Introduction to Apple Crumb Cake
Why apple crumb cake is a must-try for homemade food lovers
If you’re a fan of homemade desserts, apple crumb cake needs to find its way into your recipe collection. This delightful treat features a tender cake base layered with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples and is topped with a generous helping of buttery crumbs. The combination creates a harmonious blend of textures—crispy on top and soft below—that is simply irresistible.
What makes this cake stand out is not just its comforting flavors but the nostalgia it evokes. Picture this: a cozy afternoon spent in your kitchen, the enticing aroma of apples and cinnamon wafting through the air as you bake. It’s a perfect treat for gatherings, weekend brunch, or even a quiet evening with a cup of tea or coffee.
Moreover, this recipe is approachable, making it suitable for bakers of all skill levels. Plus, with just a bit of preparation, you can freeze the cake for later enjoyment, ensuring that you always have a scrumptious dessert on hand. For tips and tricks on getting it just right, visit Sally’s Baking Addiction, where you’ll find detailed instructions and support to guide you through every step. Embrace the joy of baking—your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients for Apple Crumb Cake
Creating a delightful apple crumb cake starts with the right ingredients. Let’s break them down into two essential categories: the crumb topping and the cake itself.
Essential Ingredients for the Crumb Topping
For that perfect crumbly texture that adds a delicious contrast to the soft cake, gather these ingredients:
- Brown Sugar: 1 cup (200g), packed. It adds depth to the flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: ½ cup (100g) for just the right amount of sweetness.
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 tablespoon to infuse warmth and spice.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon to enhance the sweetness.
- Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (226g), melted, providing richness.
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 and ½ cups (313g), spooned and leveled for structure.
Key Ingredients for the Cake
Now, let’s whip up the cake! Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-Purpose Flour: Another 2 and ½ cups (313g), to keep it uniform with the topping.
- Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon for leavening.
- Baking Powder: ½ teaspoon to help achieve that fluffy texture.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon again, ensuring flavor balance.
- Unsalted Butter: ¾ cup (170g), softened for creaminess.
- Granulated Sugar: 1 and ¼ cups (250g) to sweeten the batter.
- Eggs: 3 large, at room temperature for proper mixing.
- Sour Cream: 1 cup (240g), full-fat for that moist crumb.
- Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons for aromatic flavor.
- Chopped Apples: 3 cups (375g), about 2-3 large apples, for the star of the show.
Together, these ingredients create a deliciously moist apple crumb cake that you’re sure to love. Want to know how to use them? Let’s get baking!
Step-by-step Preparation of Apple Crumb Cake
Preheat the oven and prepare the pan
To get started on your mouthwatering apple crumb cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). While it heats up, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and grease it with a bit of butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This small step ensures a perfect presentation when it’s time to serve!
Make the crumb topping
Next, let’s dive into creating that delicious crumb topping! In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of packed brown sugar, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Stir these ingredients together before adding in ½ teaspoon of salt and a cup (or 2 sticks) of melted unsalted butter. The star of this mixture is the flour; gradually fold in 2½ cups of all-purpose flour until small crumbles form. Remember, don’t over-mix! Transfer this mixture to the refrigerator or freezer while you move on to the next steps—cold crumbs hold their shape beautifully in the oven.
Prepare the cake batter
Now it’s time for the cake batter! Take another mixing bowl and whisk together 2½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Set this dry mixture aside. In a separate bowl, using a handheld or stand mixer, beat together ¾ cup of softened butter and 1¼ cups of granulated sugar until you achieve a light and creamy consistency. This should take about three minutes. Then, add 3 large room-temperature eggs, 1 cup of full-fat sour cream, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix until combined, then gradually incorporate the dry ingredients until just smooth.
Combine apples with cinnamon
To enhance the cake with that signature flavor, toss together 3 cups of peeled and chopped apples (try a mix of sweet and tart varieties for depth) with ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This step packs the cake with flavor and ensures each bite is bursting with delicious apple goodness.
Assemble the cake
Now comes the fun part—assembly! Spread the cake batter evenly in your prepared baking pan. Top it with the cinnamon-coated apples and finally, generously sprinkle the chilled crumb topping over everything. Gently press down on the crumb topping with a spatula to help it adhere to the cake batter.
Bake to perfection
Place your assembled apple crumb cake in the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as baking times can vary. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, don’t hesitate to cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Once baked, let it cool on a rack for at least 30-45 minutes before slicing. Your delicious treat is now ready to be enjoyed!
For more delightful cake recipes, consider looking at sources like King Arthur Baking or BBC Good Food.
Variations on Apple Crumb Cake
Addition of Nuts or Caramel
To elevate your apple crumb cake experience, consider adding a handful of nuts such as walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. You can also drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal. The combination of sweet, tender apples and rich caramel makes for a truly indulgent treat! If you’re adventurous, why not try a mixture of both nuts and caramel for a delightful contrast?
Gluten-Free Apple Crumb Cake Option
Don’t miss out if you're following a gluten-free diet! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. This will allow you to enjoy the same moist texture and rich flavors without compromising your dietary needs. With options like almond flour or coconut flour, you can get creative while making your cake. You can find great gluten-free flour blends online or in stores for easy baking!
Baking Tips and Notes for Apple Crumb Cake
How to Ensure a Moist Cake
To keep your apple crumb cake delightfully moist, make sure to incorporate full-fat sour cream into the batter. It's a game changer! Also, avoid overmixing—blend the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. And don't skimp on the apples; they add moisture and flavor. For an extra touch, consider using a mix of sweet and tart apples for depth.
What to Do If the Cake Browns Too Quickly
If you notice your cake browning too quickly, don't panic! Simply cover it loosely with aluminum foil. This technique allows it to bake through without burning the top. Baking is all about adjusting to what you see, so keep an eye on it! For more baking tips, check out Sally's Baking Addiction for expert advice.
Serving Suggestions for Apple Crumb Cake
Pairing with Ice Cream or Whipped Cream
One of the best ways to elevate your apple crumb cake experience is by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast of warm cake against the cool, creamy topping is simply delightful. Consider drizzling some caramel sauce over the top for a touch of decadence. For a different twist, cinnamon ice cream would complement the cake's flavors beautifully.
Ideal Occasions for Serving
This apple crumb cake is perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a cozy fall gathering, celebrating a birthday, or simply enjoying a weekend treat, it fits the bill. It’s also great for brunch alongside your favorite coffee or tea. Slice it up and serve it at holiday parties, or bring it to a potluck—your friends and family will love it! For tips on creating the perfect dessert table, check out this guide from Bon Appétit.
Time Breakdown for Apple Crumb Cake
Preparation Time
The preparation for this delightful apple crumb cake takes about 25 minutes. This is when you'll be mixing your ingredients and preppin’ the apples that will bring the cake to life!
Baking Time
Once your cake is assembled, it will need to bake for 50 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as baking times can vary based on your oven. You'll want the top to be golden and a toothpick inserted into the center to come out clean.
Total Time
In total, plan for about 2 hours for your apple crumb cake experience, which includes cooling time after baking. This time spent will yield a warm, cozy dessert that’s perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself)! For more tips on baking and timing, check out this guide.
Nutritional Facts for Apple Crumb Cake
Calories per serving
Each serving of this delightful apple crumb cake contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying treat without overindulging. It’s perfect for a cozy dessert or a sweet morning pick-me-up!
Key nutrients
Along with its comforting flavor, this cake provides essential nutrients, including:
- Fiber: Thanks to the apples, supporting digestive health.
- Vitamin C: Found in apples, boosting immunity.
- Calcium: Provided by the sour cream, essential for bone health.
For a deeper dive into the nutritional benefits of apples, check out this article on Healthline. Enjoy your baking!
FAQs about Apple Crumb Cake
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Absolutely! Apple crumb cake is versatile. For instance, if you don’t have sour cream, plain full-fat yogurt can be an excellent alternative. You can also mix different apples to create a unique flavor—using both sweet and tart varieties like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith can enhance your cake’s taste!
How should I store leftover apple crumb cake?
After you've enjoyed this delicious treat, store any leftovers tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just remember to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. For proper freezing tips, check out this helpful guide on freezing baked goods.
What’s the best way to serve apple crumb cake?
Serving your apple crumb cake warm enhances its delightful flavors! Consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra decadent touch. You could even serve it with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. Enjoy every crumb!
Conclusion on Apple Crumb Cake
Baking your own apple crumb cake is a rewarding experience that brings warmth to your home and joy to your palate. I encourage you to explore the world of baking and savor the delight of homemade treats. Each slice is a chance to create sweet memories with loved ones, so enjoy every bite!
Apple Crumb Cake
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Silicone spatula
- Cooling Rack
Ingredients
Crumb Topping
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter melted
- 2.5 cups all purpose flour spooned & leveled
Cake
- 2.5 cups all purpose flour spooned & leveled
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.75 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- 1.25 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs at room temperature
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups peeled chopped apples about 2-3 large apples
- 0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Making the Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease a glass or metal 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper. Set aside.
- Make the crumb topping: Mix the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt together in a medium bowl. Stir in the melted butter. Using a fork, lightly mix in the flour until crumbles form. Place in the refrigerator or freezer until needed.
- Make the cake: Whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a mixer, beat the butter and granulated sugar on high speed until light and creamy, about 3 minutes. Add the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla and beat until combined. Mix in dry ingredients until smooth.
- Toss the chopped apples and cinnamon together.
- Spread the batter evenly into the baking pan. Top with cinnamon-coated apples and then the crumb topping. Press the crumb topping down into the cake.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let cool for at least 30-45 minutes before slicing.
- Drizzle with optional icing, if desired.
- Cover leftovers tightly and store in the refrigerator for 5 days.
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