5 Star Apple Coffee Cake Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Hey there, fellow food lover! If you’re on the hunt for a mouthwatering treat that combines the warm, cozy flavors of apples with the rich, comforting vibes of coffee cake, then you’ve struck gold. Today, we’re talking about the 5 Star Apple Coffee Cake – a recipe that’s nothing short of a showstopper. Imagine biting into a tender, buttery cake that’s swirled with cinnamon-spiced apples, topped with a perfectly crunchy streusel that adds that irresistible texture contrast.

This cake isn’t just any coffee cake; it’s the kind that’ll have your friends and family asking for seconds (and thirds). Whether you’re baking for a lazy weekend brunch, a festive gathering, or simply because you deserve a little homemade joy, this apple coffee cake will deliver. So, buckle up, and let’s get ready to bake a slice of heaven!

5 Star Apple Coffee Cake Recipe

This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience. Picture:

• Soft, moist cake layers that melt in your mouth.
• Tart and sweet apples perfectly baked into the batter.
• A warm, fragrant cinnamon swirl that runs through the middle.
• A golden, crumbly streusel topping that’s crispy and sweet.
• The delightful aroma filling your kitchen, promising comfort and indulgence.

Trust me, this recipe has been tested and loved, earning its ’5 Star’ title because it consistently wows taste buds every single time.

Ingredients Needed

Let’s talk ingredients – because a fantastic cake starts with top-notch basics. Here’s what you’ll need:

For The Cake

• All-purpose flour (about 2 ½ cups) – the foundation for your tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar (¾ cup) – adds sweetness and structure.
• Brown sugar (½ cup, packed) – for that deep caramel flavor.
• Baking powder (1 tsp) and baking soda (½ tsp) – the leavening agents that give lift and fluffiness.
• Salt (½ tsp) – to balance the sweetness and enhance flavors.
• Ground cinnamon (2 tsp) – the star spice pairing with apples.
• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened) – for richness and moisture.
• Eggs (2 large) – binding everything together.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – aromatic sweetness.
• Sour cream (1 cup) – adds moisture and a slight tang for tenderness.
• Apples (2 medium-sized, peeled, cored, and diced) – tart and fresh, Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully.

For The Streusel Topping

• Brown sugar (½ cup, packed)
• All-purpose flour (⅓ cup)
• Ground cinnamon (1 tsp)
• Cold unsalted butter (6 tbsp, cubed)
• Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, ½ cup) – for added crunch and nuttiness.

How To Make 5 Star Apple Coffee Cake

Alright, this is where the magic happens. Follow these steps, and you’ll be rewarded with pure apple coffee cake bliss:

1. Prep your oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Make The Streusel Topping

   • In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nuts (if using).
   • Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Set this aside in the fridge to keep it chilled and crumbly.

3. Mix The Dry Ingredients

   • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

4. Cream The Butter And Sugars

   • In another bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy – this takes about 3-4 minutes. This step is key for a tender crumb!

5. Add Eggs And Vanilla

   • Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
   • Stir in vanilla extract.

6. Incorporate The Dry Ingredients And Sour Cream

   • Alternately add the dry ingredients and sour cream to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix just until combined-don’t overmix or your cake could get tough.

7. Fold In The Apples

   • Gently fold the diced apples into the batter, making sure they’re evenly distributed.

8. Assemble

   • Pour half of the batter into your prepared pan.
   • Sprinkle half of the streusel over the batter.
   • Spread the remaining batter on top, smoothing the surface.
   • Finish by sprinkling the remaining streusel over everything.

9. Bake

   • Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

10. Serve & Enjoy

    • Best enjoyed slightly warm with a cup of coffee or tea, but honestly, it’s delicious anytime!

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Now, let’s geek out a bit about why these ingredients work so well:

• Butter and sugar creaming: Beating butter and sugar incorporates air, which helps the cake rise and gives it that light, fluffy texture. It’s the secret behind many tender cakes.
• Sour cream: This adds acidity, which tenderizes the gluten in the flour. It also contributes moisture, making the cake incredibly soft and rich.
• Baking soda and baking powder: These work together to leaven the cake. Baking soda reacts with the sour cream’s acidity to create bubbles, while baking powder provides extra lift for a perfect crumb.
• Cinnamon and apples: Cinnamon doesn’t just add warmth and spice – it actually enhances the perception of sweetness, so you get that comforting flavor without overwhelming sugar.
• Cold butter in streusel: Keeps the topping crumbly, not greasy. The butter melts during baking, creating pockets of crispiness.

Expert Tips

Want to take your apple coffee cake from great to legendary? Here are some pro pointers:

• Use fresh, crisp apples – softer apples can turn mushy during baking. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal for their balance of tartness and firmness.
• Don’t overmix the batter – mix just until combined to keep the cake tender.
• Chill the streusel – this keeps it crumbly and prevents it from melting into the cake.
• Test for doneness carefully – ovens vary! Start checking at 40 minutes by inserting a toothpick near the center.
• Let it cool slightly – cutting too soon can cause the cake to crumble or stick.
• Add a dash of nutmeg or allspice for a flavor twist in the batter or streusel if you want to jazz things up.

Recipe Variations

Feel like getting creative? Here’s how you can switch things up without losing the essence of this classic:

• Swap apples for pears or peaches for a seasonal twist.
• Add raisins or dried cranberries to the batter for bursts of sweetness.
• Use walnuts or pecans in the streusel or sprinkle chopped nuts on top for extra texture.
• Drizzle a simple vanilla or caramel glaze over the cooled cake for added decadence.
• Make it gluten-free by swapping the flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the batter or streusel for a grown-up flavor boost.

Final Words

There you have it – a recipe that’s as rich in flavor as it is in tradition and comfort. The 5 Star Apple Coffee Cake is a perfect marriage of crisp apples, warm spices, and tender crumb that’ll become a staple in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward yet delivers bakery-quality results every time.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For A 5 Star Apple Coffee Cake Recipe?

The main ingredients typically include apples, all-purpose flour, sugar, butter, eggs, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, vanilla extract, and sometimes sour cream or yogurt for moisture.

What Type Of Apples Work Best In A 5 Star Apple Coffee Cake?

Firm and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal because they hold their shape well and provide a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.

How Do I Ensure My Apple Coffee Cake Turns Out Moist And Flavorful?

Using ingredients like sour cream or yogurt adds moisture, while cinnamon and vanilla extract enhance flavor. Avoid overbaking and test with a toothpick for doneness.

Can I Make The Apple Coffee Cake Ahead Of Time?

Yes, the cake can be baked a day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated. Reheat gently before serving for best texture.

Is It Possible To Make This Recipe Gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free, you can make a gluten-free version.

What Variations Can I Try With The 5 Star Apple Coffee Cake Recipe?

You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans, swap apples for pears, include a streusel topping, or drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk.

How Long Does The Apple Coffee Cake Typically Take To Bake?

Baking usually takes about 40 to 50 minutes at 350°F (175°C), but times may vary depending on oven calibration and pan size. Always check with a toothpick.

What Type Of Pan Is Best For Baking Apple Coffee Cake?

An 8×8 or 9×9 inch square baking pan is commonly used, but round cake pans or bundt pans can also work well for this recipe.

Can I Freeze The 5 Star Apple Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cooled cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.

How Do I Prevent The Apples From Making The Cake Soggy?

Toss the apple slices in a bit of flour or cinnamon-sugar mixture before folding into the batter. This helps absorb excess moisture and prevents sogginess.