Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake – Warm, Buttery & Irresistible

Nothing says comfort like a warm slice of Apple Crumb Cake, where soft spiced apple cake meets a golden, buttery crumble topping. This dessert is the perfect fusion of moist apple coffee cake and classic apple pie, layered with cozy fall spices and a crunchy streusel that melts into the top as it bakes.

It’s an ideal make-ahead treat for holiday tables, weekend brunches, or an afternoon coffee break. The combination of sweet apples, cinnamon, and crumb topping creates a rustic and crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy to prepare, deeply satisfying, and completely irresistible.

Serve it warm, room temperature, or chilled — on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Ingredients Overview

This apple crumb cake is made with pantry staples and real fruit — no boxed mixes or shortcuts, just honest, whole ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what each component contributes:

For the Cake:

• Apples: Choose crisp, sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Braeburn. Peel and chop into small cubes for even baking.

• Flour: All-purpose flour provides structure. You can swap with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if needed.

• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: A blend of both ensures the cake rises evenly and stays tender.

• Sugar: A mix of white and brown sugar gives the right balance of sweetness and caramel undertones.

• Cinnamon & Nutmeg: Add warmth and depth to the apple flavor.

• Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness and moisture. Use at room temperature for easier creaming.

• Eggs: Bind the batter and contribute to a tender crumb.

• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Adds moisture, tang, and softness to the cake. Yogurt works as a lighter substitute.

• Vanilla Extract: Enhances flavor and adds aroma.

For the Crumb Topping:

• Flour: Gives the crumble structure.

• Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and a molasses-rich flavor.

• Butter: Cold, cubed butter helps form the crumb texture.

• Cinnamon: A must-have spice in streusel toppings.

• Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the buttery flavor.

Optional additions:

• Chopped Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add crunch and richness to the topping.

• Powdered Sugar: Light dusting after baking for a bakery-style finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Make the Crumb Topping
   In a medium bowl, combine ¾ cup flour, ½ cup brown sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
   Add 6 tbsp cold, cubed butter and mix with a pastry cutter or fork until coarse crumbs form.
   Chill while preparing the cake batter.

3. Prepare the Apples
   Peel and chop 2 medium apples into small ½-inch cubes. Toss with a teaspoon of cinnamon and set aside.

4. Make the Cake Batter

   • In a bowl, whisk 1½ cups flour, 1½ tsp baking powder, ¼ tsp baking soda, ½ tsp cinnamon, ¼ tsp nutmeg, and ¼ tsp salt.

   • In another bowl, cream together ½ cup unsalted butter (softened), ½ cup granulated sugar, and ¼ cup brown sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).

   • Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, then stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract and ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt.

   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix just until combined.

   • Fold in the chopped apples gently.

5. Assemble the Cake
   Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
   Sprinkle the crumb topping over the batter in an even layer.

6. Bake
   Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
   Cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

7. Serve
   Serve warm or at room temperature. Dust with powdered sugar if desired, or serve with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

• Make It Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for both the cake and crumble.

• Lighter Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduce sugar slightly if preferred.

• Add Nuts: Stir chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter or topping for extra crunch.

• Add Fruit: A handful of fresh cranberries or diced pears can be added to the apples for a seasonal twist.

• Crumblier Topping: Use more flour and less butter if you prefer a dry, bakery-style crumb.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

• Holiday Dessert: A classic addition to Thanksgiving or Christmas dessert tables.

• Brunch or Coffee Break: Serve as a sweet offering with coffee or tea.

• Fall Celebrations: Perfect for apple-picking season or cozy Sunday baking.

• Potlucks & Picnics: Easy to slice and transport — no need for frosting.

Pair it with:

• A hot mug of chai or spiced cider

• Fresh whipped cream or crème fraîche

• Sliced apples or toasted pecans on top

Nutritional & Health Notes

This is a classic dessert-style cake, meant to be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced lifestyle. Here’s a snapshot of what it offers:

• Apples: Provide fiber, vitamin C, and natural sweetness.

• Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: Adds calcium and protein, with a tangy flavor that balances sweetness.

• Butter: Adds richness and mouthfeel — use mindfully if watching saturated fat intake.

• Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg not only add flavor but offer antioxidant benefits.

A standard slice (1/9 of a 9×9 pan) contains roughly 320–360 calories, depending on sugar and butter amounts. You can lighten it by reducing sugar or using low-fat yogurt.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this apple crumb cake ahead of time?

A1: Yes! This cake keeps well at room temperature for 1–2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Warm individual slices in the microwave before serving for best texture.

Q2: What apples work best?

A2: Firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn are ideal. They hold their shape and contrast beautifully with the sweet crumb topping.

Q3: Can I freeze apple crumb cake?

A3: Yes. Wrap slices individually or the whole cooled cake in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes.

Q4: Can I double this recipe?

A4: Absolutely. Double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Increase baking time to 50–55 minutes and check for doneness with a toothpick.

Q5: Can I make this dairy-free?

A5: Yes. Use a plant-based butter and dairy-free yogurt alternative. The texture will remain moist, but the flavor may be slightly different.

Q6: Why is my crumb topping sinking?

A6: The topping may sink if it’s too soft or the batter is too thin. Be sure to chill the topping and avoid overmixing the batter.

Q7: Can I add oats to the crumb topping?

A7: Yes! Replace ¼ cup of the flour with rolled oats for extra texture and a rustic touch.

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