Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake

Introduction

Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake is a beloved classic that brings together the cozy flavors of fall in one irresistible dessert. With its tender, moist cake layer, sweet and spiced apple filling, and a generous topping of buttery cinnamon crumb streusel, this cake is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a comforting treat with your afternoon tea. Whether you’re baking for family or friends, this recipe promises to fill your kitchen with warm, inviting aromas and your taste buds with pure delight.

The History

Crumb cakes trace their roots back to European baking traditions, particularly from German and Jewish communities where “streusel” — the crumbly topping made from flour, sugar, and butter — has long been a staple on coffee cakes and pastries. Over time, American bakers adapted these recipes, incorporating local ingredients like apples, which were abundant and flavorful in the autumn months. Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake became especially popular in the Northeast United States, where apple orchards are plentiful and cinnamon adds a warming touch to seasonal dishes.

Ingredients Breakdown

All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for both the cake and the crumb topping.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Leavening agents that help the cake rise and stay light.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cake and creates the flaky texture in the streusel.
Brown Sugar: Contributes depth of flavor and caramel notes to both the cake and topping.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake and balances the tartness of the apples.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure.
Milk: Keeps the batter moist and helps achieve the right consistency.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
Cinnamon: A key spice that complements the apples beautifully.
Apples: Tart-sweet varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best, offering contrast and texture.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch or 8×8-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups flour, 1 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, and ¼ tsp salt.
In another bowl, cream ½ cup softened butter with ¾ cup brown sugar and ¼ cup granulated sugar until fluffy.
Add 2 eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in ½ cup milk and 1 tsp vanilla extract until fully combined.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just incorporated.
Fold in 1 ½ cups peeled and chopped apples into the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
For the streusel: combine ½ cup flour, ½ cup brown sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, and ¼ cup melted butter until a crumbly texture forms.
Evenly sprinkle the streusel over the cake batter.
Bake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Tips

To ensure even rising, avoid overmixing the batter once the dry ingredients are added.
Use room temperature eggs and milk to prevent the batter from curdling when mixed with butter.
For extra flavor, toss the chopped apples with a splash of lemon juice and a pinch of cinnamon before folding into the batter.
If using a larger pan like 9×13 inches, double the ingredients and adjust the baking time accordingly.
Letting the cake cool completely before slicing will give cleaner cuts.

Variations and Customizations

Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the streusel for extra crunch.
Glazed Option: Drizzle a simple glaze of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla over the cooled cake.
Dried Fruit: Mix in raisins or dried cranberries with the apples for more texture.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cake batter for deeper warmth.
Mini Versions: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings — reduce baking time to 20–25 minutes.
Vegan Option: Substitute egg with flax eggs, use non-dairy milk and vegan butter.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

While Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake is undeniably indulgent, it does offer some nutritional benefits, particularly from the apples, which provide fiber and vitamin C. However, due to the high amounts of sugar and butter, it’s best enjoyed in moderation. For a healthier version, consider substituting whole wheat flour for all-purpose, reducing the sugar by 25%, and using unsweetened applesauce in place of some of the butter. These changes can significantly cut calories and fat while maintaining great flavor and texture.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup packed brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 ½ cups peeled and chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
1 tsp ground cinnamon

For the Streusel Topping:

½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup packed brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Optional: ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch or 8×8-inch baking pan.
In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in milk and vanilla extract until combined.
Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just blended.
Fold in chopped apples and cinnamon.
Transfer batter to the prepared pan and spread evenly.
In a small bowl, mix streusel ingredients until clumps form.
Scatter streusel over the top of the cake batter.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool slightly before slicing into squares.

FAQ

Can I make this ahead?

Yes! The cake can be baked and stored at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for up to five days. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I freeze Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake?

Absolutely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven for best results.