If you have a soft spot for cozy, comforting desserts that make your kitchen smell like a warm hug, then you are going to absolutely adore this Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake Recipe. Imagine biting into a slice where the tender crumb of coffee cake meets the sweet and spicy charm of apple pie filling, layered with gooey marshmallows and melty chocolate chips to make every mouthful a celebration. This recipe brings all those favorite flavors together into one irresistibly delicious treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet snack any time of day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but play essential roles in building the flavor, texture, and aroma of this coffee cake. Each one is chosen to create a perfect balance of moistness, sweetness, and spice, making this recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Granulated sugar: Provides just the right sweetness to complement the tart apples.
- All-purpose flour: Builds the cake’s sturdy yet tender crumb.
- Baking powder: Gives the cake the lift it needs for that perfect fluffy texture.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds warm, aromatic spice that ties the apple pie flavor together beautifully.
- Ground nutmeg: Offers a subtle depth of spice that enhances the overall taste.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavors.
- Unsweetened almond milk: Keeps the cake moist and adds a hint of nuttiness; you can swap in any milk you prefer.
- Vegetable oil: Ensures each slice is tender and moist without being heavy.
- Large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to the structure.
- Medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Provide tartness, juiciness, and texture in every layer.
- Miniature marshmallows: Melt into gooey pockets of sweetness throughout the cake.
- Chocolate chips: Add an unexpected, rich chocolate twist to the traditional coffee cake.
- Optional toppings: Caramel sauce, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar for that final indulgent touch.
How to Make Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake Recipe
Step 1: Combine Wet Ingredients
Start by pouring the almond milk, vegetable oil, and eggs into a mixing bowl. Whisk these together until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This creates the moist foundation for your coffee cake, making sure it stays tender and rich after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter Layers
Mix your dry ingredients separately—the sugar, flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt—and then slowly add them to the wet mix to form a well-blended batter. This is where the magic begins: the cinnamon and nutmeg will infuse warmth and spice, hinting at the classic apple pie flavors.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients in the Pan
In a greased baking pan, spread about a quarter of the batter evenly. Next, scatter a generous layer of diced apples. Then sprinkle some marshmallows and chocolate chips on top before repeating the layering process until all the batter, apples, marshmallows, and chocolate chips are used. This layering will create bursts of flavor and texture in every bite—gooey, fruity, and chocolaty surprises.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place your pan in a preheated oven and bake the cake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll want it golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside. The best test is when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, giving you that perfect slice.
Step 5: Cool and Add Optional Toppings
Once out of the oven, let your coffee cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This rest time helps it firm up just enough for clean slices. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle with caramel sauce or top with whipped cream for a luscious finish that will wow anyone lucky enough to try it.
How to Serve Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake Recipe
Garnishes
The perfect garnish can elevate this cake from delicious to divine. A light drizzle of caramel sauce adds rich sweetness that pairs beautifully with the warm spices and fruit. If you prefer lighter toppings, a simple swirl of whipped cream or sprinkle of powdered sugar works wonders to add visual appeal and a hint of extra sweetness.
Side Dishes
This Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake holds its own, but pairing it with fresh fruit like sliced bananas or a handful of berries adds a refreshing contrast in flavor and texture. For a heartier option, serve it alongside crispy bacon or sautéed spinach to balance sweet with savory and create a well-rounded brunch plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress your guests or mix things up? Try serving individual slices in cute ramekins with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cinnamon-spiced yogurt. You could also layer small cake cubes with apple compote and whipped cream in parfait glasses for an elegant twist on the classic coffee cake experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After baking, allow your coffee cake to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep fresh for up to three days, making it a great option for preparing ahead and enjoying later without losing any of that tasty moisture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to savor this Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake Recipe beyond a few days, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or box. They’ll stay delicious for up to two months, ready to thaw whenever a craving strikes.
Reheating
To warm up your leftover coffee cake, pop a slice in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This quick reheat will revive the cake’s fluffy texture and soften the melted marshmallows and chocolate chips for a comforting, fresh-from-the-oven feel every time.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples provide the best balance of tartness and sweetness, you can experiment with any apple variety you enjoy. Just keep in mind that some apples are softer, so they may break down more during baking.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Using unsweetened almond milk already makes this coffee cake dairy-free. Just be sure the chocolate chips and any toppings you choose are also dairy-free to keep the recipe completely plant-based.
What if I don’t have marshmallows or chocolate chips?
While they add a delicious twist, you can leave them out or substitute nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture instead. The cake will still be tasty and have that apple pie charm.
Can I bake this coffee cake in a different pan?
Yes, you can use any baking pan you have on hand—a square or round cake pan works well. Just adjust the baking time slightly as needed, checking for doneness with a toothpick to avoid over or underbaking.
How do I prevent the cake from drying out?
Keep an eye on your baking time and avoid overbaking. Also, storing the cake in an airtight container once cooled helps maintain its moistness. Adding the oil and eggs as per the recipe also ensures a tender and moist crumb.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake Recipe is a delightful way to bring the familiar comforts of homemade apple pie together with the soft, tender texture of coffee cake. It’s a dish that fills your kitchen with tempting aromas and your heart with joy—perfect for sharing with friends and family over a cup of coffee or during a cozy weekend brunch. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your new favorite go-to treat. Happy baking and savor every bite!
Print
Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 60-65 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake combines the comforting flavors of classic apple pie with the fluffy, tender texture of a coffee cake. Layered with diced Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples, miniature marshmallows, and chocolate chips, this cake offers a delightful mix of tart, sweet, and melty elements perfect for breakfast or dessert. Finished with optional caramel sauce or whipped cream, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to assemble and bake.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
Filling and Mix-ins
- 3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, peeled and diced)
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Optional Toppings
- Caramel sauce
- Whipped cream
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, pour in the almond milk, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth and well combined, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Prepare to Assemble Layers: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a baking pan to prevent sticking. This will be used to layer the cake ingredients.
- Assemble the Layers: Spread a quarter of the cake batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Then, arrange a layer of diced apples over the batter. Repeat this layering process, alternating between cake batter, apples, miniature marshmallows, and chocolate chips until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of batter on top for structure.
- Bake the Cake: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, and the top should be golden brown.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows it to firm up for easier slicing and serving.
- Serve and Garnish: Slice the cake and serve warm. For extra indulgence, drizzle with caramel sauce, add a dollop of whipped cream, or dust lightly with powdered sugar as desired.
- Pairing Suggestions: To complement the Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake, serve alongside fresh fruits like sliced bananas or berries, enjoy with creamy drinks such as iced vanilla lattes or fresh orange juice, or balance the sweetness with savory sides like crispy bacon or sautéed spinach.
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples for tartness or Honeycrisp for a sweeter flavor—both work well.
- Avoid over-baking to keep the cake moist and tender.
- Customize your cake by adding a pinch of chili pepper for a spicy twist or mixing in chopped nuts for extra crunch.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore warmth and softness.
