. The moist cake base, layered with rich apple pie filling, and topped with a buttery crumble, creates the ultimate fall or anytime treat. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a cozy breakfast or an impressive dessert.
For those who enjoy easy and delicious desserts, check out this No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake or Easy Apple Hand Pies for more fall-inspired treats that pair well with coffee and tea.
Key Ingredients for Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake
To get started on this delicious cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Apple pie filling: The main source of the fruity sweetness.
- All-purpose flour: Essential for a tender cake base.
- Butter: Used for both the cake and the crumb topping.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the cake and the crumble.
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth and enhances the apple flavors.
- Eggs: Provides structure to the cake.
- Baking powder: Ensures the cake rises and becomes fluffy.
If you love versatile breakfast options, you may also like this Sheet Pan Pancakes for an easy and delicious morning meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
45 minutes
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crumble: In a small bowl, mix together flour, sugar, and cinnamon. Add melted butter and stir until crumbly. Set aside.
- Make the Cake Batter: In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with milk, until everything is combined.
- Layer the Cake and Filling: Spread half the batter into a greased baking pan. Add a layer of apple pie filling, then spread the remaining batter on top.
- Add the Crumb Topping: Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the top of the cake.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool before slicing, then serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake
- Use homemade apple pie filling: If you have the time, homemade filling adds a fresh and tangy flavor to the cake.
- Chill the cake before serving: Letting the cake chill for a few hours allows the flavors to meld together for a richer taste.
- Don’t overmix: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to avoid a dense cake.
Internal Link Opportunity:
For those who enjoy breakfast-style desserts, check out Breakfast Sausage Biscuits Gravy Casserole, which pairs perfectly with this coffee cake for a hearty meal.
Popular Variations of Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake
This cake is incredibly versatile, and you can tweak it to suit your taste:
- Cinnamon Streusel Apple Coffee Cake: Add an extra layer of cinnamon streusel for added crunch and flavor.
- Cream Cheese Apple Coffee Cake: Add a layer of sweetened cream cheese between the cake and the apple pie filling for a tangy twist.
- Gluten-Free Apple Pie Coffee Cake: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Caramel Apple Coffee Cake: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cake before serving for an indulgent finish.
- Pecan Apple Coffee Cake: Add chopped pecans to the crumb topping for an extra crunchy texture.
For more coffee cake ideas, try this Blue Ribbon Blueberry Coffee Cake for a fruity alternative.
Nutritional Information and Healthier Options
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 4g
Healthier Alternatives:
- Substitute butter: Use coconut oil instead of butter for a healthier fat option.
- Reduce sugar: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit to lower the sugar content.
- Use whole wheat flour: Swap out half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat to add fiber.
How to Store, Reheat, and Freeze Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake
- Store leftovers: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes.
- Freeze: You can freeze individual slices or the whole cake. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
Internal Link Opportunity:
Want to freeze more baked goods? Try this Ultimate BBQ Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese, which freezes beautifully for later.
Serving Suggestions for Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake
This cake can be enjoyed in several different ways:
- With coffee or tea: Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
- As a dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- For a fall brunch: This cake is an ideal addition to a fall-themed brunch spread.
- With caramel drizzle: Enhance the apple flavors by drizzling caramel sauce over the top before serving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh apples instead of apple pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh apples by cooking them down with sugar, cinnamon, and a little cornstarch to create a homemade pie filling.
Can I use a cake mix for the base?
Yes, a yellow or spice cake mix works great as a shortcut for the cake batter.
How do I keep the crumb topping crispy?
Make sure to use cold butter when making the crumb topping, and avoid overmixing. Chilling the cake after baking can also help maintain the crunchy texture.
Can I make this coffee cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the cake gluten-free.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Not letting the cake cool: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to avoid it falling apart.
- Skipping the crumb topping: The crumb topping is what gives this cake its signature texture and flavor, so don’t skip it!
External Links to Include:
- Anchor Text: “How to Make Homemade Apple Pie Filling”
URL: https://www.culinaryhill.com/homemade-apple-pie-filling/
Reason: A great resource for readers who want to make their own apple pie filling from scratch. - Anchor Text: “Easy Apple Pie Coffee Cake Recipe”
URL: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/239157/easy-apple-pie-coffee-cake/
Reason: Offers a quick and easy recipe for coffee cake lovers. - Anchor Text: “Apple Pie Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel”
URL: https://www.bakerstable.net/apple-pie-coffee-cake-with-cinnamon-pecan-streusel
Reason: Provides another variation with an extra layer of streusel topping.
Conclusion
Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of apple pie in an easy-to-make coffee cake. With its tender crumb, rich apple filling, and buttery topping, it’s a versatile dessert that works for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the different variations or try it with other fruit fillings like cherries or peaches. Enjoy!