Cinnamon Apple Crumble Cake Recipe

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Cinnamon Apple Crumble Cake: A Perfect Fall Dessert

Cinnamon Apple Crumble Cake is the ultimate comfort dessert, blending the warm, spiced flavors of cinnamon with the sweet tartness of apples. Topped with a buttery crumble and a drizzle of glaze, this cake is moist, tender, and perfect for cozy gatherings or as an afternoon treat with coffee.

Ingredients

For the cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)

For the crumble topping:

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Optional glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk or heavy cream
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three additions, alternating with the sour cream, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Fold in the diced apples gently to ensure even distribution.

Step 2: Make the Crumble Topping

1. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Pour in the melted butter and mix with a fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Tip: For an extra crunchy topping, add ¼ cup chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
2. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the batter.
3. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Check out this baking guide for more tips on achieving the perfect cake texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake for added sweetness and a glossy finish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Cinnamon Apple Crumble Cake warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Freshly whipped cream
• A cup of hot coffee or spiced cider

For more fall dessert inspiration, explore this collection of apple desserts.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Cover and store at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Warm, Spiced Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and apples is quintessentially cozy and comforting.
2. Crunchy Topping: The buttery crumble adds a delightful contrast to the soft, moist cake.
3. Versatile and Easy: Perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to holiday brunches.

This Cinnamon Apple Crumble Cake is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall, offering a blend of sweetness, spice, and texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy!

Cinnamon Apple Crumble Cake FAQ

1. What is Cinnamon Apple Crumble Cake?
Cinnamon Apple Crumble Cake is a moist, spiced cake loaded with fresh apples and topped with a crunchy streusel crumble. It’s the perfect blend of a coffee cake and a fruit crumble, offering a warm, comforting flavor ideal for fall or winter.

2. What ingredients do I need for this cake?
The key ingredients are:

• Cake batter:
  • Apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder and baking soda
  • Cinnamon and nutmeg
  • Butter
  • Sugar (brown and granulated)
  • Eggs
  • Milk or buttermilk
  • Vanilla extract
• Crumble topping:
  • Flour
  • Butter (cold)
  • Brown sugar
  • Cinnamon

3. Can I use different types of apples?
Yes! Tart apples like Granny Smith work best, but you can also use:

• Honeycrisp for a balance of sweet and tart
• Fuji or Gala for a sweeter flavor
  A combination of tart and sweet apples adds depth to the flavor.

4. How do I make the crumble topping crispy?
For a crisp crumble:

1. Use cold butter and cut it into the flour and sugar until pea-sized crumbs form.
2. Don’t overmix—chunks of butter create the best texture.
3. Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the batter, avoiding pressing it down.

5. Should I peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but if you prefer a rustic feel, leave the skins on. Just ensure the apples are thinly sliced or diced.

6. How do I prevent the cake from being soggy?
To avoid a soggy cake:

• Drain excess juice if the apples release too much liquid while slicing.
• Toss apples in a bit of flour before adding them to the batter.
• Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, which may take 45-55 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

7. Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Consider adding:

• Chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble for extra crunch.
• Raisins or dried cranberries for added sweetness.
• A dash of ginger or allspice for additional warmth.

8. How long should I let it cool before serving?
Allow the cake to cool for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This helps the crumble set and makes it easier to serve.

9. How do I store Cinnamon Apple Crumble Cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container:

• At room temperature for up to 2 days.
• In the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  Reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds for a freshly baked taste.

10. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) before serving.

Cinnamon Apple Crumble Cake: A Cozy Dessert for All Seasons

Imagine the aroma of cinnamon-spiced apples baking in the oven, mingling with the buttery scent of a crumbly streusel topping. Cinnamon Apple Crumble Cake brings together the best of two desserts: the rich, moist texture of a classic cake and the crunchy, sweet topping of a traditional crumble. This dessert is perfect for cozy evenings, festive gatherings, or any time you crave a taste of home.

In this article, we’ll explore the flavors and textures that make this cake irresistible, share tips for making the perfect crumble, and offer ideas for customization.

Why Cinnamon Apple Crumble Cake Is a Must-Bake

1. Irresistible Flavor Combination: The sweetness of apples, the warmth of cinnamon, and the buttery crumble create a harmonious blend of flavors.
2. Versatile Dessert: Perfect as a dessert, snack, or even a decadent breakfast treat with coffee.
3. Seasonal Appeal: While apples are a fall favorite, this cake is delightful year-round.

For more ideas on incorporating apples into baking, visit King Arthur Baking’s apple recipe collection.

Key Ingredients

1. Apples: Use tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a balance of sweetness and acidity.
2. Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice, elevating the natural sweetness of the apples.
3. Streusel Crumble: A simple mix of butter, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon creates the perfect crunchy topping.
4. Moist Cake Base: A buttery, vanilla-scented cake provides the perfect canvas for the apples and crumble.

Tips for the Perfect Crumble

1. Keep the Butter Cold: Cold butter is essential for a crumbly, crisp topping. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine.
2. Balance the Sugar: Use a mix of brown sugar for caramel notes and granulated sugar for a lighter sweetness.
3. Add Nuts or Oats: For extra crunch, incorporate chopped pecans, walnuts, or oats into the crumble mixture.

For tips on perfecting crumble toppings, check out The Kitchn’s guide.

Customization Ideas

1. Caramel Drizzle: Add a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce for extra decadence.
2. Spiced Variations: Enhance the cake with nutmeg, cardamom, or cloves for added depth.
3. Fruit Mix: Combine apples with pears or cranberries for a twist on the classic flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

1. With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm cake.
2. With Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy contrast.
3. As a Breakfast Cake: Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a satisfying morning treat.

Storage and Reheating Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
2. Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
3. Reheating: Warm slices in the oven or microwave to restore the cake’s moist texture and the crumble’s crunch.

For more on storing baked goods, visit Bon Appétit’s storage guide.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Apple Crumble Cake is the epitome of comfort baking—a dessert that fills your home with the warm aroma of cinnamon and apples while delivering layers of flavor and texture in every bite. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it on your own, this cake is sure to become a go-to favorite.