This Apple Crumb Cake is truly a delight! With its moist vanilla cinnamon base, sweet cinnamon sugar apples, and a decadent crumb topping drizzled with maple glaze, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, this cake is sure to impress. The blend of warm spices creates an inviting aroma that will make your kitchen feel like a comforting haven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Flavorful – The combination of apples and cinnamon creates a deliciously warm flavor profile that everyone will adore.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a weekend treat, this cake fits right in.
- Easy to Make – With simple steps and common ingredients, even beginner bakers can whip this up effortlessly.
- Moist and Delicious – The addition of sour cream ensures that every slice is exceptionally moist and tender.
- Versatile Dessert – Serve it on its own or pair it with ice cream or whipped cream for an extra special treat!
Tools and Preparation
To prepare your Apple Crumb Cake, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline the process. Having the right tools makes baking not only easier but also more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- 9×13 inch baking pan
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls – A variety of sizes allows for mixing different components easily without mess.
- Rubber spatula – Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls and ensuring all ingredients are combined well.
- 9×13 inch baking pan – This size is ideal for baking the Apple Crumb Cake evenly and achieving that perfect crust.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling
- 4 small or 3 large red gala apple (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 Base
- 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
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine diced apples with granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Toss until the apples are evenly 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 room-temperature butter and use your fingers or a fork to create a crumbly texture. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. In another bowl, beat room-temperature butter with granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; do not overmix. Fold in the prepared apple filling gently.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
Pour half of the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Sprinkle half of the crumb topping over it. Pour in the remaining batter followed by the rest of the crumb topping.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for about 70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely before glazing.
Step 7: Prepare Maple Glaze
In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar with maple syrup, sour cream, vanilla extract, and water until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cake before serving.
Enjoy your delightful slice of Apple Crumb Cake!
How to Serve Apple Crumb Cake
Apple Crumb Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy evening at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.
With Fresh Whipped Cream
- This light and fluffy topping adds a creamy contrast to the warm cake, making each bite even more indulgent.
A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream
- The cold ice cream melts slightly when placed on the warm cake, creating a delicious mix of flavors and textures.
Drizzled with Maple Syrup
- A simple drizzle of maple syrup enhances the cake’s sweetness and complements the cinnamon flavors beautifully.
Accompanied by Hot Coffee or Tea
- Pairing this dessert with a hot beverage elevates the cozy feel, perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert after dinner.
Topped with Chopped Nuts
- Adding chopped walnuts or pecans gives a satisfying crunch and additional flavor that pairs well with the apples.
How to Perfect Apple Crumb Cake
For those looking to elevate their baking skills, here are some essential tips for perfecting your Apple Crumb Cake.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy; overmixing can result in a dense texture.
- Adjust Sugar Levels: Depending on your apple variety, you may want to adjust the sugar levels for optimal sweetness.
- Let it Cool Before Serving: Allowing the cake to cool for at least 15 minutes helps it set properly and makes slicing easier.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for added warmth and complexity in flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Crumb Cake
Apple Crumb Cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its sweet and spiced notes. Here are some excellent options:
- Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Nuts: These nuts provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft cake.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and balances the richness of the cake.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fresh fruits works as a delightful side that feels healthy yet indulgent.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy brie can offer savory notes that balance out the sweetness.
- Chai Spiced Hot Chocolate: This warm drink brings comforting spices that harmonize beautifully with apple flavors.
- Caramel Sauce Dipped Apples: Fresh apple slices dipped in caramel sauce create an interactive dessert experience that echoes the cake’s ingredients.
- Gingerbread Cookies: The spiced nature of gingerbread cookies complements the warm flavors of cinnamon in your crumb cake.
- Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche adds a savory element that pairs well with sweet desserts, making for a balanced meal option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Apple Crumb Cake, there are some common pitfalls to steer clear of. Here are key mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Using cold ingredients – Always ensure that your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to a dense cake.
- Overmixing the batter – Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can create a tough texture in your Apple Crumb Cake.
- Not peeling the apples – Leaving the skin on can make the cake chewy. For a tender bite, peel your apples before dicing them.
- Skipping the cinnamon sugar – This adds a delicious flavor to the apple layer. Don’t forget to coat those diced apples with cinnamon and sugar!
- Neglecting the crumb topping – A crumbly topping adds texture and flavor. Make sure it’s well mixed for that perfect crunchy finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover Apple Crumb Cake in an airtight container.
- It can last for about 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Apple Crumb Cake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container; it will keep for up to 3 months.
Reheating Apple Crumb Cake
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, covered with a lid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Apple Crumb Cake:
Can I use other types of apples for Apple Crumb Cake?
Yes! You can use any sweet or tart apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Each will bring its unique flavor.
How do I know when my Apple Crumb Cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake it one day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What are some variations for this Apple Crumb Cake?
Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even dried fruits such as cranberries for extra flavor.
How should I serve my Apple Crumb Cake?
Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with extra maple syrup for added sweetness!
Final Thoughts
The Apple Crumb Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. This recipe offers warmth and comfort with its rich flavors and spices. Feel free to customize it with different fruits or toppings to suit your taste. Give it a try, and enjoy every bite!
Apple Crumb Cake
Indulge in the delightful warmth of our Apple Crumb Cake, a perfect blend of sweet cinnamon-spiced apples nestled within a moist vanilla cake, topped with a crunchy crumb layer and drizzled with a rich maple glaze. This comforting dessert is ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy night in. The inviting aroma of baked apples and cinnamon will fill your kitchen, creating an atmosphere of warmth and nostalgia. With straightforward steps and common ingredients, even beginner bakers can create this impressive treat that promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or fresh whipped cream for an extra special touch. Enjoy every bite of this homemade goodness!
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 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
- 200 g dark brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 85 g butter (room temperature)
- 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 (room temperature)
- 40 g vegetable oil (e.g., canola oil)
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 125 g powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp sour cream
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tsp water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix diced apples with granulated sugar and cinnamon; set aside.
- For the crumb topping, combine flour, dark brown sugar, and cinnamon in another bowl. Mix in butter until crumbly; set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, beat butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition. Stir in sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture; mix until just combined. Fold in the apple mixture gently.
- In a greased 9×13 inch pan, layer half of the batter, sprinkle half of the crumb topping, add remaining batter, then finish with the rest of the crumb topping.
- Bake for about 70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely before glazing.
- For the glaze, mix powdered sugar with maple syrup and sour cream; drizzle over cooled cake.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy. Experiment with different apple varieties for varied flavors.