Warm & Gooey Apple Pie Coffee Cake: A Cozy Cinnamon-Kissed Delight

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

For the Apple Filling:

• 2 cups peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Streusel Topping:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
2. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until apples soften and the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and let cool while you prepare the cake batter.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan.
5. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream until smooth.
7. Gradually mix wet ingredients into dry ingredients until well combined.
8. Spread half of the batter into the prepared baking pan.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

9. Evenly spread the apple filling over the first layer of batter.
10. Pour the remaining batter over the apple layer and gently spread to cover.

Step 4: Make the Streusel Topping

11. In a small bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
12. Stir in melted butter until crumbly.
13. Sprinkle the streusel mixture evenly over the cake batter.

Step 5: Bake

14. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
15. Let the cake cool slightly before adding the glaze.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

16. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
17. Drizzle glaze over the warm cake.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

18. Slice and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
19. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate cozy treat.

Tips for the Best Coffee Cake:

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced sweetness.
• For extra warmth, add a pinch of nutmeg to the batter.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
• Reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy that fresh-from-the-oven warmth.

Enjoy this Warm & Gooey Apple Pie Coffee Cake – a comforting, cinnamon-kissed delight perfect for any occasion!