Vegan Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake

Welcome to a slice of vegan heaven! As the crisp breeze of autumn sweeps in, there's no better way to celebrate the season's bounty than with this mouthwatering Vegan Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake. This recipe is a delectable ode to fall, blending the sweet, tart essence of apples with the warm embrace of cinnamon. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or simply looking to explore the world of cruelty-free baking, this cake promises a delightful journey for your taste buds and a cozy, comforting aroma that will fill your home. Let's learn how to make it!

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Vegan Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• All-Purpose Flour (2 c): All-purpose flour serves as the primary dry ingredient in this vegan apple cinnamon coffee cake recipe. It provides structure and a tender crumb to the cake while serving as the base for the other ingredients.
• Sugar (½ c): Sugar sweetens the cake and enhances the natural sweetness of the apples. It also contributes to the cake's tenderness and moist texture.
• Brown Sugar (¼ c): Brown sugar adds a warm, caramel-like sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor to the cake. It complements the cinnamon and apple flavors beautifully, creating a more complex taste profile.
• Baking Powder (1 tsp): Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
• Baking Soda (1 tsp): Baking soda is another leavening agent that, when combined with an acid (like the nondairy yogurt in this recipe), helps the cake rise and become tender.
• Salt (½ tsp): Salt enhances the overall flavor of the cake by balancing the sweetness and intensifying other flavors. It's a crucial ingredient to create a well-rounded taste.
• Cinnamon (1 tsp): Cinnamon is a star in this recipe, infusing the cake with warm, aromatic spice that pairs perfectly with the apples. It's the key flavor that makes this coffee cake uniquely delicious.

Wet Ingredients

• Nondairy Yogurt (½ c): Nondairy yogurt serves as a vegan alternative to dairy yogurt and adds moisture and a slightly tangy flavor to the cake. It also helps activate the baking soda as an acid.
• Nondairy Milk (½ c): Nondairy milk provides the necessary liquid to bring the batter together while keeping the recipe dairy-free. It adds moisture and ensures a tender crumb.
• Canola Oil (½ c): Canola oil contributes to the cake's moistness and provides a source of fat, which is essential for a rich and tender coffee cake.
• Vanilla Extract (2 tsp): Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the cake, adding a subtle sweetness and a pleasant aroma.
• Apples (2): Apples are the main component of this coffee cake. They provide natural sweetness, a delightful texture, and a burst of fruity flavor. Dicing them and incorporating them into the batter ensures that every bite is packed with delicious apple goodness, making this coffee cake a true celebration of fall.

Streusel Topping Ingredients

The streusel topping is a key component of this Vegan Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake, adding a layer of texture and flavor that takes this dessert to the next level. It bakes to a golden brown perfection, providing a contrast to the moist and tender cake beneath, making every bite a delightful symphony of flavors and textures.

• Vegan Butter (3 tbsp): The cold vegan butter is the foundation of a classic streusel topping. It's essential for creating those delightful, crumbly, and buttery clusters that sit on top of the coffee cake. It ensures that the topping remains rich and indulgent.
• All-Purpose Flour (¼ c): Flour is the binding agent in the streusel topping. It combines with the cold vegan butter and sugar to create the crumbly texture that contrasts beautifully with the cake's soft interior.
• Brown Sugar (½ c): Brown sugar adds a warm, caramelized sweetness to the streusel, creating a rich flavor profile that complements the apple and cinnamon in the coffee cake.
• Cinnamon (2 tsp): Cinnamon is a crucial spice in both the cake and the streusel topping. It enhances the overall warmth and flavor of the topping, creating a harmonious blend with the apple-cinnamon theme of the cake itself.
• Nutmeg (¼ tsp): Nutmeg is the secret ingredient that elevates the streusel topping to a whole new level. Its warm, slightly nutty flavor complements the cinnamon and adds depth and complexity to the topping.
• Pecans (1 c): Pecans bring a delightful crunch and a nutty richness to the streusel. They provide a contrast in texture to the cake's soft crumb and add a layer of irresistible flavor. The pecans, combined with the brown sugar and spices, create an irresistible topping that's sure to make every bite of your coffee cake a delectable experience.

Steps for Making Vegan Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake (with pictures!)

1. Prep: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C) and line a 9 inch square pan with parchment paper. Set aside.
2. Make the Batter: In a large bowl whisk together the flour, sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate, smaller bowl whisk together the nondairy yogurt, nondairy milk, canola oil, and vanilla extract. Pour wet ingredients into dry and mix until just-combined. Fold in the diced apples.
3. Make the Streusel Topping: Add vegan butter, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg to a small bowl. Work mixture with a fork until it starts to come together. Mix in the pecans. 
4. Bake: Pour cake batter into prepared pan, smoothing the top with a rubber spatula. Sprinkle streusel topping evenly over the top of the cake batter. Place pan on center rack of preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes or until toothpick inserted into center or cake comes out clean with only a few crumbs clinging to it. Allow cake to cool completely in the pan before attempting to lift it out using the parchment paper. Serve.

Tips for Making a Fantastic Vegan Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake

Here are some tips to ensure your Vegan Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake turns out perfectly:

1. Choose the Right Apples: Opt for sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Pink Lady. These varieties hold their shape well when baking and provide a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
2. Dice Uniformly: Make sure to dice the apples into uniform pieces. This ensures even distribution throughout the cake and a consistent texture.
3. Stir Dry Ingredients Gently: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
4. Use a Springform Pan if Desired: Consider using a springform pan for easy removal without damaging the cake's top when it's time to serve.
5. Prepare the Streusel Topping Last: Prepare the streusel topping just before you're ready to sprinkle it over the cake batter. This keeps it cold and crumbly.
6. Layer the Streusel: When adding the streusel topping, create an even layer across the entire surface of the batter. This ensures a balanced distribution of flavor and texture.
7. Check for Doneness: To avoid overbaking, check the cake for doneness by inserting a toothpick or skewer into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. If it has wet batter, continue baking but be cautious not to overbake.
8. Cool Before Slicing: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before removing it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the cake set and prevents it from falling apart when sliced.

How Coffee Cake Got its Name

Coffee cake is called so not because it typically contains coffee as an ingredient but because it is a cake that pairs exceptionally well with coffee. It's a classic dessert that has been enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee for generations. Here's why it's called "coffee cake":

• Complementary Flavors: Coffee cake is often flavored with ingredients like cinnamon, nuts, fruits, or spices, which complement the taste of coffee. These flavors create a harmonious pairing, enhancing the overall coffee-drinking experience.
• Texture and Consistency: Coffee cakes tend to have a crumbly or streusel-like topping and a moist, tender crumb. This texture contrasts nicely with the hot beverage, making each bite of cake enjoyable with a sip of coffee.
• Coffee Break Tradition: Historically, coffee cake has been served during coffee breaks, which are moments when people take a break from work or socializing to enjoy a cup of coffee. Having a slice of cake during these breaks became a common practice, and the term "coffee cake" became associated with these delicious treats meant to accompany coffee.
• Cultural Tradition: In many cultures, there are variations of coffee cakes that are designed to be shared over coffee. For example, in Scandinavian countries, there's a strong tradition of enjoying coffee cake, often referred to as "kaffebrød," with coffee.

In essence, coffee cake's name reflects its role as a delightful accompaniment to coffee, showcasing flavors and textures that enhance the coffee-drinking experience. While coffee is the most traditional pairing, these cakes are also enjoyable with tea or other hot beverages, making them a versatile and beloved breakfast/dessert option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is coffee cake supposed to be dry?

No, coffee cake is not supposed to be dry. In fact, a well-made coffee cake should have a moist and tender crumb. The term "coffee cake" typically refers to a type of cake that is designed to be enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. It's known for its delicious and somewhat crumbly texture, which complements the hot beverage it accompanies.

A moist coffee cake is achieved through proper ingredient ratios, careful mixing, and accurate baking times. Common ingredients like butter or oil, eggs or egg substitutes, and sometimes sour cream or yogurt contribute to the cake's moisture. The addition of fruits, nuts, or a streusel topping can also enhance the overall texture and flavor.

If a coffee cake turns out dry, it may be due to over-baking, using too little fat or liquid, or not following the recipe instructions accurately. To ensure your coffee cake is moist and enjoyable, be sure to follow the recipe closely, and pay attention to factors such as baking time and ingredient measurements. Properly stored coffee cake can also retain its moisture for several days, especially when kept in an airtight container.

FAQ's Continued

Can I use any type of apple in my vegan apple cinnamon coffee cake?

Yes, you can use various apple varieties for your coffee cake. That said, sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Pink Lady, or Braeburn work best as they hold their shape when baked and add a nice flavor contrast.

Can I substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour in a vegan coffee cake?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that it will result in a denser and heartier texture. You might want to use a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a balance of flavor and texture.

Can I make this vegan apple cinnamon coffee cake in advance for a special occasion?

Yes, you can prepare this coffee cake in advance. You can either bake it ahead and store it tightly covered, then reheat it before serving, or prepare the batter and refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight before baking. Both options can help you save time when you have guests over.

Can I omit the streusel topping if I want to reduce the sugar content?

Yes, you can omit the streusel topping if you prefer a lower sugar option. The cake will still be delicious and have a lighter, more cake-like texture without the added sweetness and crunch of the streusel.

What can I do if my streusel topping turns out too crumbly or dry?

If your streusel topping appears too dry or crumbly, you can add a bit more vegan butter, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. The streusel should be moist enough to hold together when pressed between your fingers.

How to Serve/Store Vegan Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake

Serving

Ultimately, how you serve your vegan apple cinnamon coffee cake depends on your personal taste and the occasion. Whether it's a cozy morning at home or a special gathering with friends and family, this cake is a versatile and delectable treat that's sure to be enjoyed in various ways.

1. Warm or at Room Temperature: Vegan apple cinnamon coffee cake can be served either warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference. Freshly baked, warm slices can be especially comforting, while room temperature slices have a slightly different texture and flavor profile.
2. With Coffee or Tea: As the name suggests, coffee cake pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warm, cozy flavors of the cake complement the beverages, making it an ideal treat for a coffee or tea break.
3. Topped with Vegan Whipped Cream: For an extra indulgence, add a dollop of vegan whipped cream on top of each slice. The contrast of the creamy topping with the cake's sweetness is heavenly.
4. A La Mode: Serve your vegan apple cinnamon coffee cake with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm cake and cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
5. Drizzled with Vegan Caramel Sauce: Elevate your coffee cake by drizzling it with a vegan caramel sauce. The sweet, buttery sauce adds another layer of flavor.
6. Fruit Compote: A side of warm fruit compote, like spiced apple or berry compote, can be a wonderful accompaniment that enhances the overall experience.
7. Dusted with Powdered Sugar or Cinnamon: A light dusting of powdered sugar or ground cinnamon on top of each slice not only adds a touch of elegance but also intensifies the cinnamon flavor.

Storing

Properly storing your vegan apple cinnamon coffee cake will help maintain its freshness and flavor. If you plan to consume the coffee cake within a day or two, you can store it at room temperature. Place the cake in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Ensure that it's well-sealed to prevent it from drying out.

For longer storage, or if your home is particularly warm, you can refrigerate the coffee cake. Again, use an airtight container or wrap it tightly. Refrigeration can extend the cake's freshness for up to five days.

To store the coffee cake for an extended period, freeze it. Follow these steps:

• Allow the cake to cool completely to room temperature.
• Wrap the entire cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place them in a resealable freezer bag.
• Label and date the package.
• Store in the freezer for up to a month.

If you make this recipe be sure to tag @censoredbaker on Instagram!

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