Low-Fat Spiced Apple Coffee Cake

Introduction

Welcome to the comprehensive guide to creating a delightful Light Spiced Apple Coffee Cake, a recipe curated especially for those who appreciate the warm embrace of fall spices combined with the fresh, juicy sweetness of apples. This recipe, featured on Love With Recipes, is designed to deliver a perfectly moist, tender cake with a subtle spice profile that elevates the natural apple flavor. Its low-fat nature makes it an ideal choice for health-conscious bakers or anyone seeking a comforting treat without the guilt. The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves imparts a cozy aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner eager to explore baking with wholesome ingredients, this recipe offers a straightforward approach, producing consistently excellent results.

Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes

Needed Equipment

• 8-inch square baking pan (preferably non-stick or lightly greased)
• Mixing bowls (at least 2, one for dry ingredients, one for wet)
• Measuring cups and spoons (standard and small). Precision is key for baking success.
• Microplane or fine grater (for zesting apples or spices if desired)
• Rubber spatula or silicone scraper (for mixing and spreading batter)
• Sharp knife (for slicing apples)
• Peeler (optional, depending on apple variety and preference)
• Cutting board
• Toothpick or wooden skewer (for testing doneness)
• Cooling rack (for cooling the cake after baking)
• Small whisk or fork (to beat eggs and mix wet ingredients)

Tags

Low-fat, Apple, Spiced, Coffee Cake, Breakfast, Snack, Easy, Fall Recipe, Baked Goods, Kid-friendly, Healthy Dessert

Serving Size

Each serving is approximately one square piece of the cake, with the recipe yielding about 9 to 12 pieces, depending on how generously you cut the slices. For nutritional calculations and dietary considerations, a typical serving size is considered to be one slice.

Difficulty Level

Beginner to Intermediate. The recipe involves basic baking techniques such as mixing, peeling, slicing, and baking. Its straightforward steps make it accessible for novice bakers, while the attention to detail ensures professional-quality results.

Allergen Information

• Contains: Gluten (from baking mix), Eggs, Dairy (butter, milk)
• May contain traces of: Nuts (if used as add-ons or in baking mix), Soy (depending on baking mix brand)

Always verify ingredient labels if allergies are a concern. Substitutions can be made to accommodate specific dietary needs, such as dairy-free or egg-free options using plant-based alternatives.

Dietary Preference

This recipe is suitable for omnivores and can be adapted to vegetarian diets. It is not vegan unless modifications are made for eggs and dairy. It’s low-fat, making it friendly for those watching their fat intake, but it remains rich in flavor and satisfying textures.

Course

Breakfast, Brunch, Snack, Dessert

Cuisine

American, Fall-inspired, Comfort Food

Ingredients

Ingredients Table

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Pan

Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). Proper preheating ensures even baking and optimal rise. Lightly grease your 8-inch square baking pan with butter or non-stick spray; this prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. For a more natural approach, you can line the pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to lift out the cake easily after baking.

Step 2: Create the Spice Mixture

In a small measuring cup or bowl, combine 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/8 teaspoon of ground cloves. Use a small spoon or whisk to blend these spices thoroughly with the sugar. This aromatic mixture will be used later to sprinkle over the apples, adding depth and warmth to each bite.

Step 3: Prepare Apples

Choose two medium-sized apples, preferably of your preferred variety—sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp work well, but tart apples like Granny Smith provide a lovely contrast. Rinse the apples under cool water, then peel one of the apples completely using a peeler or a sharp paring knife. The remaining apple can be left unpeeled for added texture and visual appeal.

Halve the apples and core out the centers using a small knife or apple corer. For the peeled apple half, finely dice it into small, uniform pieces. These diced pieces will be folded into the batter, infusing moisture and apple flavor throughout the cake. The slices from the remaining apple half should be cut into thin, uniform slices—about 1/8 inch thick—to be arranged on top of the batter for a decorative and flavorful topping.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk baking mix, the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/8 teaspoon of ground cloves. Use a whisk or spoon to evenly distribute these ingredients, ensuring that the spices are well incorporated into the flour-based mix. This dry mixture forms the foundation of your batter, providing structure and flavor.

Step 5: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In a separate smaller bowl, crack the large egg and beat it lightly with a fork or small whisk. Add the milk and softened butter. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth, pale, and fully combined. The softened butter should be evenly dispersed, contributing to the cake’s tender crumb.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or silicone scraper, gently fold the ingredients together. Be careful not to overmix; gentle folding for about 30 seconds is sufficient. The batter will be slightly lumpy, which is normal and desirable for a moist, tender cake. Overmixing can result in a dense texture.

Step 7: Incorporate Apple Chunks

Add the finely diced apple pieces to the batter and fold gently until evenly distributed. The apple chunks will add bursts of flavor and moisture, enhancing the overall eating experience. The batter should be thick but spoonable, with visible apple pieces dispersed throughout.

Step 8: Assemble and Top the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Once leveled, arrange the thin apple slices on top of the batter. Overlap the slices slightly to create a decorative pattern, and press them gently into the batter to ensure they adhere during baking. Sprinkle the prepared spice-sugar mixture over the apple slices for added aroma and flavor.

Step 9: Baking

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes. Check for doneness starting at the 23-minute mark. Insert a toothpick or wooden skewer into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean with no wet batter, the cake is ready. The top should be golden, and the apples should be tender.

Step 10: Cooling and Serving

Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the moisture to settle and prevents the cake from crumbling when transferred. Carefully transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely, or serve warm for a freshly baked experience. For presentation, dust with powdered sugar or serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla yogurt.

Preparation Tips

• Apple Variations: Experiment with different apple varieties to customize sweetness and tartness. Combining sweeter apples with tart ones can create a balanced flavor profile.
• Spice Adjustments: Adjust the amount of spices to suit your taste. For more warmth, add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice.
• Sweetness Level: If you prefer a sweeter cake, increase the sugar slightly or add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup over the top before baking.
• Texture Enhancements: Incorporate chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans into the batter for a crunchier texture. For a chewy element, sprinkle raisins or dried cranberries over the apple slices before baking.
• Gluten-Free Options: Substitute the buttermilk baking mix with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Consistent Slicing: Use a mandoline or adjustable slicer for uniform apple slices, ensuring even baking and an attractive presentation.
• Preventing Soggy Top: Make sure to pat the apple slices dry if they are particularly juicy. Excess moisture can make the top soggy during baking.
• Enhancing Flavor: Brushing the apple slices with a little melted butter and sprinkling with cinnamon sugar before baking adds a caramelized, flavorful crust.
• Presentation: Serve slices with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an elegant touch.

Add-ons and Variations

• Nuts: Chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds sprinkled over the top prior to baking add crunch and richness.
• Fruits: Incorporate dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dried apricots into the batter for added texture and flavor.
• Glaze: Drizzle with a light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or citrus juice for extra sweetness.
• Spice Variations: Add a pinch of allspice or ginger for a different aromatic profile.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Greek yogurt or whipped cream for a creamy complement.
• Warm vanilla or caramel sauce for drizzling.
• Fresh fruit salad featuring seasonal berries and citrus segments.
• Lightly toasted granola for added crunch and fiber.

Improvements and Customizations

• Vegan Version: Swap eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and replace butter with coconut oil or plant-based margarine.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free baking mix and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Sweetener Alternatives: Replace sugar with maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar for different flavor profiles.
• Adding Layers: Create a streusel topping using oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon for added texture.

Save and Store

Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. If frozen, allow slices to thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQ

Can I use fresh apples or apple compote?

Fresh apples are preferred for their texture and flavor. Apple compote can be used but may add extra moisture; if using, reduce the added apple slices or adjust baking time accordingly.

Is this cake suitable for diabetics?

This cake contains sugar, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation. Replacing sugar with a sugar substitute suitable for baking can make it more diabetic-friendly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, the cake can be prepared a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge, and reheat gently if desired before serving.

Conclusion

This Light Spiced Apple Coffee Cake embodies the perfect harmony between healthfulness and indulgence. Its moist crumb, fragrant spices, and tender apple slices make it an irresistible addition to any meal or snack time. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, this cake exemplifies how wholesome ingredients can create a comforting, flavorful dessert suitable for all occasions. Remember, on Love With Recipes, we celebrate delicious and nutritious baking—this cake is no exception. Try it today and enjoy the warmth of autumn flavors year-round.

References

For further inspiration, consider exploring classic apple cake recipes by reputable sources such as “The Joy of Baking” and “Serious Eats,” which offer variations and techniques to enhance your baking repertoire.