Apple Crumb Cake

by
Slice of homemade Apple Crumb Cake with a crumbly topping and fresh apples

Apple Crumb Cake is a delightful treat that brings together the warmth of baked apples with the comforting texture of a crumbly topping. Imagine biting into a moist cake, rich with the flavors of cinnamon and sweet apples, all topped off with a buttery oat crumble. It’s the perfect dessert for gatherings, brunches, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe will guide you to create a deliciously comforting dish that everyone will love.

What Goes into This Apple Crumb Cake

To make this scrumptious cake, gather the following ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (240g)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (113g)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk (240ml)
  • 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (100g)
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats (50g)
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted (57g)

Step-by-Step Apple Crumb Cake Recipe

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.

  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set this bowl aside.

  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.

  4. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air into the batter.

  5. Mix in Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract for that extra flavor.

  6. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

  7. Fold in Apples: Gently fold in the chopped apples, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

  8. Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.

  9. Make the Crumb Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar, oats, melted butter, and a pinch of cinnamon until crumbly. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the batter.

  10. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  11. Cool & Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before serving. This helps the flavors to meld together beautifully.

The Best Way to Serve It

Apple Crumb Cake is wonderful on its own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate this dish! Serve warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. You can also dust the top with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish. Pair it with a hot cup of tea or coffee to take your dessert experience to another level. This cake also tastes delightful the next day, so feel free to make it in advance for gatherings.

Expert Tips for Apple Crumb Cake

  • Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor, opt for sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp. They hold up well during baking.

  • Customize the Topping: Try adding nuts like pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping for added crunch and flavor.

  • Incorporate Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the batter for an extra aromatic touch.

Apple Crumb Cake: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of fruit?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with pears or even berries. Just adjust the variety according to your preference.

How do I store leftover Apple Crumb Cake?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them to extend freshness.

Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the Apple Crumb Cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will last for about 2-3 months.

There’s something so comforting about homemade sweets, and this Apple Crumb Cake is a perfect example. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share it with your family and friends. Enjoy the delicious flavors that come together in every bite!