easy Apple Crumb Cake

Apple crumb cake became my ultimate weekend baking project after a rainy Saturday when I needed something warm and comforting to fill the house with the smell of cinnamon and spice. I had fresh apples on hand and a craving for something that felt like coffee cake but with more texture and flavor. That’s how this deliciously layered, buttery apple crumb cake made its way into my kitchen and stayed.

Since then I’ve fallen in love with the way the soft spiced cake pairs with the juicy apple slices and that thick crumb topping that’s impossible to resist. Whether it’s for breakfast with coffee or dessert with a scoop of ice cream this recipe hits that perfect spot between cozy and satisfying every time.

Ingredients

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

• Apples – Bring moisture and sweetness to the center of the cake
• All-purpose flour – Forms the base of both the cake and the crumb topping
• Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps brown the top
• Brown sugar – Gives a rich molasses flavor to the crumb topping
• Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice throughout
• Baking powder – Lifts the cake and keeps it fluffy
• Salt – Balances all the sweetness
• Eggs – Bind the batter and help it rise
• Unsalted butter – Makes both the cake and the crumb topping rich and tender
• Milk – Keeps the cake moist and soft
• Vanilla extract – Brings a smooth, aromatic finish

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing Bowls – I use separate bowls for the cake batter and crumb topping
• Whisk & Spatula – Perfect for mixing dry and wet ingredients smoothly
• Electric Mixer – Helps cream the butter and sugar to a fluffy texture
• Peeler & Knife – For prepping the apples into thin, even slices
• 8×8 or 9×9 Baking Pan – Just the right size for thick slices and layers
• Parchment Paper – Makes removing the cake from the pan clean and easy
• Wire Rack – Helps cool the cake evenly before slicing

Instructions

Step 1:

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line my baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2:

I start by peeling and slicing the apples thinly. I like to toss them with a little cinnamon and sugar for extra flavor.

Step 3:

To make the crumb topping I mix flour brown sugar cinnamon and a pinch of salt in a bowl. I cut in cold butter with a fork or my fingers until the mixture forms pea-sized crumbs then I set it aside.

Step 4:

In a large bowl I cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. I add the eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract.

Step 5:

In another bowl I whisk together the flour baking powder cinnamon and salt. I add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients alternating with the milk and stir until just combined.

Step 6:

I spread half of the cake batter into the bottom of the pan then layer half of the apple slices over it. I repeat with the remaining batter and apples then generously sprinkle the crumb topping over the entire surface.

Step 7:

I bake the cake for 45 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the crumb is golden brown.

Step 8:

I let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before lifting it out and placing it on a wire rack. Once it’s completely cooled I slice it and enjoy every warm spiced bite.

Tips

I use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast with the sweet crumb

If the crumb starts to brown too quickly I lightly cover the pan with foil while baking

For a moister cake I don’t overmix the batter and always use room-temperature eggs and milk

A light dusting of powdered sugar on top makes it extra pretty for serving

Ways to Serve

With a hot cup of coffee or tea in the morning

As an afternoon snack with apple cider

Topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for dessert

Wrapped individually for gifting or picnics

Warmed slightly in the microwave for the perfect cozy treat

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Apple Crumb Cake ahead of time?

Yes it keeps beautifully! I often bake it the night before and store it covered at room temperature.

How should I store leftover Apple Crumb Cake?

I store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days or refrigerate it for up to a week.

Can I freeze this Apple Crumb Cake?

Absolutely. I slice and wrap each piece in plastic wrap then freeze for up to 2 months. I reheat it gently in the oven or microwave.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope this apple crumb cake brings as much comfort to your kitchen as it does to mine! It’s soft sweet perfectly spiced and that buttery crumb on top is everything. If you give it a try let me know how it turned out I’d love to hear all about your baking adventures!

Happy Cooking!

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