Apple Crumb Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like home, you’ve come to the right place! This Apple Crumb Cake is my go-to recipe for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or just a busy weeknight when you need a little something sweet. The combination of moist vanilla cake, spiced apples, and a heavenly crumb topping makes every bite feel like a warm hug. Trust me, once you take your first slice, you’ll understand why this cake holds such a special spot in my heart.

What I love most about this Apple Crumb Cake is how it brings everyone together. It’s perfect for sharing with friends over coffee or for celebrating birthdays and holidays. So let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward with simple steps that anyone can follow. You don’t need to be a baking expert to impress your friends and family!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour this delicious cake. The flavors of apple and cinnamon are always a hit!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a festive gathering, this cake fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy it later! This Apple Crumb Cake stays moist and flavorful for days.
• Deliciously Comforting: With its warm spices and sweet aroma, this cake is pure comfort food that will brighten any day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this scrumptious Apple Crumb Cake, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we 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 is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Use Different Fruits: Swap out apples for pears or peaches if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.
• Spice It Up: Add some nutmeg or ginger for an additional layer of flavor.

How to Make Apple Crumb Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by dicing your apples into small pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine them with granulated sugar and cinnamon. This step helps release their natural sweetness while infusing them with warm spice flavor. Set this mixture aside to let the apples soak up those delicious flavors.

Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

In another bowl, mix together flour, dark brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the room-temperature butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. This crumb topping adds texture and sweetness to our cake. Once mixed, set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. It’s important to combine these dry ingredients well so that our cake rises evenly during baking.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This incorporates air into the batter which results in a light cake texture. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Stir in sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined. These ingredients add moisture and richness to our cake.

Step 6: Mix Everything Together

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture until just combined; do not overmix! Gently fold in the apple mixture so that every piece of apple gets coated in that lovely batter.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

Pour half of the batter into a greased baking pan. Sprinkle half of the crumb topping over it before adding the remaining batter on top followed by the rest of the crumb topping.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 70 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 9: Prepare the Maple Glaze

While your cake cools down slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, sour cream, vanilla extract, and enough water to achieve your desired consistency for drizzling.

Step 10: Serve

Once cooled slightly but still warm, drizzle on that luscious maple glaze before slicing into generous pieces. Enjoy every delicious bite of this comforting Apple Crumb Cake!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crumb Cake

Baking this Apple Crumb Cake is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve the perfect result!

• Choose the right apples: Opt for sweet and tart varieties like Gala or Granny Smith to create a balanced flavor in your cake. Their natural sweetness enhances the overall taste and provides a lovely texture when baked.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature helps them blend better into the batter, resulting in a more uniform and moist cake.
• Don’t skip the cinnamon sugar mixture: Tossing the diced apples with granulated sugar and cinnamon not only adds flavor but also helps to create a delightful caramelization when baked, making each bite a burst of deliciousness.
• Let it cool before serving: Allowing the cake to cool for about 15-20 minutes after baking helps set the crumb structure, preventing it from falling apart when you slice it. Plus, it makes it easier to handle!
• Drizzle with glaze just before serving: Adding the maple glaze right before serving keeps it fresh and visually appealing. It gives a beautiful shine and extra sweetness that compliments the cake perfectly.

How to Serve Apple Crumb Cake

This Apple Crumb Cake shines both in presentation and taste! You can serve it as a cozy dessert or even as an indulgent breakfast treat. Here are some ideas on how to present this delicious cake.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint add vibrant color and a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
• Whipped coconut cream: A light dollop of whipped coconut cream not only enhances the flavor but also provides a dairy-free alternative that pairs wonderfully with apple desserts.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast with the warm cake, enriching each bite.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over each slice adds an extra layer of sweetness and elevates your dessert experience.
• Coffee or chai tea: A warm cup of coffee or spiced chai tea complements the warm spices in the cake, making for a comforting pairing that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
• Fruit salad: A fresh fruit salad brings a refreshing element that balances out the richness of the cake, making it an ideal accompaniment for brunch gatherings.

Enjoy your baking adventure with this Apple Crumb Cake, and don’t forget to share your results!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Crumb Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness throughout the week or share it with friends and family. Here’s how to make the most of your cake!

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cake 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.
• Be sure to place parchment paper between layers if stacking to avoid sticking.

Freezing

• Allow the cake to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; label the bag with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• For individual slices, microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• If reheating the whole cake, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful Apple Crumb Cake.

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

Absolutely! While red gala apples are great, feel free to experiment with Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for different flavors and textures.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Apple Crumb Cake?

You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans to the crumb topping. Also, consider including some dried cranberries or raisins along with the apples for added sweetness and texture.

What makes this Apple Crumb Cake so moist?

The combination of sour cream and vegetable oil in the batter contributes significantly to its moist texture, making every bite delightful!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this warm, comforting Apple Crumb Cake! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a sweet hug on a plate that brings smiles all around. Enjoy every slice, whether it’s shared with loved ones or savored during a quiet moment. Happy baking!