Light Spiced Apple Coffee Cake – A Deliciously Low-Fat Delight
This Light Spiced Apple Coffee Cake is a delightful treat that is both easy to make and packed with flavor. With its subtle spice blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, combined with the natural sweetness of apples, this cake is a perfect balance of warmth and lightness. Whether you’re preparing a cozy breakfast or a mid-morning snack, this cake will quickly become a family favorite. Plus, it’s low in fat, so you can enjoy it without any guilt!
Ingredients:
Ingredient | Quantity |
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Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup |
Ground cinnamon | 1 3/4 teaspoons |
Ground nutmeg | 3/4 teaspoon |
Ground cloves | 1/4 teaspoon |
Sweet apples | 2 (medium-sized) |
Buttermilk baking mix | 2 cups |
Egg | 1 large |
Milk | 3/4 cup |
Butter, softened | 2 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 328.8 kcal |
Total Fat | 12.2 g |
Saturated Fat | 5.1 g |
Cholesterol | 50.5 mg |
Sodium | 565.2 mg |
Carbohydrates | 50.5 g |
Dietary Fiber | 2.4 g |
Sugars | 26.2 g |
Protein | 5.5 g |
Instructions:
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Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8-inch square baking pan to ensure that the cake doesn’t stick to the edges while baking.
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Prepare the spice mixture: In a small measuring cup, combine 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves. This will create the aromatic spiced mixture that adds so much flavor to the cake.
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Prepare the apples: Take two medium-sized apples and halve them. Remove the cores and peel one of the apple halves. Chop this peeled half into small, finely diced pieces. For the remaining halves, slice them thinly, ensuring each slice is just thick enough to be soft and tender during baking but still hold its shape.
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Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk baking mix, the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and the remaining 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves. Stir these ingredients together until they are evenly incorporated.
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Prepare the wet ingredients: In a separate small bowl, beat together the egg, 3/4 cup milk, and 2 tablespoons softened butter. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
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Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir everything together, beating gently for about 30 seconds. The batter will be a little lumpy, which is perfectly fine – it will smooth out as it bakes.
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Add the apple chunks: Stir the finely chopped apple pieces into the batter. This will add a burst of flavor and moisture throughout the cake.
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Prepare the pan: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared 8-inch square pan, smoothing it with a spatula to ensure even distribution. Arrange the thin apple slices on top of the batter, overlapping them slightly for a decorative effect.
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Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until a wooden pick or toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. This indicates that the cake is fully cooked and has a soft, moist crumb.
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Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps prevent the cake from becoming soggy.
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Serve: For the best flavor, serve the Light Spiced Apple Coffee Cake while it’s still warm. You can enjoy it as is, or dust the top with a little powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Tips for Perfecting Your Apple Coffee Cake
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Apple variety: The type of apple you use can make a difference in the flavor and texture of your cake. Choose a variety like Granny Smith for a tart contrast to the sweetness of the cake, or Honeycrisp for a naturally sweet flavor.
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Make it a family affair: This cake is easy enough to involve the little ones in the kitchen! Let them help with mixing, slicing apples, and arranging the slices on top of the cake. It’s a great way to get kids excited about baking.
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Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months – just wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Light Spiced Apple Coffee Cake combines the warmth of classic fall spices with the lightness of a low-fat cake, making it a perfect addition to your breakfast or brunch spread. The balance of flavors from the apples and the spices will have you reaching for another slice before you even realize it. Plus, it’s a healthier option compared to many traditional coffee cakes, so you can indulge without worrying about the extra calories.
Its versatility also means you can adjust the recipe to suit your tastes. Add in a handful of chopped nuts, a sprinkle of raisins, or a drizzle of glaze to make it your own. Whether it’s for a cozy family breakfast, a sweet afternoon snack, or an easy dessert to share with friends, this spiced apple coffee cake is sure to impress!
Final Thoughts:
This Light Spiced Apple Coffee Cake is a true testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something delicious and satisfying. With minimal prep time and the ability to be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, it’s an ideal choice for busy mornings or afternoon gatherings. Plus, the low fat and comforting flavors make it an option you can feel good about serving to loved ones. Happy baking!