Introduction to Apple Crumb Cake
Why Apple Crumb Cake is a Perfect Homemade Dessert
When it comes to homemade desserts, few things warm the heart quite like a delicious apple crumb cake. This treat seamlessly combines the comforting flavors of tender apples with a sweet, buttery crumb topping that will leave you reaching for just one more slice. It’s the ideal way to celebrate the apple harvest season or to treat yourself on a cozy weekend afternoon.
One of the best things about making an apple crumb cake at home is the enticing aromas that will fill your kitchen. The smell of cinnamon and baked apples is simply irresistible and will have your friends and family eager to dig in. Plus, it’s a fun recipe to get creative with—feel free to use a mix of your favorite apples for added flavor complexity, or experiment with toppings like a drizzle of maple icing or caramel for that extra indulgence.
As you gather your ingredients, consider this: homemade desserts provide a unique sense of satisfaction that store-bought varieties just can't match. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just getting started, this apple crumb cake recipe is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Ready to cozy up with a warm slice? Let’s get baking!
Ingredients for Apple Crumb Cake
When it comes to baking an apple crumb cake that will impress your friends and family, having the right ingredients is crucial. Below, we've outlined the essentials for both the delightful crumb topping and the moist cake itself.
Crumb Topping Ingredients
For that irresistible crumb topping that adds texture and sweetness, gather the following:
- 1 cup (200g) packed light or dark brown sugar
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (16 Tbsp; 226g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 and ½ cups (313g) all-purpose flour (make sure it's spoons and leveled for precision)
Cake Ingredients
Now, let’s focus on the cake itself, which serves as the heart of this apple crumb cake. You'll need:
- 2 and ½ cups (313g) all-purpose flour (again, spooned and leveled)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup (12 Tbsp; 170g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 and ¼ cups (250g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup (240g) full-fat sour cream, also at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups (375g) peeled chopped apples (about 2–3 large apples)
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
With these ingredients in hand, you're well on your way to baking a delicious apple crumb cake that’s perfect for any occasion! Don't forget to check out resources like Sally’s Baking Addiction for tips on measuring flour correctly, ensuring your cake turns out as fluffy as possible. Happy baking!
Preparing Apple Crumb Cake
Creating a delightful apple crumb cake is not only rewarding but also a fun way to infuse your kitchen with the aroma of baked goodness. Let’s take this step by step to make sure your cake turns out perfectly every time!
Preheat the oven and prepare your pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). This ensures your apple crumb cake bakes evenly. While that's heating, grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to make it easier to remove the cake later. You want to ensure that your cake doesn’t stick, so don’t skip this step!
Make the crumb topping
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Add in 1 cup of melted unsalted butter and stir until combined. Now, fold in 2 and ½ cups of all-purpose flour gently with a fork—just enough to create crumb-sized pieces. Avoid over-mixing to keep the crumbs light. Pop this mixture in the refrigerator while you work on the cake—cold crumbs are the secret to a perfectly crisp topping!
Combine dry ingredients for the cake
Next, in a large bowl, whisk together 2 and ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This ensures an even distribution of leavening agents for your cake.
Mix the wet ingredients
Using a handheld or stand mixer, beat together ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 and ¼ cups of granulated sugar on high speed for about three minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl! Add in 3 large eggs, 1 cup of full-fat sour cream, and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Mix until combined. It’s okay if the mixture looks slightly curdled.
Combine dry and wet ingredients, add apples
Now, gently mix in your dry ingredients until just combined—this keeps the cake fluffy. Toss 3 cups of peeled and chopped apples (about 2 to 3 large ones) with ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon and fold them into the batter. You want to see beautiful chunks of apple throughout for that delightful burst of flavor.
Assemble and layer the cake
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan and layer the cinnamon-coated apples on top. Finally, sprinkle on the crumb topping, pressing it gently to ensure it adheres to the batter below.
Bake and cool the cake
Bake your apple crumb cake for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. To prevent over-browning, you can loosely cover the cake with aluminum foil if needed. Once baked, place it on a cooling rack. Allow it to cool for at least 30-45 minutes before slicing and serving.
There you have it! By following these detailed steps, your apple crumb cake will not only look impressive but taste heavenly. Happy baking!
Variations on Apple Crumb Cake
When it comes to apple crumb cake, there’s no need to stick to a single recipe! Here are two delightful twists to elevate your baking game.
Nutty Apple Crumb Cake
For a satisfying crunch, incorporate 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumb topping. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet apples and adds texture that will delight every bite. If you prefer a hint of sweetness, consider drizzling a bit of honey over the cake before serving.
Spiced Apple Crumb Cake
Take your apple crumb cake to the next level by mixing in a combination of warm spices. Adding 1 teaspoon of nutmeg and ½ teaspoon of allspice to the batter will give you a comforting aroma and depth of flavor. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
These variations are perfect for adding your personal touch—what will you create? For more ideas, check out this guide on baking with apples.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Apple Crumb Cake
Ingredient Tips
- For the best flavor in your apple crumb cake, consider using a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Honeycrisp and Granny Smith. This combination enhances the deliciousness without overwhelming sweetness.
- Make sure your butter and sour cream are at room temperature to ensure a smooth batter. Check out this guide on room temperature ingredients for tips.
Mixing and Baking Tips
- Be gentle when mixing your batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so just mix until combined.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary. If the top starts browning too quickly, lightly cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning. This simple trick can make all the difference!
Serving Suggestions for Apple Crumb Cake
Serving with Ice Cream
For a delightful treat, try serving your apple crumb cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess of the ice cream perfectly complements the warm, spiced apples and crumbly topping. If you're feeling adventurous, add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flair!
Pairing with Coffee or Tea
Pairing your apple crumb cake with a cozy cup of coffee or herbal tea can elevate your dessert experience. The rich flavors of a dark roast coffee contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the cake, while a calming chai or green tea can provide a refreshing balance. It's the perfect excuse for a delightful afternoon snack break!
Feel free to explore additional serving ideas and elevate this beloved dessert to new heights! For more pairing inspiration, check out this guide on perfect coffee pairings.
Time Breakdown for Apple Crumb Cake
Preparation time
Get ready to bake with just 20 minutes of prep work! This is where you'll mix your ingredients and prepare the cake batter and crumb topping.
Baking time
The apple crumb cake requires 45-55 minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on it, as baking times can vary a bit!
Total time
In just over 1 hour and 15 minutes, you’ll have a delicious apple crumb cake ready to impress friends and family.
Nutritional Facts for Apple Crumb Cake
When indulging in a slice of apple crumb cake, it's good to be aware of what you’re enjoying. Here's a quick glance at the nutritional content:
- Calories: Approximately 320 per serving. Perfect for a satisfying treat without going overboard.
- Sugar: About 18 grams in each slice. A delightful sweetness that complements the tartness of the apples.
- Protein: Contains around 3 grams. While it’s not a protein powerhouse, every bit counts!
If you're interested in more detailed nutritional insights, consider visiting Healthline or MyFitnessPal for additional resources. Enjoy your apple crumb cake with awareness!
FAQs about Apple Crumb Cake
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! While you can use any apple you like for your apple crumb cake, mixing sweet and tart varieties provides the best flavor. Consider using Honeycrisp for sweetness and Granny Smith for a tangy twist. A blend enhances the depth of taste and brings a delightful complexity to every bite.
How do I store leftover Apple Crumb Cake?
To keep your apple crumb cake fresh, store it tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze it for up to 3 months! Just make sure to wrap it well, and let it thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can this cake be made gluten-free?
Yes, you can absolutely make a gluten-free version! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. This swap will allow you to indulge in delicious apple crumb cake without compromising your dietary needs.
Feel free to explore more about baking and other culinary tips on reliable cooking resources like Sally's Baking Addiction. Happy baking!
Conclusion on Apple Crumb Cake
Why you should try making this at home
Making apple crumb cake at home is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. The combination of sweet apples, buttery crumbs, and creamy cake creates a comforting dessert perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings. Plus, it’s an easy and fun recipe for both novice and expert bakers alike. Give it a try for that homemade touch!
Apple Crumb Cake
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- medium bowl
- Handheld or Stand mixer
- silicone spatula
- Cooling Rack
Ingredients
Crumb Topping
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 ½ cups all purpose flour spooned & leveled
Cake
- 2 ½ cups all purpose flour spooned & leveled
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- 1 ¼ 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
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- optional maple icing
- optional vanilla icing
- optional caramel icing
Instructions
Preparation
- 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 in a medium bowl. Stir in the melted butter. Using a fork, mix in the flour until crumbles form. Place in the refrigerator or freezer until needed in step 6.
- Make the cake: Whisk the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt together. Set aside.
- Beat the butter and granulated sugar together on high speed until light and creamy, about 3 minutes. Add the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla. Beat until combined. Mix in the dry ingredients until smooth.
- Toss the chopped apples and cinnamon together.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Top with the cinnamon-coated apples, then crumble the topping on top.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cover loosely with aluminum foil if browning too quickly.
- Remove from the oven and set on a cooling rack. Allow to cool for at least 30-45 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Drizzle with optional icing if desired.
- Cover leftover cake tightly and store in the refrigerator for 5 days.
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