This Grape Crumble Cake, known locally as “cuque,” is a delightful treat that combines a soft, moist cake base with a generous topping of sweet grapes and a buttery streusel. The cake is rich in flavor, with a hint of vanilla and the natural sweetness of black grapes. The crumbly topping adds a perfect crunch, making every bite a delightful contrast of textures. Whether you call it “cuque” or “cuca,” this cake is sure to become a favorite for its simplicity and deliciousness.
Why You’ll Love This:
You’ll love this Grape Crumble Cake for its moist, tender cake base and the crunchy, buttery streusel topping. The black grapes provide a burst of juicy sweetness that perfectly complements the soft cake. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to experiment with different fruits or fillings, making it a go-to dessert for any occasion. The cake is easy to prepare, and its homely, rustic appearance makes it even more inviting.
Perfect Occasion:
This Grape Crumble Cake is perfect for a cozy afternoon snack, a casual dessert, or even a breakfast treat. It’s a great addition to brunch spreads or tea time gatherings. The cake’s versatility also makes it a wonderful choice for potlucks, family gatherings, or whenever you want to enjoy a comforting homemade treat. With its delicious flavor and satisfying texture, this cake is sure to please a crowd.
Decoration Tips:
For an extra touch of sweetness, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar before serving. You can also add a few fresh grapes on top for a pop of color and to hint at the flavor inside. If you’re feeling indulgent, serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Present the cake on a rustic wooden board or a simple cake stand to complement its homely appeal.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 large eggs
- 150 g sugar
- 60 g softened butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 225 g all-purpose flour
- 1 pinch of salt
- 180 ml milk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
For the Filling and Streusel:
- 150 g all-purpose flour
- 1 pinch of salt
- 80 g cold butter, cubed
- 50 g sugar
- 350 g black grapes (e.g., Vitória)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, beat together the sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until the batter is smooth and homogenous.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Sift in the flour and add the milk, mixing until the batter is smooth. Finally, fold in the baking powder.
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a medium-sized rectangular baking pan (approximately 27 x 21 cm). Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Set aside while you prepare the streusel.
- Make the Streusel: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the cold butter cubes and mix with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Assemble the Cake: Distribute the grapes evenly over the cake batter, then sprinkle the streusel topping over the grapes.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cake is cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!
Enjoy!
