Apple Crumb Cake

This Apple Crumb Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the warmth of cinnamon-spiced apples with a moist, fluffy cake and a crunchy crumb topping. Perfect for gatherings, cozy nights in, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Its incredible flavors and comforting texture make it an irresistible treat that feels like home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and a rich crumb topping makes every bite unforgettable.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dessert at home, this cake fits perfectly into any setting.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you’ll find making this cake both enjoyable and simple.
• Versatile Treat: Serve it as a dessert or enjoy it as an indulgent breakfast with coffee; it suits any time of day.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful layers of apples and crumb topping create an eye-catching dessert that will wow your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable. Having the right equipment can enhance your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are crucial for combining ingredients evenly, ensuring your batter is well-blended for the best texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key in baking. They ensure your proportions are spot-on for perfect results.
• Rubber spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of bowls, this tool helps incorporate all ingredients fully.
• Cooling rack: Allows air circulation around the cake, preventing sogginess and ensuring it cools evenly.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Apple Crumb Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Apple Filling

• 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

How to Make Apple Crumb Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine diced apples with granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Toss until well coated. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

In another bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Add in room-temperature butter. Use your fingers or a fork to blend until crumbs form. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream together room-temperature butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Stir in sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until combined. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients while mixing gently until just combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Spread half of the cake batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Layer on the apple mixture evenly over the batter. Spoon remaining batter on top of the apples carefully. Finish by sprinkling crumb topping over everything.

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Place in preheated oven and bake for about 70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool on a wire rack before glazing.

Step 6: Make the Maple Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, sour cream, vanilla extract, and enough water to reach desired consistency. Drizzle over cooled cake before serving.

Now you’re ready to indulge in this heavenly Apple Crumb Cake! Enjoy every bite of its delightful flavors and textures!

How to Serve Apple Crumb Cake

Apple Crumb Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the moist cake. Simply dollop a spoonful on top for extra indulgence.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream melts gently over warm Apple Crumb Cake, creating a deliciously comforting treat that balances flavors perfectly.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the sweetness of the cake. It adds a rich, buttery flavor that pairs well with the cinnamon-spiced apples.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Serve slices of fresh fruit, like berries or slices of apple, alongside the cake to add a refreshing contrast and boost the presentation.

Coffee or Tea Pairing

• Enjoy your Apple Crumb Cake with a warm cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage complements the spices in the cake beautifully.

How to Perfect Apple Crumb Cake

Creating the perfect Apple Crumb Cake requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here are some suggestions to elevate your baking game.

• Choose the Right Apples: Use sweet and tart apples like Gala or Granny Smith. They hold their shape well during baking and provide great flavor.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, particularly eggs and sour cream, are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix your batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of a light and fluffy crumb.
• Watch Your Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cake while baking. Ovens can vary in temperature, so check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Crumb Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Crumb Cake can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Cinnamon-Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts sprinkled with cinnamon add an extra crunch and warmth that complements the flavors in the cake.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers freshness and balances the richness of the cake beautifully.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy side dish that contrasts nicely with the crumbly texture of the cake.
4. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda for a savory touch that pairs surprisingly well with sweet desserts.
5. Chai Tea: A cup of spiced chai tea enhances the cozy vibes and highlights the warm spices in your Apple Crumb Cake.
6. Warm Cider: A mug of warm apple cider provides an autumnal feel, perfect for complementing this delicious dessert during cooler months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your baking experience with Apple Crumb Cake. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold measurement errors: Always use precise measurements for ingredients. A small mistake can significantly alter the cake’s texture and flavor.
• Bold ignoring room temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs, butter, and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps in achieving a lighter, fluffier batter.
• Bold neglecting apple preparation: Don’t skip the step of dicing apples uniformly. Uneven sizes will result in inconsistent cooking and texture.
• Bold skipping the crumb topping: The crumb topping is essential for that signature crunch. Be sure to prepare it and sprinkle it generously over the cake mixture.
• Bold underbaking the cake: Make sure to bake until a toothpick comes out clean. Undercooking can lead to a soggy texture, ruining your delicious Apple Crumb Cake.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Apple Crumb Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Apple Crumb Cake

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Crumb Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the cake on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm it for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Apple Crumb Cake:

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes, you can use any variety of apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Each type will give a unique flavor profile.

How do I make gluten-free Apple Crumb Cake?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I add nuts to my Apple Crumb Cake?

Absolutely! Adding chopped walnuts or pecans can enhance the texture and flavor of your cake.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

You may use Greek yogurt or buttermilk as an alternative to sour cream in this recipe.

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

The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Crumb Cake is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. Its moist texture paired with the crunchy crumb topping makes it a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or using different apples according to your preference!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Apple Crumb Cake

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delight of our Apple Crumb Cake, a comforting dessert that captures the essence of fall with its warm cinnamon-spiced apples and buttery crumb topping. This moist cake is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting family gatherings or enjoying a cozy night in. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will leave your guests asking for more. Simple to prepare, this cake allows you to create a stunning dessert without complicated steps. Serve it warm with whipped cream or ice cream for an even more decadent treat.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 small or 3 large red gala apples, diced
• 1 1/2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 120 g all-purpose flour (for crumb topping)
• 200 g dark brown sugar (for crumb topping)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for crumb topping)
• 85 g butter (room temperature, for crumb topping)
• 340 g all-purpose flour (for cake batter)
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon (for cake batter)
• 2 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 125 g butter (room temperature, for cake batter)
• 225 g granulated sugar (for cake batter)
• 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
• 125 g powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 1 tbsp maple syrup (for glaze)
• 1 tsp sour cream (for glaze)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for glaze)
• 1–2 tsp water (for glaze)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix diced apples with granulated sugar and cinnamon; set aside.
2. In another bowl, combine flour, dark brown sugar, and cinnamon for the crumb topping. Mix in butter until crumbs form; set aside.
3. For the cake batter, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt in one bowl. In another bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until fluffy; add eggs one at a time.
4. Mix in sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until combined. Gradually add dry ingredients while mixing gently.
5. Spread half of the batter into a greased baking pan; layer with apples and remaining batter. Top with crumb mixture.
6. Bake for about 70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow cooling on a wire rack before glazing.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, sour cream, vanilla extract, and enough water to reach desired consistency. Drizzle over cooled cake before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 70 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 305
• Sugar: 19g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 61mg