The first hint of autumn always stirs something magical in me. As the leaves transition into a vibrant palette of reds and golds, I find myself gravitating toward comforting, warm flavors—especially the cozy scent of cinnamon that wraps around my kitchen like a soft blanket. This is exactly how my Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake came into being.
One rainy afternoon, I was craving a treat that would both lift my spirits and fill my home with inviting aromas. With a few simple ingredients, I whipped up this delightful cake, featuring tender chunks of apple tucked within a fluffy base, all crowned with a sweet and crunchy crumb. Whether enjoyed alongside a steaming cup of coffee for breakfast or nestled on a dessert platter at fall gatherings, this cake is the embodiment of comfort food.
Join me in baking this seasonal delight, perfect for anyone looking to escape the mundane grab-and-go snacks of fast food and embrace the warmth of homemade flavors!
Why is Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake So Special?
Delightful aroma: Filling your kitchen with the rich scent of cinnamon and apples creates an inviting atmosphere that screams comfort.
Moist texture: This cake is incredibly fluffy, with tender apple chunks that blend perfectly into each slice.
Sweet crunch: The crumb topping adds just the right amount of sweet contrast, making each bite memorable.
Versatile treat: Enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or a dessert—this cake fits every occasion!
Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers will find success with this recipe.
Bake this delightful treat and experience the joy of homemade flavors, bringing warmth to your fall gatherings.
Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• Flour (1 ½ cups) – Provides structure to the cake; you can swap for whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
• Brown Sugar (½ cup) – Adds a rich sweetness and moisture; choose between light or dark based on your preference.
• Granulated Sugar (¼ cup) – Sweetens the cake base for enhanced flavor; consider coconut sugar for a lower glycemic choice.
• Salt (½ teaspoon + ¼ teaspoon) – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor without needing substitutes.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon) – The main spice contributing warmth; a touch of nutmeg (¼ teaspoon) can elevate the flavor further.
• Butter (½ cup melted + 4 tablespoons) – Adds richness and moisture; coconut oil is a great substitute for a dairy-free version.
• Vanilla Extract (½ teaspoon + 1 teaspoon) – Enhances all other flavors in the cake.
• Apples (2 medium, peeled and chopped) – Provide moisture and texture, delivering bursts of flavor; go for Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.
• Egg (1 large) – Binds ingredients together for structure; a flax egg works as a vegan alternative.
• Sour Cream (½ cup) – Contributes to the cake's moisture and richness; Greek yogurt makes for a suitable substitute.
• Baking Soda (¼ teaspoon) – A leavening agent for rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Baking Powder (½ teaspoon) – Complements the baking soda for that perfect lift.
For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar (½ cup) – Used for the glaze to add sweetness; consider a sugar-free alternative if preferred.
• Apple Cider (2 tablespoons) – Provides flavor and moisture to the glaze; lemon juice can give a tangy twist instead.
Embrace the essence of comfort food with this Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake—it’s a cozy celebration of fall flavors that will leave you longing for another slice!
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch springform pan. Ensure the pan is well-coated to prevent sticking.
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Prepare the crumb topping: In a bowl, combine 1 ½ cups flour, ½ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg. Pour in the melted butter and vanilla, mixing until the mixture is evenly moistened and crumbly.
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Make the cake batter: In a separate bowl, cream together 4 tablespoons of butter with ½ cup granulated sugar until fluffy. Add in the egg, vanilla, and sour cream, mixing well. In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup flour, ¼ teaspoon baking soda, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon baking powder; then gently fold this dry mixture into the butter mixture until just combined.
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Layer the cake: Spread half of the cake batter into the prepared pan. Next, sprinkle chopped apples evenly over the batter, followed by 1 cup of the crumb topping. Finish with the remaining cake batter and top with the rest of the crumb mixture.
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Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the edges—they should be golden brown.
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Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, mix the ½ cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons apple cider, stirring until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more cider if needed.
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Drizzle the warm glaze over the cooled cake once it has finished baking, then slice it up and serve!
Optional: Serve with vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delicious cake and add your own twist to each bite!
- Nutty Delight: Fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a satisfying crunch.
- Dairy-Free Dream: Replace butter and sour cream with coconut oil and dairy-free yogurt for a creamy, non-dairy version.
- Fruity Fusion: Swap out apples for ripe pears or mixed berries for a delightful burst of flavor and color.
- Extra Spice: Add ½ teaspoon cardamom or ginger to the batter for an exciting spice twist that elevates the flavor.
- Glazed Twist: Instead of apple cider, try using orange juice in the glaze for a zesty, bright finish.
- Chocolate Chunk: Mix in ½ cup chocolate chips for a luscious melty surprise amid the apple and crumb.
- Pumpkin Spice: Replace half the apples with canned pumpkin and add 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice for a fall classic.
- Sweet Heat: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper in the crumb topping for a surprising kick that complements the sweetness.
These variations allow you to make each bake uniquely yours—so dive in and experiment!
How to Store and Freeze Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake
- Room Temperature: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days; enjoy it fresh out of the container for that delightful taste!
- Fridge: If you'd like to keep it longer, refrigerate your Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake for up to a week in an airtight container to maintain moisture and flavor.
- Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, keeping it fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Reheating: For a warm treat, reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, enhancing those cozy aromas.
Expert Tips for Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake
- Evenly Distribute Apples: Ensure the chopped apples are spread evenly throughout the batter to avoid any soggy spots.
- Watch Baking Time: Baking times can vary; check your cake around the 40-minute mark to avoid over-baking, as it may dry out.
- Cool Before Glazing: Allow the cake to cool slightly before drizzling the glaze on top. This prevents the glaze from melting into the cake too quickly.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your baking soda and baking powder are fresh for the best rise in your Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake.
- Try Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! For a twist, you can add spices like nutmeg or even mix in nuts for a delightful crunch.
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cake batter and crumb topping up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the batter and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator—this will not only save you time but also allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you can pre-measure and mix the dry ingredients for the crumb topping and store them in a separate container. When you’re ready to bake, just combine the components, layer with the chopped apples, and bake as directed. This makes it effortlessly convenient to enjoy a warm, homemade treat any time without compromising quality!
What to Serve with Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake?
Looking to create the perfect meal to accompany this delightful fall-inspired cake? Let’s explore some delicious pairings.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the warm, spiced cake, creating a decadent dessert experience.
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Hot Apple Cider: The sweet and spicy notes of warm apple cider enhance the flavors of the cake, making it an ideal drink choice for fall gatherings.
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Coffee or Tea: A steaming cup of coffee or a spiced chai tea perfectly complements the cake’s comforting flavors, ideal for breakfast or afternoon indulgence.
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Greek Yogurt with Honey: The tangy yogurt drizzled with honey provides a refreshing balance, brightening up each bite of the moist cake.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over each slice offers an extra layer of sweetness that elevates the cake to an indulgent treat.
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Chopped Nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans can be sprinkled on top for added texture and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall experience.
Each of these pairings not only elevates the delicious Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake but also creates a warm, inviting atmosphere for your fall gatherings. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors!
Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of apples are best for the Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples. These varieties provide a lovely tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake, and they hold their shape well during baking, ensuring you get delicious, chunky bites in every slice.
How should I store leftover Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake?
You can keep your leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer it to last longer, refrigerate it, where it will stay fresh for up to a week. Just make sure to seal it well; this helps retain its moisture and flavor!
Can I freeze Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake?
Yes, you can! To freeze the cake, first, allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This double layer will keep it fresh for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, just thaw it overnight in the fridge, and when you're ready to serve, warm up slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes.
What if my cake is dry or dense?
Very! A dry or dense Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake could be due to several reasons. First, ensure you are measuring your flour correctly—over-measuring can lead to dryness. Make sure it’s spooned and leveled rather than scooped directly from the bag. It's also crucial to check your baking powder and baking soda for freshness, as expired leavening agents can greatly affect the rise and moisture of your cake. Lastly, follow the baking time closely; overbaking can dry it out. If the cake turns out too dense, try using less flour next time or ensure you’re incorporating air into your batter during the creaming stage.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Of course! If you're concerned about allergens, this recipe can be easily adapted. For a gluten-free option, swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. To make it dairy-free, use coconut oil instead of butter and opt for almond or soy yogurt in place of sour cream. For vegans, a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, left to sit for 5 minutes) can replace the regular egg.
Irresistibly Moist Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake for Fall Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch springform pan.
- In a bowl, combine 1 ½ cups flour, ½ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg. Pour in the melted butter and vanilla, mixing until the mixture is evenly moistened and crumbly.
- In a separate bowl, cream together 4 tablespoons of butter with ½ cup granulated sugar until fluffy. Add in the egg, vanilla, and sour cream, mixing well.
- In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup flour, ¼ teaspoon baking soda, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon baking powder; then gently fold this dry mixture into the butter mixture until just combined.
- Spread half of the cake batter into the prepared pan. Next, sprinkle chopped apples evenly over the batter, followed by 1 cup of the crumb topping. Finish with the remaining cake batter and top with the rest of the crumb mixture.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- In a small bowl, mix the ½ cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons apple cider, stirring until smooth.
- Drizzle the warm glaze over the cooled cake.
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