Rustic Apple Crumb Cake with a Buttery Streusel Topping
There is a special kind of magic that happens when a dessert is both rustic and elegant. This Apple Crumb Cake embodies that charm perfectly. It’s a multi-layered masterpiece, featuring a tender, buttery cake base, a sweet and tangy spiced apple filling, and a generous layer of buttery, crunchy streusel on top. The moment you take it out of the oven, your kitchen will be filled with an intoxicating aroma of cinnamon and warm apples, a scent that is the very definition of comfort. This cake is a testament to simple ingredients coming together to create something truly extraordinary. It’s the kind of dessert that feels special enough for a celebration but comforting enough for a simple afternoon treat. With its irresistible contrast of textures and flavors, this apple crumb cake is a slice of pure joy in every bite. It’s a dessert that not only tastes incredible but also tells a story of homemade warmth and timeless indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This:
- A Symphony of Textures: This cake is all about the layers, and each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect bite. You get the moist, fluffy, and tender cake, followed by the soft and flavorful spiced apples, and it’s all finished with a crisp, buttery streusel. The combination of these three distinct textures makes every single forkful exciting and incredibly satisfying, proving that a simple cake can offer a complex and delightful experience.
- Classic, Comforting Flavors: The flavors in this cake are truly timeless. The warm, aromatic cinnamon and nutmeg in both the apple filling and the streusel create a comforting warmth that pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the apples. It tastes like a classic apple pie and a moist coffee cake all in one, but in a new, more delightful and portable format that everyone will love.
- Impressive yet Simple: While this cake looks incredibly beautiful and complex, it’s surprisingly simple to make. The recipe is broken down by its components—the streusel, the apple filling, and the cake batter—and each step is straightforward. This makes it a perfect recipe for bakers of all skill levels, allowing you to create a beautiful, bakery-quality dessert without any complicated techniques.
- The Ultimate Brunch Treat: The crumb cake’s homey charm and satisfying layers make it a perfect fit for a weekend brunch or a special morning occasion. It pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee and is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone, offering a sweet and satisfying start to any day.
Perfect Occasion:
This apple crumb cake is a versatile dessert that shines in many different settings. Its inviting aroma and comforting flavor make it an ideal choice for a cozy breakfast or brunch, where it can be the centerpiece of the table. You can serve it as a special treat for family on a weekend morning, or as a standout dessert for a holiday get-together like Thanksgiving or Christmas. Its elegance also makes it a fantastic dessert to bring to a potluck, a casual coffee date with friends, or a bake sale. The cake’s rustic beauty makes it feel special and celebratory, while its simple, comforting flavor profile ensures it will be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a warm dessert for a chilly night or a special cake to share with loved ones, this apple crumb cake is the perfect choice to create a lasting memory.
Serving and Decoration Tips:
- A Drizzle of Caramel: For a truly decadent finish, you can drizzle the cooled cake with a rich caramel sauce before serving. The sweet, buttery notes of the caramel pair beautifully with the spiced apples and crumb topping, adding an extra layer of richness that will make this cake unforgettable.
- A Dusting of Powdered Sugar: For a simple and elegant look, dust the top of the cooled cake with a light layer of powdered sugar. The snowy white finish provides a beautiful contrast to the golden-brown crumb topping and adds a touch of simple sweetness.
- Serve with Ice Cream: For a classic combination that is hard to beat, serve a warm slice of the cake with a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream. The contrast of the warm, spiced cake and the cold, smooth ice cream is absolutely divine and makes for a perfect ending to any meal.
- Add a Savory Pairing: For a unique and delicious pairing, serve a slice of the cake with a small wedge of sharp cheddar cheese. The savory notes of the cheese are a classic complement to the sweet apples and spices, creating a wonderfully complex flavor experience.
Ingredients:
- For the Crumble Topping: The star of the show, this crumble adds a crucial crunchy texture. It is a simple mixture of cold, diced unsalted butter (85g), which is essential for creating a chunky texture; all-purpose flour (120g) which forms the base; light brown sugar (160g) for a deep, molasses-like sweetness; a generous amount of cinnamon (2 tsp) for warmth; and a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
- For the Apple Filling: This provides a sweet, tangy, and spiced layer. We use Granny Smith apples (about 4 cups/450g), which are a favorite for baking because they hold their shape well and provide a nice tartness. The apples are cooked with light brown sugar (100g), cinnamon (1.5 tsp), and a pinch of salt for a perfect balance of sweet and spice. The addition of water (2.5 Tbsp), lemon juice (1 Tbsp) for brightness, and a touch of butter (56g) creates a rich sauce that is thickened with a cornstarch (2 tsp) and water slurry to prevent a soggy bottom.
- For the Cake: The moist and tender base. We use all-purpose flour (240g) and baking powder (2 tsp) for a light structure, with a ½ tsp of salt to balance the flavors. The cake gets its richness from softened unsalted butter (141g), granulated sugar (150g), and light brown sugar (53g) which are beaten together until light and fluffy. We also use eggs (2), vanilla (2 tsp), sour cream (115g), and milk (2 Tbsp) to create a tender, moist, and delicious crumb that stays fresh for days.
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Crumble Topping
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until they are evenly combined. Take the cold, diced unsalted butter and add it to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the dry ingredients. Continue rubbing until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs with some larger, pea-sized chunks. For an extra-chunky streusel, you can squeeze the mixture in your hand to form a ball, then gently break it apart. This will create larger crumbs that are perfect for the top of the cake. Once the mixture is ready, transfer the bowl to the fridge to chill while you prepare the filling and cake. This will ensure the crumble stays firm and holds its shape during baking.
Step 2: Cook the Apple Filling
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the peeled and sliced Granny Smith apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, water, lemon juice, butter, and a pinch of salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the butter has fully melted and the sugar has dissolved. Cover the saucepan with a lid and cook the apples for about 8-10 minutes, or until the apples have softened but still hold their shape. In a small separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water until it forms a smooth, lump-free slurry. Stir this cornstarch mixture into the apples and continue to simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously, until the sauce has thickened and become a beautiful, glossy glaze. Remove the saucepan from the heat and set the filling aside to cool slightly before assembling the cake.
Step 3: Make the Cake Batter
First, prepare your oven and pan. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter or baking spray and line the bottom with a round of parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar together for 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture becomes light, pale, and fluffy. This creaming step is essential for a tender crumb. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until each is just combined and the mixture is smooth and emulsified.
Step 4: Combine and Assemble the Cake
Next, mix in the vanilla and sour cream until they are fully combined with the butter mixture. Add the dry ingredients to the large bowl and mix until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can result in a tough cake. Then, mix in the milk until the batter is smooth and a uniform consistency is reached. Gently spread the cake batter evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan using a spatula. Spoon the cooled apple filling on top of the cake batter, spreading it into an even layer. Finally, take the chilled crumble topping from the fridge and sprinkle it all over the top of the cake, ensuring the entire surface is covered in a generous layer of crumbs.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-53 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The top should be a beautiful golden-brown, and the cake will feel firm to the touch. If the top of the cake starts to brown too much before the inside is cooked, you can cover it loosely with a sheet of aluminum foil. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. This will allow it to set up and make it easier to remove from the springform pan. Run a knife around the edge of the pan before releasing the springform. Slice and serve while still slightly warm, or at room temperature, and enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
This Apple Crumb Cake is a fantastic make-ahead dessert, which makes it perfect for a busy week or a planned gathering. You can prepare the apple filling and the crumble topping up to two days in advance and store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The cooked apple filling can be placed in a sealed container, and the crumble topping can be kept in a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply take them out, let them come to room temperature, and proceed with the recipe as instructed. This allows you to serve a fresh-baked cake without having to do all the work at once. You can also bake the entire cake a day in advance and store it at room temperature, ready to be sliced and served, as its flavors will only get better over time.
Storage Tips for Apple Crumb Cake
- Room Temperature: The best way to store this cake is in an airtight container at room temperature. The cake will stay incredibly moist and delicious for 2-3 days. The container will help to keep the crumb topping from losing its crispiness.
- Refrigerator: If you live in a warm or humid climate, you can store the cake in the refrigerator. Just be aware that the cold air may firm up the cake’s texture slightly. Simply let a slice come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before enjoying it. The cake will last for up to a week in the fridge.
- Freezer: For long-term storage, you can freeze the cake. Once the cake has cooled completely, wrap the entire cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in a layer of aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you are ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature. You can even warm a slice in the microwave for a few seconds for a fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.
Tips for the Best Apple Crumb Cake
- Use Cold Butter for the Crumble: This is a crucial step for a chunky, beautiful crumb topping. The cold butter will not melt into the flour, which allows you to create those perfect, large pieces.
- Don’t Overcook the Apples: Cook the apples just until they are tender. You still want them to have a little bit of bite. Overcooking them will result in a mushy filling.
- Room Temperature Ingredients for the Cake: For a light and fluffy cake, it’s essential that your eggs, butter, and sour cream are at room temperature. This will allow them to incorporate more smoothly into the batter.
- Don’t Over-Mix the Batter: When you add the dry ingredients to the wet, mix only until they are just combined. Overmixing will develop the gluten and result in a tough, dense cake.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check the center of the cake. It should come out clean. Remember that the cake will continue to cook as it cools, so don’t worry if it looks slightly underdone in the center.
Apple Crumb Cake Variations & Substitutions
- Different Spices: While cinnamon and nutmeg are classics, you can add other warm spices to the apple filling or the crumble topping. Try adding a quarter teaspoon of ground ginger or allspice for a spicier, more complex flavor.
- A Different Fruit: You can easily substitute the apples for another fruit that holds up well to baking. Pears or peaches would be delicious alternatives. If using a juicier fruit, you may need to add a little more cornstarch to thicken the filling.
- Add a Savory Element: For a unique twist, you can add a half-cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the crumble topping. The savory, tangy notes of the cheese are a classic pairing with apples and create a wonderfully delicious contrast.
- Make it Nutty: For an added crunch and nutty flavor, you can add a half-cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumble topping. They will toast beautifully as the cake bakes.
What to Serve with Apple Crumb Cake
The warm, comforting flavors of this cake make it the perfect pairing for a variety of beverages and other treats. For a cozy breakfast or brunch, a slice of this cake is a wonderful partner for a hot cup of black coffee or a creamy latte. The rich flavors of the coffee will complement the warm spices in the cake. For an afternoon treat, a mug of warm apple cider or a spicy chai tea latte would be the perfect companion. The spices in the drinks will complement the cinnamon and nutmeg in the cake. For a more decadent dessert, serve a slice of the warm cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a generous dollop of whipped cream on the side. The contrast of the warm cake and the cold, creamy topping is absolutely divine.
Apple Crumb Cake FAQs
Why is my crumble topping soggy?
A soggy crumble topping is usually a result of the apple filling being too watery. To avoid this, make sure you cook the apple filling until it is very thick and glossy. It should be able to hold its shape on a spoon. Also, ensure the filling is completely cool before adding it to the cake batter to prevent it from melting the batter.
Why did my cake come out dense and tough?
A dense or tough cake is almost always caused by overmixing the batter. Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet, mix only until they are just combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which leads to a tough, dense texture. It’s better to have a few streaks of flour than an overmixed batter.
What is the purpose of the sour cream?
Sour cream is a fantastic ingredient for baking because it adds a wonderful amount of moisture and a subtle tang to the cake. The fat and acidity in the sour cream react with the baking powder to create a light and tender crumb. It’s a key ingredient for achieving the cake’s incredible moistness and richness.
Can I use a different kind of apple?
Yes, you can. While Granny Smith apples are a great choice because they are firm and tart, you can use other types of apples. Just be aware that sweeter apples may require you to reduce the amount of sugar in the filling. Look for apples that are firm and hold their shape well when baked, such as Honeycrisp or Gala.
How can I tell if the cake is done?
The best way to tell if your cake is done is to insert a toothpick or a cake tester into the very center of the cake. When it comes out clean with no raw batter, it is ready. If you notice the top is browning too quickly, you can cover the cake loosely with a sheet of aluminum foil to prevent it from burning while the inside continues to cook.
Apple Crumb Cake
Ingredients
For the Crumble Topping
- 85 g unsalted butter cold and diced
- 120 g all-purpose flour
- 160 g light brown sugar packed
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
For the Apple Filling
- 4 Granny Smith apples about 4 cups/450g, peeled and sliced
- 100 g light brown sugar packed
- 1 ½ tsp cinnamon
- 2 ½ Tbsp water
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- 56 g unsalted butter
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 Tbsp water
For the Cake
- 240 g all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 141 g unsalted butter softened
- 150 g granulated sugar
- 53 g light brown sugar packed
- 2 eggs room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla
- 115 g sour cream room temperature
- 2 Tbsp milk
Instructions
- Prepare Crumble: Whisk flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Rub in cold, diced butter until crumbly. Chill in the fridge.
- Make Apple Filling: Combine apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, water, lemon juice, butter, and salt in a saucepan. Cook until apples soften. Stir in cornstarch mixture until thickened. Cool slightly.
- Make Cake Batter: Preheat oven to 350°F. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Beat butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Mix in eggs, vanilla, and sour cream. Add dry ingredients and milk until just combined.
- Assemble and Bake: Spread batter into a greased 9-inch pan. Spoon apple filling on top, then sprinkle with crumble. Bake for 45-53 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool: Cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
