Apple Crumb Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that combines the warmth of home-baked goodness with the irresistible flavors of autumn, this Apple Crumb Cake is just what you need. Every bite is a celebration of moist vanilla cake, spiced apples, and a crunchy crumb topping that feels like a cozy hug. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings and will surely become a favorite in your home.

This cake is not only delicious but also brings together simple ingredients that transform into something extraordinary. Whether you’re baking for a holiday feast or just to enjoy on a rainy afternoon, this Apple Crumb Cake will make every occasion feel special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, baking this cake is a breeze.
• Family-Friendly Delight: Everyone loves the combination of sweet apples and warm spices!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great as an everyday treat or for celebrations, it always impresses.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can bake it ahead of time and enjoy it later; it stays moist and flavorful.
• Deliciously Satisfying: The blend of textures from the crumb topping and soft cake makes it hard to resist!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Apple Crumb Cake is part of the fun! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 Batter

• 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

This Apple Crumb Cake recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Try Different Apples: Swap out gala apples for Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a unique taste.
• Incorporate Dried Fruits: Add raisins or cranberries for an extra burst of sweetness.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom to change up the flavor profile.

How to Make Apple Crumb Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by peeling and dicing your apples into small pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine them with granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This step is essential as it infuses the apples with sweetness and spice, making them even more delicious when baked.

Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

In another bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Then, add room-temperature butter and use your fingers to combine until it resembles coarse crumbs. This crumb topping will add that wonderful crunch to each slice of cake.

Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, cream together room-temperature butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in eggs one at a time, followed by sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mixing these wet ingredients thoroughly ensures your cake will be rich and moist.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Finally, fold in your prepared apples so they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and sprinkle the crumb topping generously over it. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The aroma will fill your kitchen as it bakes!

Step 6: Drizzle with Maple Glaze

While your cake cools down slightly, mix powdered sugar with maple syrup, sour cream, vanilla extract, and enough water to reach your desired consistency. Drizzle this glaze over your cooled cake for an extra touch of sweetness.

And there you have it—your very own Apple Crumb Cake! I can’t wait for you to share this with friends and family; they’re going to love it as much as I do! Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crumb Cake

Baking this Apple Crumb Cake is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you will ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right apples: Opt for sweet and tart varieties like Gala or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape during baking and provide the ideal flavor balance.

• Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.

• Don’t skip the crumb topping: A generous crumb topping adds texture and flavor. Make sure to use cold butter when making the crumb mixture for that perfect crunchy finish.

• Use a toothpick test: To know if your cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. This prevents overbaking.

• Cool completely before glazing: Allow the cake to cool fully before adding the maple glaze. This ensures the glaze adheres properly and doesn’t melt into the warm cake.

How to Serve Apple Crumb Cake

This Apple Crumb Cake is perfect for any occasion! Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or an elegant tea party, presenting it beautifully can make all the difference.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of homemade whipped coconut cream adds a delightful creaminess that complements the spices in the cake.

• Toasted nuts: Sprinkling some chopped toasted walnuts or pecans on top provides a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm apple crumb cake, creating a classic dessert experience.

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the richness of the cake with its natural sweetness.

• Chai tea: The warm spices in chai tea harmonize perfectly with the flavors of apple and cinnamon in your cake, making for a comforting beverage pairing.

With these serving suggestions, your Apple Crumb Cake will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any table! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Crumb Cake is perfect for meal prep and can easily be made in advance. Whether you’re planning for a special occasion or just want to enjoy a delightful treat throughout the week, this cake stores wonderfully!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week.
• Always allow the cake to cool completely before storing to maintain its texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its flavor and moisture.
• For best results, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• To reheat individual slices, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• For a whole cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm it for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Enjoy with a drizzle of maple glaze for that freshly-baked taste!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Apple Crumb Cake.

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

Absolutely! While red gala apples work beautifully, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Each type brings its unique flavor and sweetness.

What makes this Apple Crumb Cake so special?

This Apple Crumb Cake stands out due to its moist vanilla cinnamon base, filled with spiced apples and topped with a crunchy crumb layer. The addition of maple glaze takes it over the top, creating a comforting dessert that’s hard to resist.

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

To check if your cake is fully baked, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your cake is ready!

Final Thoughts

I hope you fall in love with this Apple Crumb Cake as much as I have! It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience that wraps you in warmth and comfort with every bite. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it solo, I truly believe this recipe will bring joy to your kitchen. Happy baking, and may each slice remind you of all the sweet moments life has to offer!