Apple Crumb Cake Recipe – Cozy Fall Dessert with Streusel Topping

Apple Crumb Cake is the kind of cozy, cinnamon-laced dessert that brings warmth to any table. Whether it’s served with coffee in the morning, as an afternoon treat, or as a not-too-sweet finale to dinner, this cake strikes the perfect balance between tender, buttery crumb and juicy apple layers.

Originating from German coffee cake traditions — think streuselkuchen — this American version keeps the generous crumb topping but adds the homey charm of apples baked right into the batter. It’s a rustic, nostalgic dessert that smells like autumn and tastes like comfort. The crumb topping is rich with brown sugar and spice, while the apple layer offers a subtle tartness that balances the sweetness beautifully.

This cake is especially delightful in cooler months, but honestly, it’s welcome any time of year. With its moist base, thick apple filling, and that golden-brown crumb, Apple Crumb Cake deserves a spot in every home baker’s rotation.

Ingredients Overview

Each component in Apple Crumb Cake plays an essential role in creating its layered texture and flavor complexity. Here’s what you’ll need and how each element contributes:

For the Cake Batter:

• All-purpose flour: The structure-builder. Sift for a tender crumb.

• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness without overpowering the apples.

• Unsalted butter: Adds richness. Use room temperature butter for smooth blending.

• Eggs: Essential for structure and moisture.

• Sour cream: Keeps the crumb moist and slightly tangy. Can substitute with full-fat Greek yogurt.

• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor profile.

• Baking powder + baking soda: Leaveners that ensure the cake rises properly.

• Salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavor.

For the Apple Filling:

• Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Granny Smith brings tartness and structure; Honeycrisp offers a sweeter profile.

• Cinnamon + nutmeg: Warm, classic spices for depth.

• Brown sugar: Creates a light caramelized effect as the apples bake.

• Lemon juice: Brightens the apples and prevents browning.

For the Crumb Topping:

• All-purpose flour: Base for a thick, sandy crumble.

• Brown sugar: Adds caramel tones and moisture.

• Cold butter: The key to that perfect crumbly texture. Cube it before cutting into flour.

• Cinnamon: Ties everything together with warmth.

• Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the sweet flavors.

Ingredient Tips:

• Always peel and thinly slice apples to ensure they soften fully while baking.

• Fresh apples are best, but if you’re in a pinch, drained canned apple pie filling can be a quick alternative.

• For a dairy-free option, use vegan butter and coconut yogurt.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Baking an Apple Crumb Cake is a delightful process that fills the kitchen with the smell of cinnamon and butter. Here’s how to get it just right:

1. Prepare the crumb topping

In a medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into pea-sized crumbs. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the rest — cold crumb yields the crispiest top.

2. Preheat and prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan or line with parchment for easy removal.

3. Make the apple filling

Peel and thinly slice the apples. Toss them in lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg. Set aside so they begin to soften and release juices.

4. Mix the cake batter

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until fluffy — about 2–3 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in sour cream and vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined. Don’t overmix — that’s the enemy of tenderness.

5. Layer the cake

Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out. Layer half the apples over the batter. Spoon the remaining batter on top, spreading gently. Top with the rest of the apples, then generously cover with the chilled crumb topping.

6. Bake

Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are okay). The crumb should be deeply golden and slightly crisp.

7. Cool and serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 20 minutes, then remove and cool completely on a wire rack. This cake is delicious warm, but even better after a few hours as the flavors settle.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Baking Tips:

• Cold butter = crunchy crumb: Always chill your crumb topping.

• Don’t overload with apples: Too many apples can weigh down the cake.

• Let it cool: The texture and flavor improve dramatically after it sets.

Flavor Variations:

• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts in the crumb add crunch.

• Apple & pear: Use a mix of apples and firm pears for a fall twist.

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cardamom or clove to the filling.

Dietary Substitutions:

• Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

• Dairy-free: Replace butter with vegan stick butter, and sour cream with coconut or almond yogurt.

• Lower sugar: Use coconut sugar or reduce overall sugar slightly without affecting the texture.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

Apple Crumb Cake shines in both casual and festive settings.

• Brunch centerpiece: Serve alongside hot coffee, lattes, or chai.

• Holiday dessert: A cozy alternative to pie on Thanksgiving or Christmas.

• Afternoon tea: Pair with a lightly sweet black or herbal tea.

• Potlucks & parties: Easy to slice and transport.

• Meal prep: It stays moist for days, making it great for snacking through the week.

The combination of cinnamon, tender apple, and buttery crumb is universally crowd-pleasing — comforting and nostalgic.

Nutritional & Health Notes

While Apple Crumb Cake is a dessert, it offers more than just sweetness. Apples bring fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, while the cake’s balance of fat and carbs makes it satisfying in modest portions.

To make it lighter:

• Use low-fat Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.

• Try a whole wheat pastry flour for added fiber.

• Swap some sugar for applesauce to reduce overall sugar content.

Keep in mind this is meant to be enjoyed — and a small slice with fruit or tea can easily fit into most balanced lifestyles.

FAQs

Q1: What are the best apples to use for Apple Crumb Cake?

A1: Granny Smith apples are ideal due to their tartness and firm texture, which holds up during baking. Honeycrisp, Braeburn, and Pink Lady also work well for a sweeter variation. Avoid overly soft varieties like Red Delicious, as they can become mushy.

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Q2: Can I make this cake in advance?

A2: Yes! Apple Crumb Cake stores beautifully. You can bake it the day before and keep it covered at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Let it come to room temp before serving, or warm slices briefly in the oven.

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Q3: Can I freeze Apple Crumb Cake?

A3: Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven for a freshly baked feel.

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Q4: How do I keep the crumb topping from sinking?

A4: The key is to use cold butter and chill the topping before applying it. Also, make sure your batter is thick enough to support the weight — avoid overly runny batter.

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Q5: Can I use a different fruit instead of apples?

A5: Yes! Pears, peaches, or even a mix of berries can work well. Just be sure to adjust sugar levels depending on the fruit’s sweetness and watch the bake time, as juicier fruits may require a few extra minutes.

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Q6: What pan works best for this cake?

A6: A 9-inch springform pan is ideal for easy removal and even baking. You can also use a square baking pan, but the crumb edges may bake faster — cover with foil if needed to prevent over-browning.

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Q7: How can I make this recipe more festive?

A7: Add a glaze made with powdered sugar and milk or cream cheese frosting for a richer finish. A sprinkle of toasted nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving also adds a festive touch.

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