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This apple coffee cake combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples with a creamy cheesecake filling and crunchy oat topping. The layers create a beautiful texture contrast in every bite, making it perfect for fall gatherings or weekend brunches with family.
I first created this cake when hosting a fall brunch for friends and it's become my signature autumn dessert. The way the kitchen fills with the aroma of baking apples and cinnamon brings everyone to the table before I even announce it's ready.
Ingredients
- All purpose flour: Provides structure for both the cake and crisp topping
- Brown sugar: Adds depth and moisture throughout all layers
- Sour cream: Creates an incredibly tender cake crumb
- Cream cheese: Delivers that perfect tangy filling reminiscent of cheesecake
- Golden Delicious and Gala apples: Offer the ideal balance of sweetness and structure
- Cinnamon: Appears in multiple layers ensuring warmth in every bite
- Rolled oats: Create that essential crispy textured topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the pan:
- Line a 9 inch springform pan with parchment and thoroughly grease sides. Proper preparation prevents sticking and allows for beautiful presentation when removed.
- Mix the crisp topping:
- Combine dry ingredients thoroughly before adding melted butter. The mixture should form small clumps when pressed between fingers. This topping provides the delightful textural contrast.
- Create the cinnamon sugar:
- Whisking the brown sugar and cinnamon ensures even distribution throughout the cake layers. This simple mixture delivers big flavor impact.
- Prepare the apples:
- Cut apples into small uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Toss with cinnamon and sugar immediately to prevent browning and enhance flavor.
- Make the cake batter:
- Cream room temperature butter with sugar until light and fluffy which incorporates air for proper rise. Add eggs one at a time allowing each to fully incorporate.
- Prepare cream cheese filling:
- Beat cream cheese until completely smooth to avoid lumps in your filling. Add remaining ingredients and mix just until combined to prevent incorporating excess air.
- Layer assembly:
- Begin with cake batter followed by apples cinnamon sugar cream cheese and repeat. This careful layering creates distinct flavor zones in each slice.
- Bake with patience:
- This dense cake requires longer baking time. Look for a clean toothpick test and golden brown top. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
- Final touches:
- Allow proper cooling time before removing springform ring. The glaze adds sweetness and visual appeal as the finishing touch.
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The cream cheese filling is truly what elevates this from a standard coffee cake to something extraordinary. I discovered this technique from my grandmother who always said a good coffee cake should have a surprise in the middle. Her wisdom holds true as everyone asks about my secret ingredient after the first bite.
Storage Tips
This cake maintains its freshness for up to a week when properly stored. Keep tightly covered in the refrigerator after the first day. The flavors actually develop and improve after 24 hours making it perfect for advance preparation. Allow refrigerated slices to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for best flavor and texture.
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Seasonal Variations
Adapt this recipe throughout the year by substituting different fruits. In summer try peaches or blueberries reducing the baking time slightly as these fruits contain more moisture. For winter holidays pears work beautifully with a touch of cardamom added to the spice mix. The basic structure remains the same while the flavor profile shifts with the seasons.
Serving Suggestions
While delicious on its own this coffee cake reaches new heights when served slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. For breakfast consider a dollop of Greek yogurt alongside. Coffee is the traditional pairing but I find a cup of spiced chai tea complements the flavors beautifully especially during fall months.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of apple for this cake?
Yes, you can use any firm and sweet apple variety like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith for this cake. Experiment for your preferred flavor and texture.
- → How should I store this cake?
Keep the cake at room temperature for one day, or cover and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week for freshness.
- → Can I prepare the components ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apple filling, crisp topping, and cheesecake filling a day ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to assemble and bake.
- → How can I prevent the top from overbrowning?
If you notice the top browning too quickly, cover the cake loosely with aluminum foil halfway through the baking process.
- → What’s the best way to drizzle the glaze?
Use a spoon or a piping bag to drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled cake for the perfect finishing touch.