Walnut Coconut Applesauce Coffee Cake: A Deliciously Moist and Flavorful Treat
Coffee cake. The very name conjures images of cozy mornings, steaming mugs, and the comforting aroma of cinnamon and spice. But forget the dry, crumbly versions of the past. This Walnut Coconut Applesauce Coffee Cake is a revelation – a symphony of textures and flavors that will redefine your coffee cake expectations. It’s incredibly moist, thanks to the applesauce, boasting a delightful crunch from the walnuts and a hint of tropical flair from the coconut. Prepare to be amazed by how easy and rewarding it is to bake this masterpiece!
Why This Coffee Cake is Special
This isn’t your average coffee cake. Here’s what makes it stand out:
* **Unbelievably Moist:** Applesauce is the secret weapon here, adding moisture that keeps the cake tender and prevents it from drying out. It also contributes a subtle sweetness that complements the other flavors.
* **Textural Delight:** The combination of finely ground walnuts in the batter and chopped walnuts in the streusel topping provides a delightful contrast between a soft crumb and a satisfying crunch. The coconut flakes add another layer of texture, offering a slightly chewy bite.
* **Flavor Explosion:** The warm spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves) create a cozy, comforting base, while the walnuts and coconut add nutty and subtly sweet notes. The applesauce lends a fruity tang that balances the richness of the cake.
* **Easy to Make:** Don’t let the fancy name fool you; this cake is surprisingly simple to make. The recipe uses straightforward ingredients and techniques, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
* **Perfect for Any Occasion:** Whether you’re hosting a brunch, need a dessert for a potluck, or simply want to treat yourself, this coffee cake is the perfect choice. It’s elegant enough for special occasions but approachable enough for everyday enjoyment.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these ingredients:
**For the Cake:**
* **All-purpose flour:** 3 cups (360g). Use unbleached all-purpose flour for best results. If you want to substitute with gluten-free flour, use a blend that is designed for baking and contains xanthan gum.
* **Baking powder:** 2 teaspoons. Make sure your baking powder is fresh for optimal leavening.
* **Baking soda:** 1 teaspoon. Baking soda reacts with the acidity in the applesauce to create a light and airy texture.
* **Salt:** 1/2 teaspoon. Salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
* **Ground cinnamon:** 1 teaspoon. Adds warmth and spice.
* **Ground nutmeg:** 1/2 teaspoon. Complements the cinnamon and applesauce.
* **Ground cloves:** 1/4 teaspoon. A small amount of cloves adds depth and complexity.
* **Unsalted butter:** 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g), softened. Softened butter is crucial for creaming properly with the sugar, which incorporates air and creates a light and fluffy cake.
* **Granulated sugar:** 1 3/4 cups (350g). Provides sweetness and moisture.
* **Eggs:** 2 large. Eggs bind the ingredients together and add richness and structure.
* **Applesauce:** 1 cup (240g), unsweetened. Unsweetened applesauce allows you to control the sweetness of the cake.
* **Vanilla extract:** 1 teaspoon. Enhances the other flavors.
* **Chopped walnuts:** 1/2 cup (50g), finely ground. Finely ground walnuts add a subtle nutty flavor and help to create a tender crumb.
* **Shredded coconut:** 1/2 cup (50g), sweetened or unsweetened. Sweetened coconut will add more sweetness to the cake, while unsweetened coconut will provide a more subtle coconut flavor.
**For the Streusel Topping:**
* **All-purpose flour:** 1/2 cup (60g).
* **Brown sugar:** 1/2 cup (100g), packed. Packed brown sugar adds moisture and a caramel-like flavor.
* **Unsalted butter:** 1/4 cup (1/2 stick or 57g), cold and cubed. Cold butter is essential for creating a crumbly streusel.
* **Chopped walnuts:** 1/2 cup (50g), coarsely chopped. Coarsely chopped walnuts add a satisfying crunch.
* **Shredded coconut:** 1/4 cup (25g), sweetened or unsweetened. Adds a touch of coconut flavor and texture.
* **Ground cinnamon:** 1/2 teaspoon.
Equipment You’ll Need
* **9×13 inch baking pan:** This is the ideal size for this recipe. You can also use a round cake pan, but you may need to adjust the baking time.
* **Mixing bowls:** You’ll need several bowls for mixing the dry ingredients, wet ingredients, and streusel topping.
* **Electric mixer:** A stand mixer or hand mixer will make creaming the butter and sugar much easier.
* **Measuring cups and spoons:** Accurate measuring is essential for baking success.
* **Rubber spatula:** Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl and fold in the dry ingredients.
* **Whisk:** A whisk is helpful for combining the dry ingredients.
* **Parchment paper (optional):** Lining the baking pan with parchment paper makes it easier to remove the cake.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create your own Walnut Coconut Applesauce Coffee Cake:
**Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. Alternatively, you can line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. This will prevent the cake from sticking and make it easy to lift out once it’s cooled.
**Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping**
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cold cubed butter, chopped walnuts, shredded coconut, and cinnamon. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this will result in a tough streusel. Set aside in the refrigerator while you prepare the cake batter. Keeping it cold helps the butter stay solid and creates a more distinct crumbly texture when baked.
**Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients**
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Whisking ensures that the ingredients are evenly distributed, which is crucial for even leavening and flavor.
**Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar**
In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, which will result in a light and tender cake. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for 3-5 minutes, or until the mixture is noticeably lighter in color and texture. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure that all of the butter and sugar are incorporated.
**Step 5: Add Eggs, Applesauce, and Vanilla**
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures that the eggs are properly emulsified into the butter and sugar mixture. Then, stir in the applesauce and vanilla extract until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as this can develop the gluten in the flour and result in a tough cake.
**Step 6: Gradually Add Dry Ingredients**
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can result in a tough cake. Stop mixing as soon as the dry ingredients are incorporated.
**Step 7: Fold in Walnuts and Coconut**
Gently fold in the ground walnuts and shredded coconut until evenly distributed. Folding is a gentle mixing technique that helps to prevent overmixing and keeps the batter light and airy.
**Step 8: Pour Batter into Pan**
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Use a spatula to ensure that the batter is evenly distributed in the pan.
**Step 9: Sprinkle with Streusel Topping**
Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the cake for a consistent topping. You can gently press the streusel topping into the batter to help it adhere during baking.
**Step 10: Bake**
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so it’s important to check the cake for doneness. If the top of the cake is browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil to prevent it from burning.
**Step 11: Cool and Serve**
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling the cake in the pan allows it to set and prevents it from breaking when you remove it. Once the cake is completely cool, you can slice and serve it. Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea!
Tips for Success
* **Use Room Temperature Ingredients:** Using room temperature ingredients, especially butter and eggs, helps them to emulsify properly, resulting in a smoother and more evenly textured batter. Take the butter and eggs out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before you start baking.
* **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can result in a tough cake. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined, and then gently fold in the walnuts and coconut.
* **Check for Doneness:** The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so it’s important to check the cake for doneness. Insert a wooden skewer into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done. If it comes out with wet batter on it, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again.
* **Let the Cake Cool Completely:** Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving. This allows the cake to set and prevents it from crumbling.
* **Store Properly:** Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cake for longer storage. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing.
Variations and Substitutions
* **Add Spices:** Experiment with different spices, such as cardamom, ginger, or allspice, to add a unique flavor to the cake.
* **Use Different Nuts:** Substitute pecans, almonds, or macadamia nuts for the walnuts.
* **Add Dried Fruit:** Add dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates to the batter for a chewy texture and added sweetness.
* **Make it Gluten-Free:** Use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking in place of the all-purpose flour. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum to help bind the ingredients.
* **Add Chocolate Chips:** For a chocolatey twist, add chocolate chips to the batter or streusel topping.
* **Substitute Applesauce:** If you don’t have applesauce, you can substitute mashed banana or pumpkin puree.
Serving Suggestions
* **Enjoy with Coffee or Tea:** This coffee cake is the perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee or tea.
* **Serve with a Dollop of Whipped Cream:** Top with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
* **Dust with Powdered Sugar:** Dust the cake with powdered sugar for a pretty presentation.
* **Serve Warm:** Warm the cake slightly before serving for an extra cozy treat.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)
* Calories: 350-400
* Fat: 20-25g
* Saturated Fat: 10-12g
* Cholesterol: 50-60mg
* Sodium: 200-250mg
* Carbohydrates: 40-45g
* Sugar: 20-25g
* Protein: 4-5g
**Note:** Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
Storage Instructions
* **Room Temperature:** Store the coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will help maintain its moisture and prevent it from drying out.
* **Refrigerator:** You can also store the coffee cake in the refrigerator for up to a week. However, refrigerating it may cause it to dry out slightly, so it’s best to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before storing it.
* **Freezer:** For longer storage, you can freeze the coffee cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. Frozen coffee cake can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven.
Conclusion
This Walnut Coconut Applesauce Coffee Cake is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create a memorable baking experience. The combination of moist applesauce, crunchy walnuts, and tropical coconut creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, this coffee cake is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a truly extraordinary cake! Enjoy the process, savor the aroma, and share the deliciousness with friends and family. Happy Baking!