From Recipe Box 37

Apple Pear Coffee Cake

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About this recipe

Recipe box
Box 37

This Apple Pear Coffee Cake combines the best of autumn’s bounty into one deliciously moist and flavorful cake. With a rich mixture of apples and pears nestled within a soft, sweet batter and topped with a crunchy nut streusel, it’s perfect for a cozy morning coffee or as a comforting dessert.

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Apple Pear Coffee Cake

Apple Pear Coffee Cake Recipe Card

Apple Pear Coffee Cake

Front of the recipe card for Apple Pear Coffee Cake.

Apple Pear Coffee Cake

Apple Pear Coffee Cake Recipe Card Back

Back of the recipe card for Apple Pear Coffee Cake.

Food History

Coffee cakes, which are traditionally served with coffee or tea at breakfast, have roots in various European cuisines, evolving into the sweet, crumbly cakes enjoyed today. Apples and pears have been staple fruits in baking due to their versatility and availability, making them popular choices for such recipes.

Timeline

  • 17th Century: The concept of coffee cake begins in Europe, particularly in Germany, with the inclusion of sweet yeasted breads.
  • 19th Century: Introduction of baking powder and baking soda revolutionizes baking, leading to the modern coffee cake.
  • 20th Century: Apples and pears become common in American desserts, celebrated for their flavor and texture in cakes and pies.

Recipe Discussion

The cake starts with a base of creamed butter and sugar, to which eggs and vanilla are added for richness and flavor. Flour, leavening agents, and sour cream make up the bulk of the batter, providing a tender crumb that perfectly complements the finely chopped apples and pears. The streusel topping, a mixture of brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, and nuts, adds a delightful crunch and spice that elevate this cake from simple to spectacular.

Serving Suggestions

This coffee cake is wonderful served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a brunch spread, accompany it with a selection of fresh fruits and coffee or tea.

Preparation Tips

  • Fruit Preparation: Ensure the apples and pears are chopped finely to distribute them evenly throughout the cake, which also helps them cook thoroughly.
  • Batter Consistency: The batter should be thick to support the fruit and topping; if it’s too runny, add a bit more flour.
  • Streusel Topping: To get the best texture, make sure the butter for the topping is very soft but not melted.

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Apple Pear Coffee Cake Recipe

Apple Pear Coffee Cake

Apple Pear Coffee Cake

Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
No Ratings

Ingredients

  • ½ cup butter (1 stick) softened,
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp. vanilla
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 tsp. baking soda
  • 1 tsp. baking powder
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • 1 cup dairy sour cream
  • 2 cups finely chopped apples & pear (2 apples, 1 pear) (or 2 cups apples)
  • 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • ½ cup chopped nuts
  • 2 tbs. butter, softened
  • 1 tsp. cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Grease baking pan, 13x9x2".
  2. Cream ½ cup butter and the granulated sugar.
  3. Mix in eggs and vanilla; beat well.
  4. Stir in flour, baking soda, baking powder, and [salt] alternately with sour cream.
  5. Fold in apples and pear.
  6. Spread batter in pan.
  7. Mix remaining ingredients and sprinkle evenly over batter.
  8. Bake 45-55 min. @ 350°.

The Apple Pear Coffee Cake is an excellent way to welcome the fall season or add sweetness to any day of the year. Its comforting flavors and textures will surely please anyone looking for a homemade treat.

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