What is Apple Crumb Cake? This isn’t just any cake, it’s the kind of cake that reminds me of crisp autumn days, the smell of autumn leaves. Is cinnamon filling the air, and my grandma’s cozy kitchen. Is it like a warm hug in dessert form? If you like apple pie but sometimes crave something a little less fussy, this Apple Crumb recipe is for you. Cake is going to be your new best friend. I swear, the combination of tender, moist cake, sweet-tart apples, and that buttery, crunchy crust. What is a crumb topping? What makes this one a hit at any occasion?
What is an apple crumb cake?
Apple Crumb Cake is a cross between coffee cake and apple crisp. The best of both worlds. What is essentially a moist, tender cake studded with juicy, spiced apples, all topped with generous amounts of whipped cream and sprinkles. Layer of sweet and buttery crumbs. What makes the crumb topping so special? What makes every bite so satisfying? What are fall flavors baked into a single, delicious dessert? Apple Crumb Cake is the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and comforting, making it a crowd-pleaser. What’s your slice of autumn happiness?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What are some good reasons to make Apple Crumb Cake? First off, the flavor is just amazing. What is the perfect combination of cinnamon and nutmeg in a cake? Is there a symphony of flavors that’s both comforting and irresist Is there a flavor profile that’s hard to beat?
What’s better than the taste? Is it necessary to be a seasoned baker to whip up this recipe? The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients simple. I’ve even taught my teenage nephew how to make a cake! What is a lifesaver when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen making ice cream?
I also love that it’s cost-efficient. Apples are generally inexpensive, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. How do I bake a delicious cake without spending much money? What is the best way to impress without spending a lot of money?
Is it incredibly versatile? Can you enjoy it for breakfast with coffee, as a delightful brunch treat, or as an opulent cozy treat. What is the best dessert after dinner? I’ve even served it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream – talk about heaven! What I love about this cake is that it manages to be both elegant and homey at the same time. Is it fancy enough for a special occasion but comforting enough to enjoy for an afternoon treat?
How do I make an apple crumb cake?
Quick Overview
How do I make an Apple Crumb Cake? How do I make a cake batter? What is the spiced apple filling? What is the best way to prepare a cake? If you’re a baker, add the topping, and bake it to golden perfection. What is the beauty of this method is that it’s all pretty straightforward, even if you’re not an experienced. What’s the best part about cooking? The aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes!
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
- I always use unbleached for the best flavor and texture. I use a 2 cup all-purpose flour.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: You can reduce this slightly if you prefer a less sweet cake.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Make sure it’s properly soften – not melted! – for a smooth batter.
- 1/2 cup milk: Whole milk gives the best richness, but you can also use 2% or even almond milk. I tested this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier!
- 2 large eggs: Use room temperature eggs for better emulsification.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: This is what gives the cake its light and fluffy texture. Make sure it’s fresh!
- What is the best vanilla extract to use?
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances out the flavors.
For the Filling:
- 3 medium apples, peeled, cored and diced: 1 large apple, 1 medium I prefer using a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for the perfect balance of sweet and tart. Is there any firm baking apple?
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adjust to taste depending on the sweetness of your apples.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the filling and prevent it from being too watery.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star of the show! Use good quality cinnamon for the best flavor.
- What is the flavor of ground cinnamon?
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Prevents apples from browning and adds a touch of brightness.
For the Crumb Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Again, I prefer unbleached.
- Can you use brown sugar for a caramel flavor?
- What is the key to a good crumb topping?
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Just a touch to tie it all together.
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sift it for a smooth glaze.
- 2-3 tablespoons milk: Add gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Optional, but it adds a nice touch of flavor.
What are the steps for
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. I always do this, even if my pan is non-stick because it helps prevent the cake from sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. What is the best way to distribute baking powder evenly?
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Set aside. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and milk. Make sure the eggs are fully incorporated before adding the vanilla extract and milk.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can result in a tough cake. A few streaks of flour are okay at this stage.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Set aside. Toss until apples are evenly coated. This step is crucial for preventing the apples from sinking to the bottom of the cake.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
If you have a 12″ pan, pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Then, spread the apple filling evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining batter over the apple filling. In a small bowl, mix the crumb topping ingredients together with the flour and salt. Set aside. What is the best way to make a coarse crumbs mixture?
Step 7: Bake
Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the cake batter. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. What is the best way to keep an eye on your oven’s baking times?
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before frosting. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract (if using) until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake. I like to wait until the cake is completely cool before glazing so it doesn’t melt right off. But if you prefer a more translucent glaze, you can drizzle it while the cake is still slightly warm.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Slice the cake into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. This cake is delicious on its own, but it’s also fantastic with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also serve it with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a comforting treat.
What to Serve It With
This Apple Crumb Cake is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. It’s honestly great any time of day!
For Breakfast: Imagine waking up to a slice of warm Apple Crumb Cake alongside a steaming cup of coffee. The cinnamon-spiced apples and buttery crumbs are the perfect complement to a strong, rich brew. Try pairing it with a dark roast coffee for a truly indulgent morning treat. I love serving it on a pretty plate with a dusting of powdered sugar for a little extra flair.
For Brunch: Elevate your brunch spread with a slice of this cake. It pairs beautifully with a light and bubbly mimosa or a refreshing glass of iced tea. For a more elegant presentation, serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped pecans.
As Dessert: This cake makes a wonderful after-dinner treat. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness. A glass of sweet dessert wine or a cup of herbal tea would be the perfect accompaniment.
For Cozy Snacks: Sometimes, you just need a comforting snack in the middle of the afternoon. A slice of this cake fits the bill perfectly! Serve it with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot cocoa for a cozy and satisfying treat. It’s especially good on a chilly day!
In my family, we have a tradition of making this cake every Thanksgiving. It’s the perfect way to end a festive meal and enjoy the flavors of fall. We usually serve it with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream and a generous drizzle of caramel sauce. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Apple Crumb Cake
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that can take this Apple Crumb Cake from good to absolutely amazing. Here are my top tips for perfecting this recipe:
Apple Prep: The type of apples you use can make a big difference in the overall flavor and texture of the cake. I prefer using a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for the perfect balance of sweet and tart. But really, any firm baking apple will work. Just be sure to peel, core, and dice them evenly so they cook properly. A little bit of lemon juice helps prevent browning and adds a touch of brightness.
Mixing Advice: When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined, and don’t worry if there are a few streaks of flour. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy.
Crumb Customization: The crumb topping is what really sets this cake apart, so don’t skimp on it! Use cold butter for the best texture. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg or some chopped pecans to the crumb topping for extra flavor and crunch. I sometimes add a tablespoon of quick oats to the crumb mixture, it’s a game changer.
Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to experiment with different variations of this cake. You can use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a slightly more caramel-like flavor. You can also add a handful of chopped nuts to the batter or the crumb topping. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to the batter for extra moisture and tang.
Baking Tips: Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the cake while it’s baking. Insert a wooden skewer into the center of the cake to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. If it comes out with wet batter on it, bake for a few more minutes and check again. If the crumb topping starts to brown too quickly, tent the cake with foil to prevent it from burning.
Glaze Variations: The glaze is the perfect finishing touch for this cake. You can use a simple powdered sugar glaze, or you can get creative with different flavors. Try adding a splash of maple syrup or a pinch of cinnamon to the glaze for extra warmth. You can also use a cream cheese glaze for a tangy twist.
I actually burnt the crumb topping once because I didn’t check the cake often enough – don’t be like me! Set a timer and keep a close eye on it during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Apple Crumb Cake is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be stored for later. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
Room Temperature: You can store the cake at room temperature for up to 2 days. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. I usually put a piece of parchment paper over the cut edges to keep them moist.
Refrigerator Storage: If you want to store the cake for longer, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Again, make sure to cover it tightly or store it in an airtight container. The cake may become slightly drier in the refrigerator, so you may want to add a little bit of glaze before serving.
Freezer Instructions: For long-term storage, you can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to store the cake for more than a day, I recommend waiting to add the glaze until just before serving. This will prevent the glaze from becoming soggy or dissolving. You can also make the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
One time, I froze a whole cake without wrapping it properly, and it ended up with freezer burn. It was still edible, but the texture was definitely not as good. Lesson learned – always wrap it tightly!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my all-time favorite Apple Crumb Cake recipe! I truly hope you give it a try because I know you’re going to absolutely love it. This cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of cozy autumn flavors and cherished memories. I think this cake is truly worth the effort. If you’re looking for more easy and delicious dessert recipes, be sure to check out my other blog posts. And if you try this recipe, please let me know how it turns out! Leave a comment below, rate the recipe, and share your own variations. Happy baking, friends!
Apple Crumb Cake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 medium apples, peeled and diced
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the diced apples.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
