Apple Crumb Cake

If you’re looking for the perfect dessert to share with family or friends, you’ve landed in the right place! This Apple Crumb Cake is not just any cake; it’s a delightful combination of moist vanilla cinnamon goodness, sweet cinnamon-sugar apples, and a crunchy crumb topping. Each bite feels like a warm hug, making it ideal for everything from busy weeknights to cozy family gatherings. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it has become such a cherished favorite in my home!

Baking this cake fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of spiced apples and vanilla. It’s truly a treat that everyone will love, and it’s simple enough that even beginner bakers can shine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip this up without stress.
• Family-Friendly Delight: Kids and adults alike will be reaching for seconds; it’s that good!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it in advance and enjoy it fresh out of the oven when you’re ready.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dessert or a special celebration, this cake fits right in.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of spices and sweetness makes every slice irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Apple Crumb Cake is part of the fun! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to create this delicious dessert.

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

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily switch up ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
• Try Different Fruits: Swap out apples for pears or peaches for a delightful twist.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this cake suitable for everyone.
• Spice It Up: Add some nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Apple Crumb Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

First things first, let’s get those apples ready! Dice your gala apples into small pieces and toss them with granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This step is important because it helps bring out their natural sweetness while adding warmth from the spices. Set them aside to let those flavors mingle while you prepare the rest of the cake.

Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Then add room temperature butter and mix until crumbly. This crumb topping is what gives our Apple Crumb Cake its signature texture—dreamy and crunchy at once—so don’t skip this step!

Step 3: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. 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. Then stir in sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients until just combined. Don’t overmix; we want our cake tender!

Step 4: Assemble Your Cake

Now comes the fun part! Pour half of your batter into a greased baking dish. Layer on your prepared apples evenly on top, followed by dollops of remaining batter. Finally, sprinkle your crumb topping generously over everything. This will bake into a gorgeous golden crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake your Apple Crumb Cake for about 70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it as it nears completion!

Step 6: Drizzle with Maple Glaze

While your cake cools slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, sour cream, vanilla extract, and water until smooth. Drizzle over warm cake for that extra touch of sweetness!

And there you have it—a delectable Apple Crumb Cake that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to have a slice! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crumb Cake

Making the perfect Apple Crumb Cake is easier than you think! Here are some tips to help you achieve a deliciously moist and flavorful cake that will impress everyone.

• Choose the right apples: Selecting sweeter apple varieties like Gala or Fuji ensures a balanced sweetness in your cake. These apples hold their shape well during baking and provide a delightful texture.

• Room temperature ingredients: Allowing eggs, butter, and sour cream to sit at room temperature helps them combine better, resulting in a smoother batter and an even rise. This simple step can make a world of difference!

• Don’t skimp on the crumb topping: The crumb topping is what makes this cake stand out! Aim for a generous layer of crumbs to add texture and flavor. Plus, it creates that charming rustic appeal we all adore.

• Let it cool properly: Once baked, allow your cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This ensures that it sets properly and helps maintain its moistness.

• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon is a classic choice, feel free to add nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of warmth and complexity in flavor. Just a pinch can elevate your cake to new heights!

How to Serve Apple Crumb Cake

Serving your Apple Crumb Cake can be just as delightful as baking it! Here are some fun ideas to ensure your dessert shines at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a luscious, dairy-free touch that pairs beautifully with the warm spices of the cake.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling toasted walnuts or pecans over the top gives an extra crunch and nutty flavor that complements the cake perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the warm cake, creating a comforting dessert experience.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the cake.
• Hot tea or coffee: Serving your Apple Crumb Cake with a cup of hot tea or freshly brewed coffee enhances the flavors and makes for an inviting afternoon treat.
• Caramel sauce drizzle: A drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce adds an indulgent touch that takes this dessert up a notch in sweetness and sophistication.

Enjoy every slice of this delectable Apple Crumb Cake with friends and family, making memories one bite at a time!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Crumb Cake is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep your cake fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature.
• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Ensure that the cake is completely cooled before freezing.
• Wrap individual slices or the entire cake in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil for extra protection.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for reference!

Reheating

• To enjoy a slice of your frozen Apple Crumb Cake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a warm treat, reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Alternatively, warm it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Apple Crumb Cake!

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

Yes! While red gala apples work beautifully, you can also use Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or any baking apple that you prefer. Just ensure they are firm and suitable for baking!

How can I make this Apple Crumb Cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of this recipe, simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What makes this Apple Crumb Cake so special?

The combination of moist vanilla cinnamon cake with cinnamon sugar apples and a crunchy crumb topping makes this cake truly comforting and delightful. The maple glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness that elevates it to dessert paradise!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Apple Crumb Cake as I am! It’s a delightful treat that brings warmth and joy to any gathering or quiet afternoon at home. Making it is not just about creating something delicious; it’s about sharing love through food. Enjoy baking this scrumptious cake, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me! Happy baking!