Apple Crumb Cake

Delight in Every Bite: Apple Crumb Cake Recipe

There’s something truly comforting about a freshly baked apple crumb cake. The aroma of warm apples and cinnamon wafting through your home can turn any ordinary day into a cozy celebration. This recipe is perfect for all occasions—whether you’re hosting a family brunch, seeking a delightful dessert for a weekday dinner, or simply indulging yourself on a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea. What makes this cake particularly special is its buttery crumb topping that adds a delightful crunch to the moist apple-laden cake.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Why should this apple crumb cake find a cherished spot in your recipe repertoire? For starters, it’s an excellent way to use seasonal apples, turning their sweet-tart goodness into a dish that warms the heart. It’s quick to prepare and can be made with everyday pantry staples, making it a budget-friendly choice for dessert lovers. Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced chef, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and incredibly rewarding.

"This apple crumb cake is now my go-to dessert! It’s easy to make and has just the right balance of apple goodness and crumbly topping. A hit with my family every time!" – satisfied home baker.

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making apple crumb cake is a breeze! You will begin with preparing your batter, then focus on the crumb topping, and finish by combining them beautifully in your cake pan. Let’s walk through it step by step to ensure clarity and enjoyment at every stage.

Gather Your Ingredients

Everything You Need for This Recipe

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (a mix of tart and sweet varieties works best!)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for topping)
• 1/4 cup butter, melted (for topping)

Feel free to substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option or replace some of the sugar with maple syrup for a unique flavor twist!

Step-by-Step Directions

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch cake pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until combined.
5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Gently fold in the chopped apples and a teaspoon of cinnamon.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
8. For the crumb topping, combine 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of oats, 1/4 cup of flour, 1/4 cup of melted butter, and a pinch of cinnamon in a bowl. Mix until crumbly.
9. Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the batter.
10. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Allow to cool before serving, then enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures!

Best Way to Serve

Serving Ideas

This apple crumb cake is versatile in its presentation! It shines on its own but can be complemented beautifully with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence. Consider pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an added touch. For a breakfast twist, enjoy it with a cup of morning coffee or tea.

Storage Tips

Keeping Apple Crumb Cake Fresh Longer

To ensure your cake stays delicious, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, slice the cake and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag; it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Remember to let it cool completely before storing and always reheat leftovers in the oven to restore its lusciousness!

Pro chef tips

Helpful Hints

1. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming with sugar, leading to a fluffier texture.
2. Scale back on the sugar slightly if using particularly sweet apples, like Fuji or Gala, for a more balanced flavor.
3. Don’t skip the crumble topping; it adds a crucial texture contrast that makes each bite delightful!

Flavor Variations

Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch. A handful of dried cranberries or raisins mingled with the apples brings a delightful tartness and chewiness. If you want a hint of citrus, a bit of lemon zest can brighten the overall flavor profile. You can also experiment with spice—try nutmeg or cardamom for an exotic twist!

Your Questions Answered

Common Questions

How long does it take to bake?
Baking generally takes about 45-50 minutes.

Can I use different fruits?
Absolutely! Pears or peaches can be used for delightful variations. Just ensure they are appropriately firm when baked.

Is it okay to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter in advance and bake it fresh, or bake it the day before and store it to serve the next day—flavors deepen overnight!

By following these steps and tips, your apple crumb cake will surely become a cherished recipe, perfect for any occasion! Happy baking!

Apple Crumb Cake

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• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A comforting and delicious apple crumb cake with a buttery topping, perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 cups peeled and chopped apples
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for topping)
• 1/4 cup butter, melted (for topping)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch cake pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until combined.
5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Gently fold in the chopped apples and a teaspoon of cinnamon.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
8. For the crumb topping, combine 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of oats, 1/4 cup of flour, and 1/4 cup of melted butter in a bowl. Mix until crumbly.
9. Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the batter.
10. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Allow to cool before serving and enjoy!

Notes

Serve with caramel sauce or vanilla ice cream. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: apple cake, crumb cake, dessert, baking, easy recipe