Just when you thought your mornings couldn’t get any cozier, along comes this apple oatmeal coffee cake to prove you wrong. Perfect with your first cup of coffee, this cake is a hug in dessert form.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of apples and oatmeal offers a delightful texture and wholesome flavor that’s hard to resist.
- It’s incredibly versatile, serving as a perfect breakfast, brunch, or dessert option.
- The recipe is straightforward, requiring no fancy ingredients or equipment.
- It’s a great way to use up those apples sitting in your fruit bowl.
- The cake stays moist and delicious for days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch square baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing your 9-inch square baking pan. This ensures your cake won’t stick and bakes evenly. Tip: Use parchment paper for even easier removal.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This blend of dry ingredients will give your cake its structure and flavor base.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Pouring the wet ingredients into the dry ones will create a batter that’s just the right consistency. Tip: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
Fold in Apples
Gently fold the diced apples into the batter. This step adds moisture and sweetness to every bite. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen will be your first clue that something delicious is happening. Tip: Let the cake cool for at least 10 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra crunch, sprinkle a mixture of oats and brown sugar on top before baking. If you’re out of apples, pears make a great substitute. To make this cake even more indulgent, serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a healthier version, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar by a quarter cup without compromising the taste.
Recipe Variations
- Add a streusel topping for extra texture and sweetness.
- Incorporate nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy contrast.
- Swap apples for berries in the summer for a seasonal twist.
- Use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Add a teaspoon of nutmeg or allspice for a warmer spice profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s a 1:1 substitute to maintain the cake’s texture. You might also want to add a bit more liquid if the batter seems too thick.
How should I store the leftover cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, quick oats can be used in place of rolled oats, though the texture might be slightly less pronounced. If you prefer a more textured cake, stick with rolled oats.
Summary
This apple oatmeal coffee cake is the perfect blend of wholesome and indulgent, making it a hit for any occasion. Easy to make and even easier to love, it’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.