Let’s talk about something that warms the heart and fills the belly, Apple Crumb Cake. Just saying it makes you think of cozy afternoons, sweet scents wafting from the oven, and the kind of comfort that reminds you of home. Baking this Apple Crumb Cake is not just about throwing ingredients together; it’s about creating an experience, a moment of joy that you can share with those you love. If you’ve ever found solace in mixing batter or melting butter, you’re in for a delightful adventure with this recipe.
Why Make This Recipe
Why choose an Apple Crumb Cake? It’s simple. This cake is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With all those juicy apples packed in, each bite is a burst of flavor that sings “fall” any time of the year. Plus, the crumb topping adds that crunch you didn’t know you needed. It’s like a giant hug from the oven, and let’s face it, we all need a little more of that good stuff in our lives. This cake is also perfect for gatherings, tea time, or whenever you feel like treating yourself. It’s versatile enough to be dressed up for a fancy occasion or enjoyed just as it is, with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top. It’s a recipe that brings joy and celebrates the simplicity of life.
How to Make Apple Crumb Cake
Making this lovely Apple Crumb Cake is as easy as pie, oh wait, wrong dessert! But you get the idea! Let’s break it down into simple steps.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups apples, peeled and diced
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup oats
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for drizzle)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for drizzle)
Directions:
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing and flouring a 9×13 inch baking pan will make sure your cake doesn’t stick.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This is where the magic starts!
Mix in Eggs and Milk: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well mixed in. Stir in the milk to add that moist, dreamy texture.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the creamed butter and sugar.
Fold in Apples: Gently fold in the diced apples, which gives the cake that beautiful, fruity flavor.
Pour into Pan: Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly.
Make the Crumb Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar, oats, and any nuts that you might be using. Then sprinkle this delicious mixture over the top of your cake batter.
Bake: Bake in the oven for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Drizzle: While your cake cools a bit, mix the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. This drizzle is the finishing touch.
Serve: Let your cake cool slightly before drizzling the icing over the top.
How to Serve Apple Crumb Cake
Serving this Apple Crumb Cake can be as casual or as elegant as you wish. It’s perfect sliced warm from the oven, but let’s be real, a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top elevates it effortlessly. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream for that extra touch of indulgence. Let your guests enjoy it with a warm cup of coffee or tea, creating the perfect cozy vibe. You could even get fancy and serve it with some caramel sauce drizzled over—because why not treat yourself?
How to Store Apple Crumb Cake
You may want to keep your Apple Crumb Cake for a little longer because who can resist another slice? To store it, simply wrap the cake in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for a few days, but if you want it to last longer, pop it in the refrigerator where it will hold up beautifully for about a week. Just make sure to let the cake come to room temperature before serving, so it’s as delightful as the first bite.
Tips to Make Apple Crumb Cake
Choose Your Apples Wisely: For the best flavor and texture, go for a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to keep the cake nice and fluffy.
Customize the Nuts: If you’re not a fan of walnuts or pecans, feel free to leave them out or substitute with your favorite nut or even seeds.
Add a Spice Twist: A pinch of nutmeg or even a splash of vanilla can elevate the flavors in this recipe.
Variation
Feeling adventurous? You can easily turn this cake into an apple-cinnamon version by adding a swirl of cinnamon sugar in the batter or mixing in some raisins or dried cranberries. If you want to make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Make it your own!
FAQs
1. Can I use different fruits?
Absolutely! Try substituting apples with pears, peaches, or cranberries for a delightful twist.
2. What if I don’t have brown sugar?
You can substitute brown sugar with granulated sugar. You can even add a bit of molasses to granulated sugar to mimic brown sugar.
3. Is it possible to freeze Apple Crumb Cake?
Yes, this cake freezes well! Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw before serving!
Now that you’re armed with this recipe and tips, go forth and create your own Apple Crumb Cake magic! It’s about more than just baking; it’s about finding joy in the little moments and sharing that sweetness with the world. Happy baking!
Print
Apple Crumb Cake
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm, comforting Apple Crumb Cake filled with juicy apples and topped with a crunchy crumb layer, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups apples, peeled and diced
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup oats
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for drizzle)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for drizzle)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, and stir in the milk.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt, then gradually add this to the creamed mixture.
- Fold in the diced apples.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, oats, and nuts, then sprinkle on top of the batter.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Mix powdered sugar and milk for the drizzle.
- Let cool slightly before drizzling with icing.
Notes
Serve warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, vanilla ice cream, or caramel sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg