Apple Crumb Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like home, you’ve come to the right place. This Apple Crumb Cake is my go-to recipe for cozy gatherings, lazy Sundays, or when I just need a slice of something sweet to brighten my day. With its moist vanilla cinnamon cake, tender cinnamon sugar apples, and a crumbly topping drizzled with maple glaze, this cake is sure to create happy memories around the table.

What makes this Apple Crumb Cake truly special is its versatility. It’s perfect for family get-togethers, holiday celebrations, or simply as a treat after a long week. Every bite is warm and comforting, reminding you of fall days spent baking in the kitchen. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this delightful dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you’ll have this cake ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet apple filling and crunchy topping.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a potluck or an after-dinner treat, this cake fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Option: Bake it a day in advance; it tastes even better after sitting overnight!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and apples brings warmth to every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! This Apple Crumb Cake uses simple and wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

• 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 recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Mix in Other Fruits: Try adding blueberries or cranberries for a different twist.
• Swap the Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor profile.
• Go Gluten-Free: Substitute with your favorite gluten-free flour blend if needed.

How to Make Apple Crumb Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by peeling and dicing your apples. Toss them with granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a bowl. This step is crucial because it draws out their natural sweetness and infuses them with flavor. Set aside while you prepare the rest of the cake.

Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

In another bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and room temperature butter until crumbly. Use your fingers to combine until it resembles coarse crumbs. This topping adds texture and deliciousness that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake.

Step 3: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, softened butter, granulated sugar, eggs, sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth. This batter creates a moist base that holds all those tasty apple bits perfectly!

Step 4: Assemble Your Cake

Pour half of the batter into your prepared baking dish. Spread half of your apple mixture on top followed by half of your crumb topping. Repeat with the remaining batter, apples, and crumbs. Layering adds depth of flavor and keeps each bite exciting.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be irresistible! Baking slowly allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Prepare the Maple Glaze

While your cake cools, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, sour cream, vanilla extract, and water until smooth. Drizzle this over your cooled cake for an added touch of sweetness that ties everything together.

And there you have it—your very own Apple Crumb Cake! I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crumb Cake

Making the perfect Apple Crumb Cake is all about the little details. Here are some pro tips to ensure your cake turns out beautifully!

• Choose the right apples: Using a variety of sweet and tart apples, like Gala or Granny Smith, will add depth to the flavor and keep the cake juicy.

• Room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter, eggs, and sour cream to room temperature helps them mix more evenly, creating a smoother batter and a fluffier texture.

• Don’t skip the crumb topping: The crumb topping adds that delicious crunch and sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake. Make sure to sprinkle it generously on top before baking!

• Use a toothpick test: To check if your cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your cake is ready to be enjoyed!

• Let it cool properly: Allow your Apple Crumb Cake to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its structure and keeps it from crumbling.

How to Serve Apple Crumb Cake

Serving your Apple Crumb Cake can turn an ordinary dessert into an extraordinary experience! With just a few simple touches, you can impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds elegance and sweetness without overpowering the flavors of the cake.
• Whipped coconut cream: This dairy-free alternative is creamy and rich, providing a delightful contrast to the crumbly texture of the cake.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: This classic pairing offers a creamy complement that contrasts beautifully with the warm spices in the cake.
• Fresh berries: A side of mixed berries adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bite.
• Coffee or tea: Serving warm slices of this cake alongside coffee or herbal tea not only enhances the flavors but also makes for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Yogurt parfait: A light yogurt parfait with granola and fruit provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the cake while adding some health benefits.

Enjoy every slice of your homemade Apple Crumb Cake – it’s sure to become a favorite among friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Crumb Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can bake it ahead of time, enjoy it fresh, and keep it on hand for those sweet cravings throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• For best flavor and texture, let it come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped slices or cake in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place slices on a baking sheet and cover with foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Apple Crumb Cake!

Can I substitute other fruits in this Apple Crumb Cake?

Absolutely! While apples shine in this recipe, feel free to experiment with pears or even berries. Just ensure they’re diced and have similar moisture content.

How do I ensure my Apple Crumb Cake stays moist?

To keep your Apple Crumb Cake moist, avoid overmixing the batter. Additionally, using room temperature ingredients like eggs and sour cream helps achieve that perfect texture.

What’s the best way to serve Apple Crumb Cake?

This cake is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It makes for a lovely dessert at any gathering!

How long does this Apple Crumb Cake last?

When stored properly, your Apple Crumb Cake can last up to four days in the fridge. If frozen, it can be enjoyed for up to three months!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about this Apple Crumb Cake recipe! It’s truly a comforting dessert that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends—or enjoying all on your own. The warm spices and sweet apples create a delightful treat that feels just like home. Enjoy making it, savoring each bite, and spreading joy through this delicious creation. Happy baking!