This Lazy Apple Crumble Cake is a quick and easy dessert that brings together the warmth of cinnamon-spiced apples with the irresistible crunch of a buttery crumble topping. The cake is made by layering sweet, tender apple slices with a simple crumble mixture, then pouring a rich egg and milk mixture over the top. As it bakes, the cake forms a delightful blend of textures, with a soft, custard-like base and a golden, crumbly top. Perfect for when you want a comforting dessert with minimal effort, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Why You’ll Love This: You’ll love this cake for its simplicity and deliciousness. The combination of tart apples, fragrant cinnamon, and sweet crumble creates a dessert that’s both comforting and satisfying. The custard-like base adds a rich, creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy topping. This cake is versatile enough to serve as a dessert, a snack, or even a special breakfast treat. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s perfect for those days when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen.
Perfect Occasion: This Lazy Apple Crumble Cake is ideal for casual family dinners, weekend brunches, or when you’re hosting friends for coffee or tea. Its rustic charm and comforting flavors make it a great choice for fall and winter gatherings, especially when apples are in season. The cake also travels well, making it perfect for potlucks, picnics, or any event where you want to bring a homemade dessert that’s sure to please.
Decoration Tips: For a simple yet elegant presentation, dust the cooled cake with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar before serving. You can also add a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence, or serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. If you’re using walnuts and cranberries in the filling, consider sprinkling a few extra on top before baking for added texture and visual appeal.
Ingredients:
- For the Apple Filling:
- 5 apples, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Optional: a handful of chopped walnuts
- Optional: a handful of dried cranberries
- For the Crumble:
- 120 g butter, cold and cubed
- 150 g sugar
- 220 g self-raising flour (or 220 g all-purpose flour + 2 tsp baking powder + a pinch of salt)
- For the Liquid Mixture:
- 3 eggs
- 400 ml milk
- Prepare the Apple Filling: Start by peeling and slicing the apples into thin wedges. Place the apple slices in a large bowl and toss them with cinnamon, lemon juice, and sugar until well coated. If desired, add a handful of chopped walnuts and dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor. Set aside.
- Make the Crumble: In another bowl, combine the cold, cubed butter with the sugar and flour. Use your fingers to rub the mixture together until it resembles coarse crumbs. This crumble mixture will create the base and topping for your cake, giving it a deliciously crunchy texture.
- Prepare the Liquid Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined. This liquid mixture will be poured over the crumble and apples, creating a custard-like base as the cake bakes.
- Assemble the Cake: Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease and flour a 24 cm (9.5-inch) round baking dish. Spread half of the crumble mixture evenly over the bottom of the dish. Layer the cinnamon-coated apple slices over the crumble, spreading them out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the apples, ensuring the apples are fully covered.
- Add the Liquid Mixture: Slowly pour the egg and milk mixture over the top of the assembled cake. Make sure the liquid is evenly distributed, as it will soak into the crumble and apples during baking.
- Bake the Cake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be set but still slightly moist.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly in the pan. Serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar or topped with a dollop of whipped cream.
Enjoy: Indulge in the cozy, comforting flavors of this Lazy Apple Crumble Cake—a perfect blend of sweet apples, crunchy crumble, and creamy custard that’s sure to satisfy!