Apple Crumb Cake

This Apple Crumb Cake is an absolute delight! With its moist vanilla cinnamon base, spiced apple filling, and a crumbly topping, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, this dessert will surely impress. The warm spices create a cozy atmosphere, making it feel like a comforting hug in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and apples provides a warm and inviting taste that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can master this recipe without stress.
• Moist Texture: The addition of sour cream keeps the cake wonderfully moist, ensuring every slice is tender.
• Stunning Presentation: The crumb topping and maple glaze make this cake not only tasty but also visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Apple Crumb Cake, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference. Gather these essential items before you start baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a light and fluffy batter quickly and easily.
• Baking pan: A sturdy pan ensures even baking for that perfectly cooked cake.
• Cooling rack: Allows air circulation around your cake after baking, preventing sogginess.

Ingredients

This Apple Crumb Cake features a wonderful blend of ingredients that contribute to its delightful flavor and texture.

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 Batter

• 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 well to coat the apples evenly. Set aside while you prepare the crumb topping.

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 hands or a pastry cutter to create a crumbly texture. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. In another bowl, cream together room temperature butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Incorporate sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract into the mixture.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Gradually add dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the prepared apple filling until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour half of the batter into your greased baking pan. Spread half of the crumb topping over it. Add remaining batter on top followed by remaining crumb topping. Bake in preheated oven for about 70 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 6: Prepare Maple Glaze

While cooling on a wire rack, whisk together powdered sugar with maple syrup, sour cream, vanilla extract, and water until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cake before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Apple Crumb Cake!

How to Serve Apple Crumb Cake

Apple Crumb Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience with this delicious treat.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve the cake warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast against the spiced apples.

Drizzled with Maple Glaze

• Enhance the flavors by drizzling extra maple glaze on top of each slice for added sweetness and richness.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• A dollop of fresh whipped cream pairs wonderfully and adds a light, airy texture to the cake.

With a Side of Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside slices of fresh fruit like pears or berries to balance the sweetness of the cake.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy a slice with your favorite coffee or herbal tea for a cozy afternoon break or dessert time.

Perfect for Breakfast

• This cake can also be served as a delightful breakfast option, especially when lightly toasted and spread with butter.

How to Perfect Apple Crumb Cake

To ensure your Apple Crumb Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs, sour cream, and butter to reach room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter that rises well.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake tender. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Chill Your Apples: After dicing apples, let them chill in the refrigerator briefly. This helps retain their shape during baking.
• Adjust Baking Time: Ovens can vary; check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time by inserting a toothpick into the center.
• Let It Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool before slicing. This helps maintain its structure and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Crumb Cake

Pairing your Apple Crumb Cake with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A classic choice that adds creamy coldness to each warm slice of cake.
2. Caramel Sauce
   Drizzle over individual servings for an indulgent touch that enhances the apple flavor.
3. Chopped Nuts
   Toasted walnuts or pecans add crunch and depth, making each bite more exciting.
4. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides balance and contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cake.
5. Cheese Plate
   Pairing cheese like cheddar or brie creates an interesting sweet-savory combination that’s sure to please.
6. Spiced Tea
   A cup of hot spiced tea complements the cinnamon flavors in the cake beautifully.
7. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a light yet satisfying side dish alongside your dessert.
8. Chocolate Mousse
   For chocolate lovers, this rich dessert offers a decadent counterpoint to the fruity flavors of the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Crumb Cake, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Using cold ingredients – Make sure your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to a dense cake.
• Overmixing the batter – Mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a tough texture instead of a light and fluffy cake.
• Not measuring flour correctly – Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements. Too much flour can make your cake dry.
• Skipping the crumb topping – The crumb topping adds essential flavor and texture. Don’t forget to prepare it for the best taste!
• Baking without checking doneness – Use a toothpick to test for doneness before removing from the oven. This will help ensure your cake is perfectly baked.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Apple Crumb Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Apple Crumb Cake

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Apple Crumb Cake

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop – Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Crumb Cake.

Can I use different apples for Apple Crumb Cake?

Yes, you can use various types of apples. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples work well and provide different flavors and textures.

How do I know when my Apple Crumb Cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Can I customize my Apple Crumb Cake?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, raisins, or even swap out spices to suit your taste preferences.

What if I don’t have all-purpose flour?

You can substitute with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends while keeping an eye on texture adjustments.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Crumb Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. Its warm spices and tender crumb make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful slice today!