Introduction to Apple Crumb Cake
What is Apple Crumb Cake and Why You’ll Love It?
If you’re searching for a delightful dessert that captures the essence of cozy fall days, Apple Crumb Cake is a must-try. This delectable treat combines a moist, tender cake that’s packed with sweet, tart apples and is topped with a generous layer of crumbly, buttery goodness. The blend of cinnamon and sugar creates a warm, inviting aroma that will make your kitchen feel like a welcoming haven.
One of the great things about this dish is its versatility. It can be enjoyed as a sweet breakfast alongside your morning coffee or as a comforting dessert after dinner. The crumb topping adds an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake beneath.
For those who appreciate homemade goodies, this recipe provides an opportunity to showcase your baking skills without requiring advanced techniques. With simple, recognizable ingredients—like apples, flour, and butter—you'll feel a sense of satisfaction knowing that you've made something delicious from scratch.
Incorporate seasonal ingredients like fresh apples and spices to elevate the flavor profile. Curious about how to bake your own? Let’s dive deeper into the recipe for a slice of this delightful Apple Crumb Cake!
Ingredients for Apple Crumb Cake
Essential Ingredients for Crumb Topping
The crumb topping is what takes your Apple Crumb Cake from good to great. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Brown Sugar: 1 cup (200g), packed, adds that deep caramel-like flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: ½ cup (100g), for sweetness.
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 Tablespoon, because cinnamon and apples are a classic match.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon, to balance the sweetness.
- Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (226g), melted, ensuring that delicious crumbly texture.
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 and ½ cups (313g), spooned and leveled, to bind it all together.
Key Ingredients for the Cake Base
Now, let’s talk about the cake itself, which is equally essential:
- All-Purpose Flour: Another 2 and ½ cups (313g), ensuring a sturdy yet tender base.
- Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon for that perfect rise.
- Baking Powder: ½ teaspoon as a secondary leavening agent.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon, to enhance flavors.
- Unsalted Butter: ¾ cup (170g), softened for a rich, moist cake.
- Granulated Sugar: 1 and ¼ cups (250g) to sweeten the batter.
- Eggs: 3 large, at room temperature for richness.
- Sour Cream: 1 cup (240g), full-fat, adds moisture and tang.
- Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons for depth.
- Chopped Apples: 3 cups (375g), peeled and chopped, the star of the show!
With these ingredients, you're on your way to baking something truly delicious. Don't forget to check out our tips on measuring ingredients to achieve the best results!
Preparing Apple Crumb Cake
Making an Apple Crumb Cake is not only a delightful treat but a great way to bring the cozy flavors of fall into your kitchen, no matter the season. Let’s dive into the steps that will guide you through this delicious baking adventure.
Preheat the oven and prepare your pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). While the oven heats up, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and either grease it with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This ensures that your cake will pop out easily once it’s baked, giving you a gorgeous presentation.
Make the crumb topping
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of packed brown sugar, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Then, stir in 1 cup of melted unsalted butter. Using a fork, gently mix in 2 and ½ cups of all-purpose flour until you achieve a crumbly texture. Try to avoid over-mixing, as those lovely clumps are what will create a satisfying crunch on top of your cake. Once ready, place this mixture in the fridge while you work on the cake batter. Cold crumbs bake up beautifully!
Mix the dry ingredients for the cake
In another 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 step is essential as it ensures that all your leavening agents are evenly distributed, giving your cake that light and fluffy consistency.
Cream the butter and sugar
Now it’s time to make the batter! Using a stand mixer or handheld mixer, cream together ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 and ¼ cups of granulated sugar on high speed for about three minutes. The mixture should be light and fluffy—this is a key step for ensuring a tender cake. Add in 3 eggs, 1 cup of sour cream, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
Combine wet and dry ingredients
Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture on low speed. Be careful not to overmix; you want your batter smooth but thick.
Fold in the apples and cinnamon
Next, gently fold in 3 cups of peeled, chopped apples along with ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. These apples are going to be the star of your Apple Crumb Cake!
Assemble and bake the cake
Spread the cake batter evenly in your prepared pan. Top with the cinnamon-coated apples, then finish with the crumb topping. Press it down gently so it sticks. Bake for 45-55 minutes, but keep an eye on it! A toothpick inserted should come out clean. If the edges begin to brown too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil.
Let it cool for at least 30-45 minutes on a cooling rack before serving. If you feel fancy, drizzle on some icing for a sweet touch! Can you smell it already? Enjoy your slice of heaven!
Variations on Apple Crumb Cake
Adding Nuts for Crunch
One delicious way to take your Apple Crumb Cake to the next level is by incorporating nuts. Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples beautifully. Simply stir in about half a cup of your choice into the apple mixture before adding it to the batter. This not only enhances the texture but also adds healthy fats and protein, making your dessert a bit more satisfying.
Swapping Apples for Pears
Feeling adventurous? Try swapping out the apples for ripe pears. While still maintaining the deliciousness of a classic Apple Crumb Cake, pears introduce a slightly different flavor profile that can be both sweet and aromatic. Choose ripe but firm pears for best results and follow the same preparation methods as you would for apples. Your cake will have a refreshing twist, perfect for those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Apple Crumb Cake
How to Ensure a Moist Cake
To achieve a beautifully moist Apple Crumb Cake, start by using room-temperature ingredients, like eggs and sour cream. This helps everything blend smoothly for a rich texture. Also, be cautious with your mixing—overmixing can lead to a dense cake. A final tip: don’t skip the apples! Their natural moisture is crucial, so make sure your fruit is fresh and juicy.
Storing Leftovers Properly
After enjoying your delicious Apple Crumb Cake, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To maintain freshness, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap. If you want to keep it even longer, pop it in the freezer; just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, allow it to thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.
For more baking tips, check out this guide on how to store cakes!
Serving Suggestions for Apple Crumb Cake
Ideal accompaniments
Enjoying a slice of Apple Crumb Cake becomes even more delightful when paired with the right accompaniments. Consider serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the sweetness and spice. For a lighter option, a sprinkle of powdered sugar can elevate the cake's presentation. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a warm cup of chai tea makes for a perfect pairing, enhancing the apple and cinnamon flavors beautifully.
Presentation tips for gatherings
When hosting, make your Apple Crumb Cake the centerpiece. Serve it on a beautiful cake stand and drizzle with optional icing for a gourmet touch. You can even garnish the plate with a few apple slices or cinnamon sticks for a charming look. Don’t forget to provide plates and utensils for easy serving, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful dessert without any hassle! For more inspiration on setting a beautiful dessert table, check out this guide.
Time Breakdown for Apple Crumb Cake
Preparation Time
Getting everything ready will take about 20 minutes. This includes peeling and chopping those delicious apples and mixing the crumb topping.
Baking Time
You’ll need 45 to 55 minutes in the oven, depending on how your specific oven runs. Just keep an eye on it!
Total Time
From start to finish, you're looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Perfect for a cozy baking session on a weekend! For tips on making the most of your time, check out these time management tips for baking.
Nutritional Facts for Apple Crumb Cake
When indulging in a slice of Apple Crumb Cake, it’s helpful to know what you’re getting in terms of nutrition. Here's a quick overview of the key components:
Calories
Each slice contains approximately 320 calories, making it a delightful treat without derailing your daily meal plan.
Fat Content
With around 15 grams of fat per serving, this cake includes a mix of healthy fats from the butter, which also contributes to its rich flavor.
Sugar Content
At about 20 grams of sugar, the Apple Crumb Cake offers a satisfying sweetness, perfectly balanced by the tartness of the apples.
For more on balancing treats with healthier meal options, consider checking nutrition insights from Harvard Health. Enjoy your baking!
FAQs about Apple Crumb Cake
Can I use gluten-free flour?
Absolutely! If you're looking to enjoy a gluten-free apple crumb cake, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure it’s a high-quality blend that includes xanthan gum for better texture. Your cake will still be delicious!
What apples are best for baking?
When it comes to baking, choose apples that hold their shape and have a balanced flavor. Some excellent options include:
- Granny Smith: Tart and firm, perfect for balancing sweetness.
- Honeycrisp: Crisp and sweet with a juicy texture.
- Braeburn: Offers a mix of sweet and tart flavors.
Feel free to mix varieties for a more complex taste!
How long does the cake stay fresh?
Your Apple Crumb Cake will remain fresh for about five days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing individual slices. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and they’ll last for up to three months!
For more tips on baking and storage, check out this resource on storing baked goods.
Conclusion on Apple Crumb Cake
Embrace homemade goodness with Apple Crumb Cake!
Baking Apple Crumb Cake at home is a delightful experience. The aroma fills your kitchen, creating a warm atmosphere. With its moist texture and crunchy topping, this cake is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Share with friends and family; they’ll surely ask for seconds!
Apple Crumb Cake
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Handheld mixer
- Spatula
- Cooling Rack
Ingredients
Crumb Topping
- 1 cup brown sugar packed light or dark
- 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](https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/how-to-measure-baking-ingredients/)
Cake
- 2.5 cups all purpose flour [spooned & leveled](https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/how-to-measure-baking-ingredients/)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.75 cup unsalted butter [softened to room temperature](https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/room-temperature-butter/)
- 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
- optional toppings [maple icing](https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/melt-in-your-mouth-maple-cinnamon-rolls/), [vanilla icing](https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/vanilla-icing/), or caramel icing from [apple cinnamon rolls](https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/apple-cinnamon-rolls/)
Instructions
Baking Instructions
- 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. Don’t over-mix. Place in the refrigerator or freezer until you need it 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 on medium-high speed until combined. Scrape down the sides as needed. 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 cinnamon-coated apples and crumb topping. Press topping down into the cake.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cover with aluminum foil if browning too quickly.
- Remove the cake 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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