As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets crisper, nothing signifies fall quite like the sweet, inviting aroma of baked apples wafting through my kitchen. This Caramel Apple Coffee Cake is a delightful tribute to the season, merging the comforting flavors of Honey Crisp apples with a rich, velvety caramel drizzle that is simply irresistible. I discovered this recipe in a cozy cookbook tucked away on my shelf, and its charm reached out to me immediately. The combination of spiced apples and crunchy walnuts creates a perfect harmony of textures that makes each bite feel like a warm hug. Whether you’re preparing for a brunch gathering or treating yourself to a quiet evening at home, this versatile cake is sure to impress. Join me as we dive into the best caramel apple coffee cake recipe that captures the essence of autumn with its delicious flavors and heartwarming vibe!
Why is this The Best Caramel Apple Coffee Cake?
Irresistible aroma: As it bakes, your kitchen fills with the warm, inviting scents of caramel and baked apples, creating the perfect autumn atmosphere.
Customizable delight: Use your favorite apple varieties for a unique twist, making each batch your own.
Crowd-pleasing charm: Ideal for brunch, gatherings, or a cozy night in, this cake is sure to impress everyone.
Simple process: With straightforward steps, it’s perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs.
Delicious texture: The combination of moist cake, crunchy walnuts, and rich caramel creates a symphony of flavors and textures with every bite.
For even more tempting baked goods, check out our fall-inspired dessert recipes!
The Best Caramel Apple Coffee Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- Butter – Adds moisture and richness; for a vegan option, try margarine or a plant-based alternative.
- Eggs – Provide structure and moisture; substitute with a flaxseed mixture for a vegan twist.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the cake’s structure; a gluten-free blend works as a great alternative.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake; coconut sugar can replace it if you prefer a less refined option.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; if unavailable, almond extract can offer a different twist.
- Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise; be sure it’s fresh for the best results.
- Honey Crisp Apples – Offer a sweet and crisp bite; various apples like Fuji or Gala can provide different flavors.
- Milk (1%) – Adds moisture to the batter; almond milk or any plant-based milk makes a suitable substitute.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances all the flavors; regular salt is fine if that's what you have.
For the Topping
- Chopped Walnuts – Adds a delightful crunch and flavor; pecans can be swapped in or omitted for nut-free versions.
- Apple Pie Spice – Infuses warmth and richness; blend equal parts cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice if you need a substitute.
- Caramel Sauce – Provides that sweet, rich finish beloved in this cake; either homemade or store-bought works wonderfully.
Remember, this is not just any cake—it's The Best Caramel Apple Coffee Cake Recipe that will warm your heart and home this fall!
How to Make Caramel Apple Coffee Cake
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Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it warms up, prepare your 9x13 pan or three small loaf pans by greasing them well; this helps prevent sticking.
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Mix the batter: In a stand mixer, combine the melted butter, eggs, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, baking powder, milk, and kosher salt. Mix on medium-low speed until everything is smooth and well-combined—about 2-3 minutes should do it!
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Fold in apples and walnuts: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts and diced Honey Crisp apples until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. This ensures each slice bursts with flavor!
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Pour the batter: Transfer the batter into your prepared pans, distributing it evenly. If you're using multiple pans, be sure to divide it equally so they bake evenly.
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Add apple slices: Arrange thin slices of apple on top of the batter in each pan before adding the streusel topping. This not only looks beautiful but adds extra flavor too!
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Prepare the streusel: In a separate bowl, mix the streusel ingredients together until crumbly. Use your fingers to combine until it resembles coarse crumbs, then sprinkle it generously over the cake batter, lightly pushing it down into the apple slices.
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Bake the cake: Place the pans in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the cakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool and drizzle: Once baked, allow the cakes to cool for a few minutes before drizzling your homemade caramel sauce on top. This adds a beautiful finish and enhances the flavors.
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Caramel Apple Coffee Cake?
Indulging in a slice of this decadent coffee cake invites the warmth of fall into your home, making it the perfect choice for cozy gatherings.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful creaminess that balances the richness of the cake.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream brings a luscious touch, enhancing the flavors while keeping the dessert feeling light.
- Freshly Brewed Coffee: A warm cup of coffee perfectly complements the sweet and spiced notes of the cake, making it an ideal brunch pairing.
- Spiced Apple Cider: Enjoy the autumnal vibes by serving a warm glass of spiced apple cider, bringing out the cake’s apple flavors beautifully.
- Candied Pecans: For an added crunch, these sweet, crunchy nuts add texture and pair wonderfully with the moist cake.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace fall flavors by sipping on a pumpkin spice latte, a cozy match to the warm notes in the cake.
Each of these pairings invites an element of comfort that compliments the heartwarming charm of the Caramel Apple Coffee Cake, making your meal even more special.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Caramel Apple Coffee Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all your wet and dry ingredients together, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. Chopped apples and walnuts can also be prepped ahead; simply store them separately to prevent browning and keep their crunch. When you’re ready to bake, combine the prepped ingredients and pour the mixture into your pans. Top them with apple slices and streusel right before baking for the freshest result. By following these simple tips, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavors with minimal fuss during busy weeknights!
Caramel Apple Coffee Cake Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to this delightful cake and make it uniquely yours!
- Apple Variety: Use different apples like Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith for a sweet or tart flavor profile. Each apple brings its own charm and texture to the cake.
- Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts and replace them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch without the nuts. This makes it safe for those with nut allergies while still adding a delightful texture.
- Caramel Swirl: Swirl some caramel sauce into the batter before baking for an extra gooey treat. This added layer of caramel creates pockets of sweetness that melt in your mouth.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of ginger for a subtle kick that complements the sweetness of the cake. The heat creates a surprising depth of flavor that warms you from within.
- Dried Fruits: Incorporate raisins or dried cranberries for added sweetness and chewy texture. The fruits enhance the cake's flavor and provide a lovely contrast to the crunch of the walnuts.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A chocolate ganache drizzle on top can transform this cake into an indulgent dessert. The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the caramel and apple flavors.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, allowing everyone to enjoy the deliciousness without worry. Just be sure to check the blend for best results.
- Vegan Option: Swap eggs with a flaxseed mixture and use almond milk along with vegan butter to make this cake suited for a plant-based lifestyle; it’s just as delicious!
Storage Tips for Caramel Apple Coffee Cake
Fridge: Store any leftover caramel apple coffee cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer; it can last up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm slice of this delightful cake, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warmed through. Add a drizzle of caramel for extra indulgence!
Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the cake within a day, it can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for optimal freshness and flavor.
Expert Tips for the Best Caramel Apple Coffee Cake
• Apple Selection: Choose Honey Crisp apples for their sweetness and crisp texture; they hold up beautifully during baking.
• Mix Thoroughly: Make sure all ingredients are well combined; this ensures even baking and enhances the flavor of your caramel apple coffee cake.
• Streusel Topping: For the best crumble topping, use cold butter and mix by hand until it resembles coarse crumbs for that perfect crunch.
• Don't Overbake: Check the cake at the lower end of the baking time to avoid dry cake; different ovens can vary in temperature.
• Serving Suggestions: Drizzle extra caramel sauce on each slice, and serve warm with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent experience that everyone will love.
Caramel Apple Coffee Cake Recipe FAQs
What kind of apples should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Honey Crisp apples are my go-to for their sweetness and crisp texture, feel free to experiment with other firm varieties like Fuji or Gala. Just ensure the apples you choose can hold up during baking to retain their shape and flavor!
How should I store leftover Caramel Apple Coffee Cake?
For best results, store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you'd like to enjoy it later, wrapping the cake tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil allows it to be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze Caramel Apple Coffee Cake?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, allow the cake to cool completely, then slice it if desired. Wrap each slice or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat briefly in the microwave or oven for a fresh taste.
What should I do if my cake is too dry?
If your cake turns out too dry, it’s often due to overbaking. Always check for doneness a few minutes early and rely on the toothpick test. If you find yourself with a dry cake, you can serve it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of ice cream to add moisture and richness.
Are there any dietary swaps I can make for this recipe?
The more the merrier! You can replace eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg). For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or substitute them with seeds. Also, a gluten-free flour blend works great for those needing gluten-free options, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious treat.
The Best Indulgent Caramel Apple Coffee Cake Recipe Ever
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare your pans.
- In a stand mixer, combine melted butter, eggs, flour, sugar, vanilla, baking powder, milk, and salt.
- Fold in chopped walnuts and diced apples.
- Pour the batter into prepared pans.
- Arrange apple slices on top before adding streusel.
- Mix streusel ingredients until crumbly and sprinkle on top.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, checking for doneness.
- Allow to cool slightly and drizzle caramel on top.
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