If you love the cozy flavors of fall, you’ll adore my Maple Glazed Apple Coffee Cake. This sweet treat combines juicy apples with a rich maple glaze, creating a delightful blend that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or craving a snack, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Join me as I share the simple steps, tips, and variations to make your baking journey a sweet success!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Maple Glazed Apple Coffee Cake
To make a great Maple Glazed Apple Coffee Cake, you need some key ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (about 2 cups)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for glaze)
These ingredients work together to create a soft and moist cake with a sweet touch from the maple glaze.
Optional Ingredients for added Flavor
If you want to add some extra flavor to your cake, consider these options:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- A sprinkle of brown sugar on top before baking
The nuts add a nice crunch and depth to the cake. Brown sugar gives a caramel-like flavor.
Dietary Substitutions
You can easily adjust the recipe to fit your dietary needs. Here are some simple swaps:
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Dairy-free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and milk with almond milk.
- Egg-free: Replace each egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
These substitutions keep the cake tasty while meeting different dietary needs. Enjoy baking your delightful Maple Glazed Apple Coffee Cake!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. You will need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish. You can also use parchment paper for easy removal later.
Mixing and Baking the Cake
In a large bowl, whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until they mix well. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar. Mix until it becomes light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each one. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Now, gradually mix in the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients. Do this while alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the dry mix. Be careful not to overmix. Once combined, gently fold in the diced apples and walnuts or pecans if you want that extra crunch.
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean when poked in the center.
Creating and Applying the Maple Glaze
While the cake bakes, you can prepare the maple glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup maple syrup and 1 tablespoon milk until smooth. Once the cake is done, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
Drizzle the warm glaze over the cake. Let it set before cutting the coffee cake into squares. Enjoy each bite of this sweet treat!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
For a soft and moist coffee cake, use room-temperature ingredients. This helps them blend well. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Gently fold in the apples and nuts for added texture. Use fresh apples for the best flavor and moisture.
Flavor Enhancements and Variations
You can spice things up with different flavors. Add a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract for depth. Try mixing in a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for warmth. Swap out the walnuts or pecans for almonds or hazelnuts. You can also add raisins or cranberries for a fruity twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many home cooks forget to measure ingredients correctly. Always level off your flour and sugar for accuracy. Also, don’t skip the creaming step; it adds air to the batter. Let the cake cool for a bit before adding the glaze. This helps the glaze stick better. Lastly, avoid opening the oven door too early. This can cause your cake to sink.
Variations
Gluten-Free Maple Glazed Apple Coffee Cake
To make a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Many brands offer blends that work well in baking. Look for one that has xanthan gum included. This helps the cake rise and stay together. Keep the rest of the recipe the same. You will still enjoy that rich, sweet flavor.
Vegan Alternatives
For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and replace the eggs. A common swap is using flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about five minutes until it thickens. Use coconut oil instead of butter. It gives moisture and flavor. The maple glaze can stay the same since it’s already dairy-free.
Adding Different Fruits or Nuts
You can change the fruit too! Try using pears or peaches for a twist. Diced bananas can add a fun flavor, too. If you like nuts, swap walnuts for almonds or pecans. You can also leave them out if you prefer a nut-free cake. Each change brings a new taste to your coffee cake, keeping it exciting every time you bake!
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storage
To keep your maple glazed apple coffee cake fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps prevent it from drying out. If you use a cake dome, that works too. Always let the cake cool down before sealing it. If you want to keep the glaze nice, place a piece of parchment paper between the cake and the lid.
Reheating Instructions
When you want to enjoy your cake again, you can reheat it easily. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a slice of cake on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warm. You can also use a microwave. Heat for 15 to 20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat it, or it may get dry.
Shelf Life and Freezing Options
Your cake will stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. This will help keep it fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it as mentioned earlier for the best taste.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, you can use any apples you like. I suggest using sweet or tart apples. Varieties like Granny Smith add a nice tang, while Honeycrisp offer sweetness. Each type gives a unique flavor and texture. Just remember to peel and core them before dicing.
How do I know when the coffee cake is done baking?
The best way is to use a toothpick. Insert it into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready. You can also check for a golden color on top. The edges should slightly pull away from the pan.
What can I replace maple syrup with in the glaze?
If you want to swap maple syrup, try using honey or agave syrup. Both will give a nice sweetness. You can also use powdered sugar mixed with milk for a simple glaze. Just adjust the amount to get your desired consistency.
This blog covered how to make a delicious maple glazed apple coffee cake. We explored key ingredients, baking steps, and tips to get the right texture. You learned about variations, like gluten-free and vegan options, and how to store leftovers.
As you try this recipe, remember to have fun and get creative. Your kitchen is a great place for new ideas. Enjoy every bite of your maple glazed apple coffee cake!
