Applesauce Coffee Cake Recipe: 2 Secrets for Rich Flavor
A Cozy Slice of Nostalgia
There’s something magical about the aroma of cinnamon and apples wafting through the kitchen. It transports you back to cherished moments—perhaps a Sunday morning at grandma’s house or a cozy afternoon with a warm cup of coffee. This applesauce coffee cake recipe isn’t just a dessert; it’s a heartfelt experience, blending the comforting flavors of applesauce and spices into a moist, tender crumb topped with a delightful streusel.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Applesauce Coffee Cake

Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
All-purpose flour | 2¼ cups |
Baking powder | 1 tablespoon |
Baking soda | ¾ teaspoon |
Salt | ¾ teaspoon |
Ground cinnamon | 2 tablespoons |
Unsweetened applesauce | 1 cup |
Sour cream | 1½ cups |
Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
Unsalted butter (softened) | ½ cup |
Eggs | 2 large |
Vanilla extract | 1 tablespoon |
Brown sugar (for streusel) | ½ cup |
Chopped pecans (optional) | 1 cup |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Streusel Topping
- In a bowl, combine ¾ cup flour, ½ cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons cinnamon, and 6 tablespoons cold, cubed butter.
- Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in chopped pecans if using.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2¼ cups flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, ¾ teaspoon baking soda, ¾ teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup softened butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add 2 eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in 1 cup unsweetened applesauce, 1½ cups sour cream, and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Assemble the Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter.
- Add the remaining batter and top with the remaining streusel.
6. Bake
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Applesauce Coffee Cake

- Use Unsweetened Applesauce: This allows you to control the sweetness of the cake and enhances the apple flavor.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to keep the cake tender.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test the center of the cake; it should come out clean when the cake is done.
Variations to Try
- Add Fruit: Fold in chopped apples or raisins for added texture and flavor.
- Spice It Up: Incorporate spices like nutmeg or allspice for a different flavor profile.
- Glaze It: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled cake for extra sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute applesauce for oil or butter in this recipe?
A: While applesauce can replace some fat in baking, this recipe already uses applesauce for moisture and flavor. Replacing butter entirely may alter the texture.
Q: How should I store the applesauce coffee cake?
A: Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Yes, wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
This applesauce coffee cake recipe offers a delightful blend of moist cake and spiced streusel, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with your morning coffee or serving it as a dessert, it’s sure to bring comfort and joy. Happy baking!
https://www.pastryeasy.com/applesauce-cake-recipe-how-to-make/
https://www.pastryeasy.com/prolific-oven-chocolate-orange-almond-cake/
https://taffeybakery.com/applesauce-coffee-cake/
https://butterandbliss.net/applesauce-coffee-cake