Apple Fritter Coffee Cake is the perfect blend of sweet and comforting. The warm flavors of honey crisp apples and cinnamon come together to create a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re enjoying a cozy morning at home, hosting a brunch, or simply looking for a sweet snack, this cake has you covered. With its crumbly streusel topping and delicious glaze, every bite will remind you of your favorite apple fritters—but in cake form!
What You’ll Need for Apple Fritter Coffee Cake
To make this scrumptious treat, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Apple Filling:
- 3 large honey crisp apples (around 350 grams), peeled and grated
- 40 grams granulated sugar (about 3 tablespoons)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 pinch fine sea salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
For the Streusel Topping:
- 100 grams salted butter (softened, about 7 tablespoons)
- 100 grams dark brown sugar (about 1/2 cup)
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 160 grams all-purpose flour (about 1 cup)
For the Cake Batter:
- 160 grams salted butter (softened, about 1 cup)
- 100 grams granulated sugar (about 1/2 cup)
- 60 grams dark brown sugar (about 1/4 cup)
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 250 grams all-purpose flour (about 2 cups)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 350 grams grated honey crisp apple (from the filling)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Glaze:
- 100 grams powdered sugar (about 3/4 cup)
- 40 grams salted butter (melted, about 3 tablespoons)
- 50 grams maple syrup (about 1/4 cup, more as needed)
- 1/2 tablespoon flaky sea salt
Cooking Apple Fritter Coffee Cake: Step by Step
Follow these simple steps to create your Apple Fritter Coffee Cake:
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Prepare the Apple Filling: In a bowl, combine the grated honey crisp apples, granulated sugar, lemon juice, fine sea salt, and ground cinnamon. Mix thoroughly and set aside. This lets the flavors meld.
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Make the Streusel Topping: In a medium bowl, beat together softened butter, dark brown sugar, fine sea salt, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until creamy. Gradually add flour, mixing until blended. Set aside.
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Create the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, cream together the softened salted butter, granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, and fine sea salt until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well-incorporated before adding the next.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture in three additions, alternating with the grated apple and lemon juice. Mix until just combined, but don’t overwork the batter.
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Assemble the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. Pour half the batter into the prepared pan, followed by the apple filling, and then the remaining batter. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the top.
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Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan before glazing.
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Add the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, maple syrup, and flaky sea salt until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake just before serving.
How to Serve Apple Fritter Coffee Cake
There’s something special about sharing a slice of Apple Fritter Coffee Cake with friends and family. Serve it warm, alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate it to dessert status! For a fun twist, top with additional grated apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Helpful Tricks for Apple Fritter Coffee Cake
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Choose the Right Apples: Honey crisp apples work best due to their sweetness and crisp texture. However, feel free to mix in other varieties like Granny Smith for added tartness.
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Make It Ahead: This cake can be baked a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature and glaze before serving.
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Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the batter or glaze. You can always taste as you go!
Apple Fritter Coffee Cake: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of apples?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other varieties such as Fuji or Gala, keeping in mind that tart apples may need slightly more sugar.
Can I freeze Apple Fritter Coffee Cake?
Yes, this cake freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and glaze just before enjoying.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week. The flavors will only get better!
Apple Fritter Coffee Cake is a wonderful recipe that captures the essence of comfort food! Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, you’re sure to delight everyone with this delicious cake. Give it a try, and let the warm flavors of apple and cinnamon fill your home! Enjoy every bite!