Indulge in the comforting embrace of this Old-Fashioned Applesauce Coffee Cake, a truly delightful treat that perfectly blends moist, subtly spiced cake with a heavenly, buttery pecan streusel topping. Whether you’re seeking the ideal companion to your morning coffee or a decadent dessert to crown a special meal, this recipe delivers an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. Imagine a tender crumb, infused with the natural sweetness of applesauce and warm spices, complemented by the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans in a golden streusel. This versatile cake is more than just a breakfast item; it’s a culinary hug that promises to brighten any moment.
The Irresistible Charm of Applesauce Coffee Cake
There’s something uniquely comforting and utterly delicious about a well-made coffee cake. It’s often my go-to choice for a relaxed brunch or a sweet pick-me-up during the day. The magic lies in the harmony of simple, wholesome ingredients transforming into a cake that is both soft and incredibly moist, perfectly spiced, and exceptionally flavorful. Paired with a steaming cup of coffee or tea, it creates a moment of pure bliss. For many, including myself, the crowning glory of any coffee cake is its sweet, crunchy topping. That buttery streusel, often laden with nuts and cinnamon, provides a delightful contrast to the tender cake beneath, making every bite an experience to savor. This particular Applesauce Coffee Cake elevates that experience with its unique apple-infused moistness and a generous pecan streusel.
Crafting Applesauce Coffee Cake from Scratch
The secret to this coffee cake’s exceptional moistness and rich flavor truly lies in the applesauce. While store-bought applesauce works perfectly fine, opting for homemade cinnamon applesauce can elevate the taste profile significantly, adding a natural sweetness and a deeper, more aromatic spice. Applesauce plays a crucial role beyond just flavor; it acts as a fantastic natural moisturizer in baking, often used as a healthy substitute for eggs, oil, or butter. This allows for a lighter cake without sacrificing any of its tender crumb.
If you choose store-bought applesauce, remember that it often lacks the cinnamon found in homemade versions. A simple addition of half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon stirred into the store-bought variety will bring it closer to the desired flavor profile. Always opt for unsweetened applesauce to control the sugar level in your cake, ensuring it’s perfectly balanced and not overly sweet. For those who adore the warm, comforting flavors of apple desserts, this applesauce coffee cake is just the beginning. Be sure to explore other delightful recipes like Fresh Apple Cake, the classic Apple Kuchen (German Apple Cake), and the irresistible Caramel Apple Tea Cake for more apple-infused baking adventures.
Versatile Baking Options for Your Coffee Cake
One of the many wonderful aspects of this Applesauce Coffee Cake recipe is its adaptability to different baking pans and occasions. While I prefer baking this rich cake in a classic square pan, its versatility extends to various other forms. A springform pan can provide a beautiful presentation, especially if you plan to unmold the cake for a special gathering. Alternatively, a decorative bundt pan will create an elegant, fluted cake that’s sure to impress. Remember that while any pan type will work, it’s essential to be mindful of potential adjustments to baking time, as deeper or wider pans might require slightly longer or shorter durations.
For a more casual approach or convenient individual servings, consider transforming the cake batter into delicious Applesauce Coffee Cake muffins. Simply pour the batter into a muffin tray, adjusting the baking time accordingly (typically 20-25 minutes). These individual portions are perfect for on-the-go breakfasts, school lunchboxes, or as a charming addition to any brunch buffet. They offer all the beloved flavors of the larger cake in a portable, easy-to-serve format, making them a fantastic option for busy mornings or entertaining guests.
Essential Ingredients for Your Applesauce Coffee Cake
Creating this flavorful and moist Applesauce Coffee Cake begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the perfect texture and taste. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each element is important:
- All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our cake and streusel, all-purpose flour provides the necessary structure. Its balanced protein content ensures a tender cake crumb and a perfectly crumbly streusel.
- Brown Sugar: I prefer brown sugar over white sugar in this recipe for its rich, molasses-like flavor and its ability to contribute to the cake’s moistness. It adds a deeper caramel note that beautifully complements the applesauce and cinnamon.
- Butter: For both the cake and the streusel, cold, cubed salted butter is ideal. Using cold butter helps create a flaky, crumbly streusel and a richer cake. If using unsalted butter, you may want to add a pinch more salt to the recipe to balance the flavors.
- Pecans: Chopped pecans are a non-negotiable for that signature crunchy texture and nutty flavor in the streusel topping. They toast beautifully during baking, releasing their aromatic oils and adding an extra layer of decadence.
- Ground Cinnamon: This warm spice is central to the “old-fashioned” appeal of this coffee cake. It infuses both the cake batter and the streusel topping with an inviting aroma and a comforting, sweet-spicy taste.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leavening agents work in tandem to give the cake its light, airy, and fluffy texture. They react with the acidic applesauce and other ingredients to create gas, causing the cake to rise beautifully.
- Eggs: Beaten eggs act as a binder, helping to hold the cake ingredients together and adding to its structure and richness. Room temperature eggs blend more easily into the batter, ensuring a smooth, uniform mix.
- Cinnamon Applesauce: As the star ingredient, homemade cinnamon applesauce brings natural sweetness, a wonderful apple flavor, and incredible moisture. If using store-bought, opt for unsweetened and consider adding a dash of cinnamon for enhanced flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: A touch of real vanilla extract enhances all the other flavors, adding a subtle warmth and depth to the cake. While artificial vanilla works, pure vanilla extract offers a more nuanced and aromatic profile.
Keep reading for essential tips, creative substitutions, and answers to common questions about perfecting this easy applesauce coffee cake.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Applesauce Coffee Cake
Making this delightful Applesauce Coffee Cake is a straightforward process with just a few key steps. Follow these instructions to bring this moist and flavorful cake to life:
- Prepare Your Oven and Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×9 inch baking dish or square pan with non-stick cooking spray, ensuring the cake won’t stick.
- Create the Streusel Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold, cubed butter with brown sugar and ¾ cup of the all-purpose flour. Using a pastry blender, a fork, or even your fingertips, work the ingredients together until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This is the foundation for both your cake and the streusel topping.
- Assemble the Pecan Streusel Topping: Remove ½ cup of the crumb mixture and transfer it to a small bowl. To this, add the chopped pecans and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Mix gently to combine these ingredients. This aromatic blend is your delicious streusel topping, which you’ll set aside for later.
- Prepare the Cake Batter: Return to the large bowl containing the remaining crumb mixture. Add the rest of the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and the remaining cinnamon. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly. Then, incorporate the wet ingredients: the beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon applesauce. Beat the mixture until the cake batter is smooth and well combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Bake to Perfection: Pour the smooth cake batter evenly into your prepared baking dish. Gently sprinkle the reserved pecan streusel topping over the entire surface of the batter.
- Bake and Test: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack. While it’s tempting to dive in immediately, letting it cool slightly helps the cake set and intensifies its flavors.
This Applesauce Coffee Cake is delightful when served warm, allowing the spices and apple flavor to truly shine, but it’s equally delicious at room temperature. For an extra touch of indulgence, consider serving a slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, transforming it into an elegant dessert.
Storing Your Delicious Applesauce Coffee Cake
To keep your leftover Applesauce Coffee Cake fresh and moist, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Alternatively, you can simply cover the baking pan tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you wish to enjoy this delightful treat for longer, it freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the entire cooled cake securely in plastic wrap, then a layer of aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature. A quick warming in the microwave or oven can bring back that freshly baked feel.
Love this Recipe? Pin It for Later!
If you’re as enchanted by this old-fashioned applesauce coffee cake recipe as we are, make sure you don’t lose track of it! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board now so it’s always ready for your next baking inspiration. Share the love and let others discover this incredibly moist and flavorful treat!
Creative Substitutions for Your Coffee Cake
Don’t be afraid to experiment with this recipe to tailor it to your personal taste and dietary needs. Baking is all about creativity and making a dish truly your own! Here are a few ideas for substitutions:
- Topping Variations: Instead of the pecan streusel, dust the cooled cake generously with powdered sugar for a simpler, elegant finish. You could also try a light glaze made from powdered sugar and a splash of milk or apple cider.
- Nut Alternatives: If pecans aren’t available or preferred, chopped walnuts are an excellent substitute, offering a similar crunch and earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with apple and cinnamon. Almonds could also work for a different texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this a gluten-free applesauce coffee cake, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a good quality 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure your blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
- Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based butter substitute and a dairy-free applesauce.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Easy Applesauce Coffee Cake
Got questions about baking with applesauce or coffee cake in general? Here are some common queries answered to help you master this delightful recipe:
- What does applesauce replace in a cake? Applesauce is incredibly versatile in baking. It can effectively replace eggs, oil, or butter in a cake recipe. When used as an egg substitute, it typically provides binding and moisture. As an oil or butter replacement, it drastically reduces fat content while maintaining a tender and moist crumb.
- Why add applesauce to cake? Adding applesauce to a cake is a fantastic way to introduce significant moisture and a subtle, natural sweetness without relying heavily on added sugars or fats. It also imparts a delicate fruity flavor that complements various spices, especially cinnamon and nutmeg.
- What is the difference between crumble cake and coffee cake? While often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences. Traditionally, crumble cake (or crumb cake) is characterized by a denser cake base and a very thick, generous layer of streusel or crumb topping. Coffee cake, on the other hand, typically features a lighter, fluffier cake texture and a more modest (though still delicious) streusel or glaze topping. This Applesauce Coffee Cake leans towards the moist and tender side, with a substantial, satisfying pecan streusel.
- Can I use applesauce instead of an egg in a cake mix? Absolutely! Applesauce is a popular and effective egg substitute in many cake mixes. For every 1 egg required, use ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce. Using unsweetened applesauce is key to prevent your cake from becoming excessively sweet, allowing you to control the sugar balance.
Expert Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Applesauce Coffee Cake
To ensure your Applesauce Coffee Cake turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips and tricks in mind:
- Streamline Streusel Creation: For a quick and effortless streusel topping, use a food processor instead of a pastry blender. Pulse the butter, flour, and brown sugar a few times until coarse crumbs form. This saves time and ensures a uniform texture.
- Always Be Prepared: Keep a jar of unsweetened applesauce in your pantry! This way, you’ll always be ready to whip up this delicious applesauce coffee cake whenever the craving strikes.
- Enhance Nut Flavor: For a deeper, richer, and more aromatic streusel, lightly toast your pecans before chopping and adding them to the topping. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, until fragrant. Let them cool before chopping.
- Room Temperature Eggs: Always bring your eggs to room temperature before incorporating them into the batter. Room temperature eggs emulsify more easily with other ingredients, creating a smoother, more uniform batter and a finer crumb in the finished cake.
More Delicious Coffee Cake Recipes to Love
If you’re a true connoisseur of coffee cakes and enjoyed this applesauce rendition, you’re in for a treat with these other fantastic recipes. Expand your baking repertoire with these delightful variations:
- For a delightful seasonal twist, try the Carrot Cake With Brown Butter Glaze and the incredibly aromatic Pumpkin Spiced Coffee Cake With Brown Butter Glaze (pictured above). Both offer rich flavors that are surprisingly easy to prepare.
- If you crave a touch of decadence, the Bittersweet Chocolate Coffee Cake is a must-try, offering a sophisticated twist.
- For a classic, tangy flavor, the Sour Cream Coffee Cake delivers unparalleled moistness.
- And for those who adore traditional spice, the Cinnamon Spice Coffee Cake is a timeless favorite.
Each of these recipes offers a unique take on the beloved coffee cake, perfect for any occasion or simply to enjoy with your favorite hot beverage. Get ready to bake your way through a world of comforting flavors!
Now, pour yourself a comforting cup of tea or coffee, slice into a warm piece of this exquisite Applesauce Coffee Cake, and allow yourself a moment of well-deserved indulgence. You’ve earned it.
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Print Recipe
Applesauce Coffee Cake
Moist spiced applesauce coffee cake, topped with a buttery streusel topping made with pecans. Perfect for brunch, or anytime snacking.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups flour (divided)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 stick (1/2 cup salted butter, cold and cut into chunks)
- 1/3 cup pecans (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (divided)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup cinnamon applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spray a 9×9 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a bowl, combine butter with brown sugar and 3/4 cup of the flour. Using a pastry blender, mix until it becomes crumbly.
- Remove 1/2 cup of mixture and place it in a small bowl. Add to it the chopped pecans and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix to combine, this is your topping. Set aside.
- Add to the remaining mixture, the rest of the flour, baking soda and powder, the rest of the cinnamon, eggs, vanilla and applesauce. Beat until smooth. Pour into prepared dish.
- Sprinkle with topping.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Serve warm.
Nutrition
This recipe was originally posted on September 24, 2018. It has been updated to improve user experience, enhance SEO, and streamline presentation, and was reshared on October 15, 2024.