Apple Crumb Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! This Apple Crumb Cake is a treasured recipe in my home, perfect for cozy gatherings or just a sweet treat after dinner. The combination of moist vanilla cinnamon cake, sweet cinnamon sugar apples, and a crumbly topping makes it simply irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family celebration, this cake is bound to bring smiles all around.

What makes this Apple Crumb Cake truly special is its inviting aroma and comforting flavors. Each bite takes you straight to dessert paradise, filled with the warmth of spices and the sweetness of apples. It’s not only delicious but also easy to whip up, making it an ideal choice for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and ingredients, you’ll have this delicious cake ready in no time!
• Family Favorite: This Apple Crumb Cake is sure to please everyone at the table, from kids to grandparents.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an ordinary Tuesday night, this cake fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake ahead of time and enjoy it fresh out of the oven or warmed up later.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of apples and warm spices creates a cozy flavor profile that is hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Gather these items, and you’ll be well on your way to creating something truly special!

For the Apple Filling

• 4 small or 3 large red gala apples (diced)
• 1 1/2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

For the Crumb Topping

• 120 g all-purpose flour
• 200 g dark brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 85 g butter (room temperature)

For the Cake Batter

• 340 g all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 125 g butter (room temperature)
• 225 g granulated sugar
• 3 eggs (room temperature)
• 225 g sour cream (14-18%, room temperature)
• 40 g vegetable oil (e.g., canola oil)
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Maple Glaze

• 125 g powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp sour cream
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1-2 tsp water

Variations

One of the best things about this Apple Crumb Cake is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch!
• Mix in Berries: Add blueberries or cranberries for a burst of tart flavor alongside the apples.
• Change Up the Spices: Try adding nutmeg or ginger for an alternative spice profile.
• Use Different Apples: Experiment with Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for varying sweetness and tartness.

How to Make Apple Crumb Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix diced apples with granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Let them sit while you prepare the rest of your ingredients. This step draws out their natural juices and enhances their sweetness.

Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

In another bowl, mix together flour, dark brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Then add in room temperature butter using your fingers or a pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs. This crumb topping adds texture and flavor that perfectly complements the moist cake beneath.

Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, cream together room temperature butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in eggs one at a time followed by sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mixing these ingredients well ensures your cake rises beautifully!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Gently fold in your prepared apple filling into the batter until just combined. Pour half of this mixture into your greased baking pan then sprinkle half of your crumb topping on top. Add the remaining batter followed by more crumb topping on top. This layered approach gives every slice that delightful crumbly texture.

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow it to cool slightly before drizzling with maple glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with maple syrup, sour cream, vanilla extract, and water.

And there you have it! A scrumptious Apple Crumb Cake that’s sure to impress anyone who takes a bite! Enjoy every moment as you share this lovely treat with friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crumb Cake

Creating the perfect Apple Crumb Cake is all about attention to detail and a sprinkle of love! Here are some pro tips to ensure your cake turns out beautifully every time.

• Use fresh apples – Fresh, crisp apples will provide the best flavor and texture. Opting for varieties like Gala or Fuji ensures your cake is bursting with sweetness and moisture.
• Room temperature ingredients – Bringing your butter, eggs, and sour cream to room temperature helps them blend better, resulting in a smoother batter that bakes evenly.
• Don’t skip the crumb topping – The crumb topping not only adds an irresistible crunch but also enhances the overall look of the cake. Make sure to distribute it evenly for a delightful texture in every bite.
• Check for doneness – Ovens can vary in temperature, so use a toothpick to check if the center of your cake is baked through. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, it’s ready!
• Let it cool before serving – Allowing your cake to cool completely before cutting helps it set and makes for cleaner slices. Plus, the flavors have time to meld beautifully!

How to Serve Apple Crumb Cake

Serving your Apple Crumb Cake can be just as enjoyable as baking it! Whether it’s a casual family gathering or a special celebration, here are some delightful ways to present this treat.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream – A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the dense cake beautifully.
• Caramel drizzle – Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice gives an extra layer of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the spiced apples.
• Chopped nuts – Sprinkling crushed walnuts or pecans on top adds both crunch and nuttiness, enhancing the flavor profile of the cake.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream – Creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts wonderfully with the warmth of the cake, creating a classic dessert duo that everyone loves.
• Fresh fruit salad – A refreshing fruit salad provides a burst of freshness that balances out the richness of the crumb cake. Try mixing berries, melons, and citrus for color and flavor.
• Hot tea or coffee – Serving your cake alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for gatherings. The warmth of these beverages pairs beautifully with the spiced flavors of the cake.
• Yogurt parfaits – Layering yogurt with fruits and granola offers a light side dish option that complements the sweetness of the apple crumb cake while adding a healthy twist.

Enjoy creating this delightful dessert experience! Your Apple Crumb Cake will surely be a hit at any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Crumb Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and enjoy its delightful flavors over several days. Here’s how to store it effectively:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate it for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the cake into portions before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
• Label the bag with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, ensure all air is removed from the bag.

Reheating

• Thaw slices of the cake overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• For a warm treat, microwave individual slices for about 20-30 seconds.
• Alternatively, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious Apple Crumb Cake!

Can I substitute any ingredients in the Apple Crumb Cake?

Yes! You can use different types of apples based on your preference. Also, feel free to swap sour cream with yogurt for a lighter option.

How long will my Apple Crumb Cake last?

If stored properly, your Apple Crumb Cake can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.

Can I make the Apple Crumb Cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Apple Crumb Cake as much as I do! Its warm spices and rich flavors are sure to bring smiles around your table. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a simple afternoon treat, this cake is bound to become a favorite. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your delicious results!