Apple Crumb Cake

Apple Crumb Cake always reminds me of cozy Sunday mornings at my grandmother’s house when the smell of warm cinnamon and apples would drift through the kitchen as soon as I walked in. I would always sneak a crumb or two from the topping before it made it into the oven and now whenever I bake this cake I can’t help but smile because it tastes just like those sweet memories.

What I love most about this recipe is how the tender spiced cake base holds the juicy apples so beautifully and the buttery crumb topping adds the perfect crunchy contrast and since then it has become a go-to recipe for family brunches casual dinners and even holiday mornings when something comforting is just what we need.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• All-purpose flour – Forms the structure of the cake and crumb topping.
• Brown sugar – Adds rich caramel-like sweetness to both the cake and the crumb layer.
• White sugar – Balances the flavor and sweetens the cake base.
• Baking powder – Gives the cake its light and fluffy rise.
• Ground cinnamon – Brings warm spice that pairs perfectly with the apples.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
• Butter – Used in the cake and crumb topping for moisture and richness.
• Eggs – Binds everything together and gives the cake its tender texture.
• Milk – Adds moisture to the batter making it smooth and pourable.
• Vanilla extract – Adds depth and warmth to the flavor.
• Apples – The highlight of the cake adding juiciness and a touch of tartness.
• Tools You’ll Need
• Mixing bowls – One for the cake batter and one for the crumb topping.
• Hand or stand mixer – Helps cream the butter and sugars together for a light fluffy base.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate and consistent results.
• Rubber spatula – Useful for folding and scraping the batter into the pan.
• 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan – Ensures even baking and a beautiful shape.
• Cooling rack – To let the cake cool evenly before serving.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

I start by preheating the oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a 9-inch round cake pan. Sometimes I also dust it with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

In a medium bowl I combine flour brown sugar cinnamon and a pinch of salt then I cut in the cold butter with a fork until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. I pop it in the fridge while I prepare the cake batter.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl I whisk together the flour baking powder cinnamon and salt to make sure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using my hand mixer I cream the butter with the white and brown sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step helps create that soft and tender crumb.

Step 5: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

I beat in the eggs one at a time followed by the vanilla extract. I make sure everything is well incorporated before moving on.

Step 6: Combine the Wet and Dry

I alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk into the butter mixture starting and ending with the dry. I mix until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.

Step 7: Layer the Cake

I pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Then I layer the thinly sliced apples over the top before sprinkling the chilled crumb topping evenly across the surface.

Step 8: Bake

I bake the cake for 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The crumb topping should be golden and slightly crisp.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

I let the cake cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes then transfer it to a wire rack. Once it’s cool I dust it with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.

Tips

I like to use a mix of tart and sweet apples for better flavor balance and sometimes I add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the crumb for more autumnal warmth. If you want to make it even more decadent a drizzle of caramel sauce works beautifully on top. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated gently in the oven.

Ways to Serve

Warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream

With a cup of coffee or spiced chai

As part of a fall brunch spread

Topped with whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Apple Crumb Cake in advance?

Yes you can bake it a day ahead and store it covered at room temperature or in the fridge.

What kind of apples work best for Apple Crumb Cake?

I prefer using Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for a naturally sweet bite.

Can I freeze Apple Crumb Cake?

Absolutely just wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months then thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try this Apple Crumb Cake and fall in love with its warm cozy flavors just like I did. Whether you’re baking for a special brunch or simply craving something sweet and spiced this cake always delivers comfort in every slice.

Happy Cooking!

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