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Apple Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Pecan Topping Recipe


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4.1 from 76 reviews

  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 9 servings

Description

This Apple Coffee Cake is a moist and tender dessert combining a rich sour cream batter with tart apples and a crunchy, spiced pecan topping. Baked to golden perfection, it offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors that make it an ideal treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack with coffee or tea.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped peeled tart apples

Topping

  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon apple pie spice


Instructions

  1. Make the batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using a hand or stand mixer on high speed for 5 to 7 minutes until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
  2. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
  3. Mix dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the creamed butter mixture alternately with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl occasionally to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated without overmixing.
  4. Fold in apples: Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the chopped tart apples into the batter until they are evenly dispersed throughout.
  5. Prepare the pan and pour batter: Grease a 9-inch square baking pan thoroughly. Pour the batter into the pan and spread it evenly to cover all four corners and edges.
  6. Make and add topping: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, chopped pecans, softened butter, and apple pie spice. Mix until well blended. Scatter this topping evenly over the batter in the baking pan.
  7. Bake the cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid baking until the toothpick is completely clean to retain moisture in the cake.
  8. Cool and serve: Remove the coffee cake from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.

Notes

  • Cream the butter and sugar thoroughly (5-7 minutes) to achieve a lighter, more tender cake texture.
  • Use tart apples for a pleasant balance of sweetness and acidity.
  • Do not overbake; the cake should still have a few moist crumbs on the toothpick for moistness.
  • Let the cake cool before serving to allow flavors to meld and for easier slicing.
  • This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, making it an ideal breakfast or snack option.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American