Embrace the flavors of fall with this delightful Pecan Apple Crisp Coffee Cake! This recipe seamlessly blends the tastes of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with a moist sour cream coffee cake, all topped off with a buttery pecan streusel. Perfect for a cozy breakfast, a sweet afternoon snack, or an elegant dessert, it’s a versatile treat that’ll impress anyone who takes a bite. The taste of warm spices paired with the crunch of pecans creates a delicious texture that complements the rich coffee cake beautifully.
One of the most appealing aspects of this Pecan Apple Crisp Coffee Cake is its simplicity. You might think such a delectable dish requires hours of effort, but it’s surprisingly easy to make. With just a few steps and ingredients that you likely have in your kitchen, you can whip up this delicious treat in no time. Additionally, the inclusion of sour cream in the batter ensures the cake is moist and rich, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a family gathering, or simply indulging in a sweet treat while enjoying a cup of coffee, this cake is the perfect option. Plus, with the option to drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top, it brings an extra layer of decadence that is hard to resist. Let’s dive into the reasons why you’ll love this recipe and how to prepare it!
Why You’ll Love This Pecan Apple Crisp Coffee Cake
- Flavorful Layers: The combination of spiced apples, buttery pecan streusel, and rich vanilla cake creates a symphony of flavors with each bite.
- Simple Preparation: This coffee cake is straightforward, requiring minimal time and kitchen skills, yet delivering sophisticated results.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion—whether as a breakfast item, dessert, or a sweet snack, it fits any meal of the day.
- Impressive Presentation: The layered appearance and optional caramel drizzle will impress guests and family alike, making it look as good as it tastes.
- Warm & Cozy: This recipe captures the essence of fall, warming your kitchen and heart with its delightful aroma.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the delightful world of baking your Pecan Apple Crisp Coffee Cake, it’s vital to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by ensuring your ingredients are at room temperature; this helps the batter mix better and results in a more uniform texture. You will need measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowls, and a whisk for the dry ingredients.
Make sure to have a 9×13-inch baking pan ready. You can grease it or line it with parchment paper—both methods ensure easy removal of the cake after baking. A good quality mixer (either hand-held or stand) will assist in creaming the butter and sugar, making your life easier. Additionally, you’ll need a knife for slicing the apples and a cutting board to prep them. Once everything is set up, you’ll be ready to create this incredible coffee cake.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3/4 cup butter (softened, plus extra cold for topping)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 medium Granny Smith apples (peeled and thinly sliced)
- 3/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1/3 cup caramel sauce (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Topping
Begin by preparing the pecan streusel topping. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon together. Then, add the chopped pecans to the mix. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture takes on a crumbly consistency. Once ready, put it in the fridge to chill while you move on to the rest of the cake.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
While the streusel cools, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the ideal temperature for ensuring that your cake bakes evenly. Prepare your 9×13-inch pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, contributing to a light cake texture. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, incorporate the sour cream and vanilla extract to enrich the flavor profile of your batter.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This method ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to a denser cake.
Step 5: Layer the Batter and Apples
Spread half of the coffee cake batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out evenly. Next, layer the sliced Granny Smith apples over the batter. The tartness of these apples will perfectly complement the sweetness of the cake. Scoop the remaining batter on top of the apples, spreading it out gently to cover the layers.
Step 6: Add the Streusel Topping
Take the chilled pecan streusel out of the fridge and sprinkle it generously over the top of your cake. Lightly press down on the streusel topping to help it adhere to the batter, which enhances the texture as it bakes.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Step 8: Cool and Drizzle
Once baked, remove the coffee cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes. If desired, finish with a warm caramel sauce drizzle over the top for an indulgent touch. Then transfer to a serving plate, cut into squares, and enjoy!
Variations
- Protein: Add crumbled bacon or sausage for a savory twist that complements the sweetness of the cake.
- Vegetables: Incorporate shredded carrots or zucchini in addition to apples for extra moisture and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with ginger or allspice to adjust the flavor profile to your preference.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure your apples are evenly sliced to bake uniformly.
- This cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy alone with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delicious dessert.
Tips
- Use fresh Granny Smith apples for a perfect blend of tartness and sweetness.
- For an extra crunch, consider toasting the pecans before adding them to the cake.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
FAQs
Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat slightly before serving for the best texture.
Can I substitute other nuts for pecans?
Yes! Walnuts or almonds can be great alternatives if you prefer or have other nuts on hand.
What if I don’t have sour cream?
You can substitute yogurt or buttermilk in equal amounts for a similar texture and flavor.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to three months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion
You’ve just discovered a new favorite recipe with the Pecan Apple Crisp Coffee Cake! Its warm spices and comforting flavors make it the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a bustling morning or a quiet evening dessert. The best part? It’s simple to make and incredibly satisfying to eat. With warm caramel sauce drizzled on top, it’s bound to become a staple in your home. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any variations you try in the comments below! Happy baking!
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Delicious Pecan Apple Crisp Coffee Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Embrace the flavors of fall with this delightful Pecan Apple Crisp Coffee Cake!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3/4 cup butter (softened, plus extra cold for topping)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 medium Granny Smith apples (peeled and thinly sliced)
- 3/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1/3 cup caramel sauce (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the pecan streusel topping. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon together. Then, add the chopped pecans to the mix. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture takes on a crumbly consistency. Once ready, put it in the fridge to chill while you move on to the rest of the cake.
- While the streusel cools, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the ideal temperature for ensuring that your cake bakes evenly. Prepare your 9×13-inch pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, contributing to a light cake texture. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, incorporate the sour cream and vanilla extract to enrich the flavor profile of your batter.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This method ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to a denser cake.
- Spread half of the coffee cake batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out evenly. Next, layer the sliced Granny Smith apples over the batter. The tartness of these apples will perfectly complement the sweetness of the cake. Scoop the remaining batter on top of the apples, spreading it out gently to cover the layers.
- Take the chilled pecan streusel out of the fridge and sprinkle it generously over the top of your cake. Lightly press down on the streusel topping to help it adhere to the batter, which enhances the texture as it bakes.
- Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Once baked, remove the coffee cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes. If desired, finish with a warm caramel sauce drizzle over the top for an indulgent touch. Then transfer to a serving plate, cut into squares, and enjoy!
Notes
This cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Protein: 4 g