Apple Coffee Cake With Apple Cider Glaze Recipe

This Apple Coffee Cake With Apple Cider Glaze Recipe is an absolute showstopper that brings the cozy essence of autumn right to your kitchen. Imagine biting into a tender, cinnamon-spiced coffee cake bursting with juicy apple chunks, topped with a buttery streusel and finished with a glossy, tangy apple cider glaze that adds a perfect sweet-tart balance. This cake is pure comfort in every bite and makes an ideal companion for your morning coffee or an afternoon treat. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite that fills your home with irresistible aromas and warm vibes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Apple Coffee Cake With Apple Cider Glaze Recipe is in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a vital role. From the fragrant spices that bring warmth, to the tender sour cream that keeps the cake moist, every item is essential for the perfect taste and texture.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that provides structure to the cake while keeping it light.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and become fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with sour cream to create a tender crumb.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds that classic warm spice that pairs beautifully with apples.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: For a subtle earthy note that deepens the flavor.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Gives richness and moisture to the cake.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly without being too much.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall aroma and flavor.
• 1 cup sour cream: Keeps the cake tender and adds a gentle tang.
• 1 1/2 cups diced apples, peeled and cored: The star ingredient, adding juicy bursts and natural sweetness.
• 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed: For the streusel’s lovely caramel notes.
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps create the crumbly texture of the streusel topping.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Gives the streusel an extra spice kick.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Combines with the other streusel ingredients for that perfect crumbly top.
• 1 cup apple cider: The base of the glaze that provides a bright, tangy flavor.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze to a glossy finish.
• Pinch of ground cinnamon: Adds a warm hint that ties the glaze perfectly to the cake’s spices.

How to Make Apple Coffee Cake With Apple Cider Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing a 9-inch round cake pan is essential to prevent sticking and ensure your cake comes out in one beautiful piece. This step sets the stage for a flawless baking experience.

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a medium bowl. Mixing the dry spices evenly with the flour ensures every bite is filled with consistent flavor and that the cake has a beautiful, warm aroma.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until you achieve a light, fluffy texture. This process traps air in the batter, giving your coffee cake the perfect lightness. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition, before folding in vanilla extract for added depth.

Step 4: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your butter mixture, alternating with sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients to maintain balance. This method keeps your batter smooth and fluffy, and the sour cream ensures your cake will be moist and tender.

Step 5: Fold in the Diced Apples

Gently fold the diced apples into the batter. The apples bring fresh bursts of juice and sweetness to the cake, adding both texture and flavor without overpowering the other elements.

Step 6: Transfer Batter to Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. A smooth, level surface helps the cake bake uniformly, so don’t rush this step.

Step 7: Make and Add the Streusel Topping

Mix brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a small bowl for the streusel. Cut in the softened butter until your mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Spread this lovingly over the top of the batter. This streusel topping adds a delightful crunch and extra layer of sweetness once baked.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden and Set

Bake the cake in your preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes. A trusty toothpick test helps you know when it’s done—when it comes out clean, your cake is ready and dreaming of a drizzle of glaze.

Step 9: Prepare the Apple Cider Glaze

While the cake bakes, bring the apple cider to a boil in a small saucepan. Simmer until it reduces by half, concentrating its rich flavor. Take it off the heat and whisk in powdered sugar and a pinch of cinnamon until you achieve a smooth, thick glaze that will perfectly complement your cake.

Step 10: Drizzle the Glaze and Cool

After the cake cools slightly, generously drizzle the apple cider glaze on top. Let the glaze set as the cake cools to room temperature, enhancing every bite with its shiny, flavorful finish.

How to Serve Apple Coffee Cake With Apple Cider Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

For an added touch of elegance and texture, sprinkle some chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top after glazing. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a delicate sweetness and give your presentation that bakery-quality look you will love sharing with guests.

Side Dishes

This coffee cake pairs beautifully with a warm cup of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee. For a brunch spread, consider serving alongside fresh fruit salad or yogurt parfaits to balance the cake’s rich sweetness with refreshing, light accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the cake into generous wedges and serve on rustic wooden boards or vibrant ceramic plates to showcase its homely charm. Want to impress? Plate it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of cinnamon ice cream for a decadent dessert twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container to keep the cake moist and fresh. Stored this way, it will stay delicious for up to 3 days at room temperature.

Freezing

This Apple Coffee Cake With Apple Cider Glaze Recipe freezes very well. Wrap individual slices carefully in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven at 300°F until warmed through. This helps revive the moist crumb and melts the glaze slightly, making it taste freshly baked again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple in this recipe?

Absolutely! Crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith work beautifully, but you can experiment with Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala to adjust the sweetness and texture to your preference.

Is there a substitute for sour cream?

Yes, you can use plain Greek yogurt as a substitute. It will maintain the moisture and tenderness of the cake and add a similar subtle tang.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum or another binder for the best texture.

How long should the glaze set before serving?

Allow the glaze to set for about 30 minutes at room temperature before serving. This helps it thicken nicely and become glossy rather than runny.

Is this cake suitable for freezing after glazing?

It’s best to freeze the cake before adding the glaze. Freeze the plain cake wrapped tightly, then glaze and serve after thawing to keep the glaze fresh and visually appealing.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a cake that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Apple Coffee Cake With Apple Cider Glaze Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s perfectly balanced with fresh apples, rich spices, and a sweet-tangy glaze that transforms simple ingredients into pure delight. Put on your apron, turn on your favorite tunes, and bake this beauty—you’ll be rewarded with smiles, compliments, and maybe even a slice or two saved just for you.

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