Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake Recipe

⏱️ Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Servings: 9-12 servings

📝 Ingredients List

For the Cake:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 cups fresh apples, peeled and diced small

For the Crumb Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

• 9×9 inch square baking pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Parchment paper
• Pastry cutter or fork
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Whisk

Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Crumb: In a medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside in the fridge. 🥣
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
4. Combine: Gently fold in the flour and baking powder alternately with the milk. Be careful not to overmix; keep it light! Add the diced apples.
5. Assemble: Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Sprinkle the chilled crumb topping evenly over the surface.
6. Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool for 15 minutes before slicing. Enjoy! 🥧

💡 Pro Tips Section

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or store in the fridge for up to a week.
• Perfect Texture: Ensure your butter for the crumb topping is ice-cold; this creates the signature crunchy texture.
• Apple Choice: Use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for the best balance of tartness and structure.

Variations

• Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumb topping for extra texture.
• Glazed Finish: Whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1 tbsp of milk for a simple drizzle over the cooled cake.

FAQ

• Can I use frozen apples? It is better to use fresh, firm apples, as frozen apples release too much moisture and might make the cake soggy.
• Is this cake suitable for a brunch buffet? Absolutely! It holds its shape well and can be cut into smaller finger-food sizes.