Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Decadent Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake?
It is a moist, flavorful cake featuring warm spices, tender apples, a crunchy crumble topping, and a sweet brown sugar glaze.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
The recipe requires a total of 17 ingredients, covering the cake batter, the crumble topping, and the glaze.
What type of sugar is used in the batter?
The batter uses 1 1/2 cups of packed light brown sugar.
How should the apples be prepared?
You should use 2 cups of apples that have been peeled, cored, and chopped.
What provides the moisture in the cake batter?
The moisture comes from 1 cup of sour cream, 8 tablespoons of softened butter, and 2 large eggs.
What are the ingredients for the crumble topping?
The topping consists of 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 4 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter.
How do you make the brown sugar glaze?
The glaze is made by mixing 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of water.
Is there cinnamon in the cake itself?
Yes, there is 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in the cake batter and an additional 1/2 teaspoon in the crumble topping.
Should the butter be melted or softened?
The butter should be softened for both the cake batter and the crumble topping.
Can this recipe be made gluten-friendly?
While the recipe calls for all-purpose flour, it is tagged as gluten-friendly, implying you can substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
Is the flour sifted before measuring?
The recipe specifies using 2 cups of sifted all-purpose flour for the main cake batter.
What leavening agent is used?
The cake uses 1 teaspoon of baking soda as the primary leavening agent.
How many eggs are needed?
You will need 2 large eggs, which should be beaten before being added to the batter.
Does the recipe contain salt?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of salt is included in the batter to balance the sweetness.
When is the best time to serve this cake?
It is perfect for brunch, afternoon tea, or as a dessert for any gathering.
What is the texture of the topping?
The topping is a classic crumble that provides a crunchy contrast to the moist cake.
Can I use vanilla extract in the glaze?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract is used specifically to flavor the brown sugar glaze.
Should I use unsalted or salted butter?
The recipe specifically calls for unsalted butter for both the batter and the topping.
Can I serve the cake warm?
Yes, the cake can be enjoyed either warm or at room temperature.
What type of brown sugar is best?
The recipe recommends using light brown sugar for the batter, topping, and glaze.
Is there any coffee in the coffee cake?
No, like most coffee cakes, this recipe does not contain coffee; it is intended to be served alongside coffee.
How much vanilla is used in total?
A total of 1.5 teaspoons of vanilla is used: 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract in the batter and 0.5 teaspoons in the glaze.
Can I add nuts to the crumble?
While not in the original ingredients, chopped pecans or walnuts would make a great addition to the crumble topping.
What makes this a 'comfort food'?
The combination of warm cinnamon, soft baked apples, and a sweet glaze creates a classic, cozy comfort food profile.
What category does this recipe fall under?
This recipe is categorized as a dessert and a brunch item.
Is the glaze thick?
The glaze is made with brown sugar and a small amount of water (2 tablespoons), making it a thin, pourable luscious finish.
Can I substitute the sour cream?
Full-fat Greek yogurt is often a successful substitute for sour cream in coffee cake recipes.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include coffee cake, apple cake, dessert, baking, brunch, cinnamon, gluten-friendly, homemade, and comfort food.
Is the apple amount measured before or after chopping?
The 2 cups measurement refers to the apples after they have been peeled, cored, and chopped.
Is this a homemade recipe?
Yes, it is a completely homemade recipe designed to be shared with family and friends.