Apple Crumb Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! This Apple Crumb Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly comforting. The combination of moist vanilla cinnamon cake, sweet cinnamon apples, and a crumbly topping will make your taste buds dance with joy. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this cake brings everyone together, making it a cherished favorite in my kitchen.

There’s something special about the way the aroma of baking apples fills the home, creating an inviting atmosphere that welcomes all. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, enjoying a cozy Sunday afternoon, or simply satisfying a sweet craving, this Apple Crumb Cake is sure to please!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this cake is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the delightful blend of flavors and textures—kids and adults alike will be asking for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve. It’s just as tasty days later!
• Delicious Flavor: The warm spices combined with sweet apples create a flavor explosion that feels like home in every bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or an everyday treat, this cake fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making this Apple Crumb Cake, you’ll find that the ingredients are both simple and wholesome. Let’s gather everything we need to create this scrumptious dessert!

For the Apples:

• 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 Apple Crumb Cake recipe is its flexibility! You can easily switch things up to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
• Use Different Fruits: Substitute apples with pears or berries for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it Up: Add nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth and spice.
• Make it Vegan: Swap eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based yogurt instead of sour cream.

How to Make Apple Crumb Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by peeling and dicing your apples. Mixing them with granulated sugar and ground cinnamon allows them to release their natural sweetness while baking. Set them aside so they can soak up all those flavors!

Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Then mix in room temperature butter until you get crumbly bits. This topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake beneath.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients for Cake

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. This step ensures that your dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter for consistent flavor.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In your mixing bowl, beat room temperature butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cake that lovely rise.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Sour Cream

Now add eggs one at a time and mix well after each addition. The sour cream adds moisture to your cake while keeping it tender and rich.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined. Gently fold in those delicious apple pieces so every slice has that fruity goodness.

Step 7: Bake Your Cake

Pour half of the batter into your prepared pan, sprinkle on half of your crumb topping, then spread on remaining batter followed by more crumbs on top. Bake until golden brown—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 8: Create Maple Glaze

While your cake cools slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, sour cream, vanilla extract, and water until smooth. Drizzle over your warm cake for an irresistible finish!

And there you have it—your very own homemade Apple Crumb Cake ready to be enjoyed! It’s perfect served warm or at room temperature alongside a cup of tea or coffee. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crumb Cake

Baking can be an adventure, and with these pro tips, your Apple Crumb Cake will turn out even more delightful!

• Use fresh apples: Fresh, firm apples like Gala or Granny Smith not only add flavor but also provide a lovely texture that holds up during baking.

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and allows for better mixing, resulting in a moist cake.

• Don’t skimp on the crumb topping: A generous layer of crumb topping gives your cake that signature crunch and sweetness. Make sure it’s evenly distributed for maximum enjoyment!

• Check doneness with a toothpick: Since ovens can vary, use a toothpick to test your cake. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs when the cake is fully baked.

• Let it cool before glazing: Allow your cake to cool completely before adding the maple glaze. This ensures the glaze doesn’t melt into the warm cake and creates a beautiful finish.

How to Serve Apple Crumb Cake

Presenting your Apple Crumb Cake can enhance the overall experience! Here are some creative ideas to serve this delicious dessert.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light and creamy contrast to the rich flavors of the cake.
• Cinnamon sugar sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar over the top before serving adds a sweet touch and enhances the aroma.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle toasted walnuts or pecans on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the apples beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing of warm cake with cold vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast that’s simply irresistible.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice adds richness and indulgence that takes this dessert to another level.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad balances the sweetness of the cake, providing a perfect complement to its rich flavors.
• Coffee or tea: Serve with a cup of coffee or herbal tea for a cozy touch, making it an ideal treat for afternoon gatherings or dessert after dinner.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Apple Crumb Cake will be not just a dessert but an experience that everyone will cherish! Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Crumb Cake is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a delicious dessert throughout the week! Here’s how you can store it, freeze it for later, and reheat slices to perfection.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the cake, where it will keep well for about a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• To reheat individual slices, microwave on medium power for about 20-30 seconds or until warmed through.
• For an entire cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed throughout.

FAQs

Have some questions about this delightful recipe? Here are a few common inquiries!

Can I use different types of apples for the Apple Crumb Cake?

Absolutely! While gala apples are sweet and tender, you can also experiment with Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast or Honeycrisp apples for extra sweetness.

How do I ensure my Apple Crumb Cake stays moist?

To keep your Apple Crumb Cake moist, make sure not to overbake it. Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean but still have a slight crumb when done.

Can I make this Apple Crumb Cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

How long does the Apple Crumb Cake last?

When stored properly at room temperature, your Apple Crumb Cake will be delicious for about two days. If refrigerated, it can last up to a week!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Apple Crumb Cake as I am! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a cozy moment shared with loved ones or enjoyed solo with a warm cup of tea. The combination of cinnamon-sugar apples and that irresistible crumb topping is sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy baking this delightful treat and savor every bite—it’s truly special!