Name: Brown Butter Apple Coffee Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 cup All Purpose Flour; ½ cup Packed Brown Sugar; 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon Salt; 6 tablespoons Salted Butter, melted; 1 cup Unsweetened Applesauce; 2 eggs Eggs; ½ cup Pure Maple Syrup; 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract; 1¾ cups All Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; ½ teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Cinnamon; ½ teaspoon Allspice; ½ teaspoon Ginger; ¼ teaspoon Nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon Salt; 1 medium Honeycrisp Apple, peeled and chopped; 2 tablespoons Butter, melted; ¾ cup Powdered Sugar; ½ teaspoon Vanilla Extract; Pinch Cinnamon; 1-2 tablespoons Milk (to thin glaze)

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There’s something so comforting about a slice of warm cake, especially when it’s a Brown Butter Apple Coffee Cake. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of the rich, nutty brown butter mingling with sweet cinnamon and fresh apples filled my kitchen, wrapping me in a warm embrace. It was a chilly fall afternoon, and as I pulled the golden cake from the oven, I couldn’t help but think of all the cozy moments ahead, gathered around the table with family and friends, sharing slices and laughter. This cake was going to be a favorite.

As the cake cooled, I whipped up a simple glaze to drizzle over the top. The excitement of that first bite was palpable. It was everything I hoped for: moist, flavorful, and beautifully textured, thanks to the crunchy streusel topping. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just indulging yourself on a quiet afternoon, the Brown Butter Apple Coffee Cake is the perfect companion to a hot cup of coffee or tea. Let me take you on a journey through this delightful recipe that I promise will become a staple in your kitchen.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 15 mins

Prep Time:
30 mins

Cook Time:
45 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Wooden Spoon, Peeler, Whisk, Baking Sheet, Skillet, Food Processor, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan

Why You Need This Brown Butter Apple Coffee Cake

Deliciously Moist Texture

The first thing that stands out about this Brown Butter Apple Coffee Cake is its moist and tender crumb. The secret lies in the combination of unsweetened applesauce and melted butter, which together create richness without being too heavy. Each bite is an experience, with the cake melting in your mouth beautifully.

Nutty Flavor from Brown Butter

Brown butter is a game-changer in baking. The toasty aroma and deep flavor enhance the cake’s profile, adding a lovely nuttiness that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the apples. It’s such a simple technique, yet it transforms this cake into something extraordinary.

Cinnamon and Spice Harmony

The blend of spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg not only makes the cake aromatic but also warms the soul. These warm spices complement the sweetness of the apples, creating a delightful harmony that makes you crave more.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This cake isn’t just for breakfast or brunch; it’s a versatile treat that can be served at any gathering, from festive holidays to casual get-togethers. It’s an easy way to impress guests while being incredibly comforting at home.

Streusel Topping Crunch

The streusel topping adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to the cake. With its buttery and cinnamon-infused crumble, each bite of the cake is enhanced by this wonderful texture. It’s a simple addition that goes a long way in elevating the dessert.

Easy to Make

With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, this recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. You won’t find any complicated techniques here; just deliciousness waiting to happen!

Ingredients Required for Brown Butter Apple Coffee Cake

The ingredients for this Brown Butter Apple Coffee Cake are simple yet effective, creating a delightful flavor that everyone will love. The combination of flour, applesauce, and apples serves as the heart of this cake, while brown sugar and cinnamon provide warmth and sweetness. Let’s dive into each ingredient to understand their roles better!

All Purpose Flour: 1 cup (120g) is used for the topping and streusel, creating a light base that helps bind the cake together.
Packed Brown Sugar: ½ cup (107g) adds sweetness and moisture, making the cake rich and flavorful.
Ground Cinnamon: 2 teaspoons enhance the warm spices, bringing a cozy aroma to the cake.
Salt: ¼ teaspoon balances the flavors, enhancing the overall taste of the cake.
Salted Butter: 6 tablespoons, melted for the streusel, gives richness and flavor.
Unsweetened Applesauce: 1 cup (250g) replaces some fat, keeping the cake moist without being heavy.
Eggs: 2 add structure and richness to the cake.
Pure Maple Syrup: ½ cup (156g) brings a delightful sweetness and depth of flavor.
Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon helps the cake rise and creates a fluffy texture.
Baking Soda: ½ teaspoon works alongside the baking powder for extra lift.
Allspice: ½ teaspoon contributes to the warm, spiced flavor profile.
Ground Ginger: ½ teaspoon adds warmth and complements the apples beautifully.
Nutmeg: ¼ teaspoon gives a hint of earthiness that enhances the overall flavor.
Chopped Honeycrisp Apple: 1 medium, about 1 cup, adds fresh sweetness and texture to the cake.
Powdered Sugar: ¾ cup (85g) for the glaze gives sweetness and a lovely finish.
Milk: 1-2 tablespoons thins the glaze, providing the perfect consistency for drizzling.

Directions for Brown Butter Apple Coffee Cake

Making the Brown Butter Apple Coffee Cake is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Let’s walk through the steps together, ensuring you capture the essence of this wonderful cake.

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. This will ensure your cake comes out easily and stays moist.
Make the streusel first: In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add in the melted butter and stir together with a fork until it forms clumps resembling wet sand. You might need to use your hands to create nice thick crumbs. Once done, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.
Next, let’s make the brown butter: Add ? cup of butter to a large saucepan or skillet set over medium heat. The butter will begin to melt and crackle, eventually foaming. Stir constantly. After a few minutes, it will brown and turn a lovely amber color, releasing a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes.
In a large bowl, mix the applesauce, eggs, maple syrup, and cooled brown butter until well combined. This mixture will add moisture and depth of flavor to your cake.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the remaining flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, allspice, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Add these dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix. Finally, gently fold in the chopped apple.
To assemble the cake, pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle with half of the streusel mixture, then add half of the remaining batter on top, followed by the rest of the streusel. This layering will create a beautiful texture.
Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until a tester comes out clean with just a few crumbs attached. The cake should be golden brown and fragrant.
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 30 minutes before glazing.
To prepare the glaze, in a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and enough milk to reach your desired consistency. Drizzle the glaze back and forth over the cake. You can adjust the amount of milk for a thicker or thinner glaze.
Finally, cut the cake into 12 slices and enjoy! Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for 1 to 2 days, then transfer to the fridge for up to a week. This cake only gets better as the flavors meld together!

Things Worth Knowing

Don’t skip browning the butter, as it adds depth and flavor. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Let the cake cool before glazing to allow the glaze to set perfectly.
Use fresh apples for the best flavor; a Honeycrisp is ideal for sweetness and texture.
For a twist, try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the streusel for extra crunch.

Recipe Tips about Brown Butter Apple Coffee Cake

This Brown Butter Apple Coffee Cake is full of delicious potential! Here are some tips to make it even better:

Storage: Keep leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. After that, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing: You can freeze slices of the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
Pairing: This cake goes wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Serving Suggestion: For a cozy brunch, serve slices with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Variations: Consider adding a handful of butterscotch chips or nuts to the batter for a fun flavor twist.
Dairy Free Option: Replace regular butter with vegan butter for a dairy-free version.

Serve This Brown Butter Apple Coffee Cake With

This Brown Butter Apple Coffee Cake is incredibly versatile and can be served in various delightful ways:

Breakfast Delight: Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or tea for a perfect breakfast treat.
Brunch Favorite: Serve it at brunch gatherings alongside fresh fruits and pastries.
Afternoon Snack: Pair it with a cup of herbal tea for a comforting afternoon break.
Holiday Dessert: This cake is perfect for fall holidays, making it a great addition to your Thanksgiving table.
With Ice Cream: A warm slice of cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a heavenly pairing.
Seasonal Fruit: Serve with sliced apples or pears to enhance the flavors.
Picnic Treat: Slice it up for a picnic, it’s easy to pack and always a hit!

FAQ

Yes, you can use different varieties of apples for your Brown Butter Apple Coffee Cake. While Honeycrisp apples are wonderful for their sweetness and texture, you could also try Granny Smith for a tart contrast or Fuji for a sweeter option. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even distribution throughout the cake.

Leftover Brown Butter Apple Coffee Cake can be stored covered at room temperature for one to two days. After that, transfer it to the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can easily make your own by combining regular granulated sugar with a bit of molasses. For every cup of white sugar, add about one tablespoon of molasses. Mix thoroughly until it resembles brown sugar. Alternatively, you can just use granulated sugar, though it won’t add the same depth of flavor.

Absolutely! To make your Brown Butter Apple Coffee Cake dairy-free, substitute regular butter with vegan butter. Just use it as is and skip the browning step. The cake will still be deliciously moist with all the wonderful flavors intact.

Conclusion

The Brown Butter Apple Coffee Cake is a true embodiment of comfort food, merging the flavors of warm spices and sweet apples into a moist cake. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try and share it with your loved ones; the smiles it brings are priceless!