Apple Coffee Cake Cream Cheese (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Cake Base

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
04 - 1 cup brown sugar, packed
05 - 2 teaspoons baking powder
06 - ½ teaspoon baking soda
07 - ½ teaspoon salt
08 - 1 teaspoon cinnamon
09 - 1 cup buttermilk
10 - 2 large eggs
11 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
12 - 2 cups apples, peeled and diced (about 2 medium apples)

→ Cream Cheese Filling

13 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
14 - 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
15 - ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Optional Topping

16 - 1 tablespoon sugar
17 - Cinnamon for sprinkling

# Instructions:

01 - Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
02 - In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
04 - Add eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla to the butter mixture and stir until well blended. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Fold in the diced apples.
05 - In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
06 - Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Drop spoonfuls of cream cheese mixture over the top and gently swirl with a butter knife. Pour remaining batter over this layer and spread evenly.
07 - If desired, mix a tablespoon of sugar with cinnamon and sprinkle over the top of the batter.
08 - Bake in preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
09 - Allow cake to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. Pairs wonderfully with coffee.

# Notes:

01 - For best results, use firm baking apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
02 - The cake can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days