Apple Crumb Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like home, you’ve found it with this Apple Crumb Cake! This cake is a wonderful combination of moist vanilla cinnamon cake and sweet, spiced apples. Topped with a crumbly layer and a drizzle of maple glaze, it’s simply divine. Whether you’re welcoming guests, celebrating a birthday, or just enjoying a cozy family dinner, this cake will be the star of the show.

What I love most about this Apple Crumb Cake is how it brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. The aroma of baking apples and cinnamon fills the house, making everyone feel right at home. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, so even on busy weeknights, you can treat your loved ones to something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet apples and warm spices makes each bite delightful.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you’ll have this cake in the oven in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves apple desserts! This cake is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it in advance for parties or gatherings. It tastes even better the next day!
• Perfectly Cozy: This cake feels like a warm hug—ideal for chilly evenings or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make this delectable Apple Crumb Cake. You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store!

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% fat, 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

This recipe is super flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your personal taste preferences.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Use Different Apples: Try Granny Smith for a tart kick or Honeycrisp for extra sweetness!
• Incorporate Spices: A pinch of nutmeg or ginger can add another layer of flavor.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.

How to Make Apple Crumb Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by dicing your apples into small pieces. Toss them in a bowl with granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Let them sit while you prepare the rest of the batter; this will help release their natural juices and enhance their flavor.

Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

In another bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Cut in room-temperature butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set it aside; this topping will create that irresistible crunchy layer on top!

Step 3: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour with baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. In another bowl, beat together room-temperature butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add in eggs one at a time followed by sour cream and vegetable oil. Stir in vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Gently fold in your prepared apples to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour half of the batter into a greased baking pan. Sprinkle half of your crumb topping over it before layering on the remaining batter. Finish with the rest of the crumb topping on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 70 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 6: Prepare the Maple Glaze

While your cake cools slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, sour cream, vanilla extract, and enough water to reach your desired consistency. Drizzle this sweet glaze over your cake for an extra touch of goodness!

Now grab yourself a slice of this beautiful Apple Crumb Cake and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crumb Cake

Creating the perfect Apple Crumb Cake is all about attention to detail, so here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out wonderfully every time!

• Choose the right apples: Opt for sweet and tart varieties like Gala or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape well during baking and provide a delightful contrast to the sweet cake.

• Room temperature ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and dairy helps create a smooth batter that rises evenly, leading to a fluffier texture in your final cake.

• Don’t skip the crumb topping: The crumb topping adds a wonderful crunch and caramelized flavor that complements the moist cake beneath it. Make sure to use cold butter for a perfect crumble.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended time by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

• Cool before serving: Allow your Apple Crumb Cake to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps set the cake and makes slicing easier.

How to Serve Apple Crumb Cake

Serving your Apple Crumb Cake can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to elevate your dessert experience.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top of your cooled cake adds an elegant touch without overpowering its flavors.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a delightful twist, serve with whipped coconut cream. It’s dairy-free and complements the spices beautifully.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top of each slice for added crunch and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm slices of Apple Crumb Cake, enhancing its comforting qualities.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cake for an extra layer of sweetness that complements the cinnamon apples beautifully.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing side of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the richness of the cake.
• Coffee or tea: Serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or herbal tea for a cozy dessert experience that warms both heart and soul.

With these tips and serving ideas in hand, you’re ready to bake and share this scrumptious Apple Crumb Cake. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Crumb Cake is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well, making it an excellent choice for busy weeks. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it properly to enjoy later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store the wrapped cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate it where it will last up to a week.

Freezing

• Make sure the cake is completely cooled before freezing.
• Slice the cake into individual pieces for easy serving later.
• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove the desired slice from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a quick warm-up, microwave on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can reheat slices in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Apple Crumb Cake:

Can I use other types of apples for this Apple Crumb Cake?

Absolutely! While red gala apples work beautifully, you can use any variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Just ensure they are firm and flavorful.

How do I know when my Apple Crumb Cake is done baking?

You can check if your Apple Crumb Cake is ready by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs (not wet batter), it’s done!

Can I make this Apple Crumb Cake gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your other ingredients, like baking powder, are also gluten-free.

What can I use instead of sour cream in this recipe?

If you prefer not to use sour cream, you can substitute it with plain yogurt or buttermilk. Both alternatives provide moisture and a slight tang similar to sour cream.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Crumb Cake is truly special with its delightful combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this cake is sure to impress! I hope you find joy in making this recipe as much as I do. Enjoy every bite, and remember—baking is all about love!