Heavenly Apple Crumb Cake: A Perfect Blend of Spices and Sweetness

Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Heavenly Apple Crumb Cake. With a tender and moist cake base, topped with spiced apples and a buttery crumb topping, this cake is the epitome of comfort and elegance. The combination of soft, cinnamon-infused apples and the crunchy, sweet crumble creates a symphony of textures that will leave you craving more. Finished with a luscious vanilla icing drizzle, this cake is perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This: This Apple Crumb Cake is a true delight for the senses. The cake itself is wonderfully soft and moist, thanks to the addition of sour cream and whole milk. The apple layer adds a fresh, fruity flavor, perfectly complemented by the warm spices. The crumb topping is buttery and crisp, providing a perfect contrast to the tender cake. The vanilla icing drizzle adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish to this already delectable cake. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a new favorite recipe, this cake will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Perfect Occasion: This cake is ideal for any gathering where you want to impress your guests with a homemade dessert. It’s perfect for family dinners, holiday celebrations, brunches, or as a special treat to enjoy with your afternoon coffee or tea. Its beautiful presentation and delicious flavor make it a standout dessert that will leave a lasting impression. Additionally, it makes a fantastic gift when you want to share a little homemade love with friends and family.

Decoration Tips: For a professional finish, drizzle the cooled cake with vanilla icing in a zigzag pattern. You can also sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar over the top for added elegance. If you want to add a touch of color, consider garnishing with a few thin apple slices or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. Serve the cake on a decorative platter or cake stand to enhance its visual appeal and make it the centerpiece of your dessert table.

Apples:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 cups chopped apples (1/2” pieces)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped apples, sugar, and cinnamon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender, about 10 minutes. Allow the apples to cool to room temperature.

Crumb Topping:

• 1 cup (4 1/2 oz) all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup (2 3/8 oz) brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 6 tablespoons cold butter, cubed

1. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Work the cold butter into the mixture with your fingertips until it resembles wet sand. Press together to form 1/2-inch chunks. Set aside.

Cake:

• 1 2/3 cups (7 1/2 oz) all-purpose flour, sifted
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/2 cup (4 oz) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (7 oz) sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/3 cup sour cream

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line a 9-inch springform pan or a 9-inch cake pan with a removable bottom with parchment paper. Wrap the bottom with aluminum foil and place the pan on a baking sheet.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, baking powder, and fine sea salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract in three separate additions, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the whole milk and sour cream.
6. On low speed, add the flour mixture to the batter in three additions, alternating with the milk mixture. Beat just until combined.
7. Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan. Drain any excess liquid from the cooked apples and top the cake batter evenly with the apples, followed by the crumb topping.
8. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 55-60 minutes. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove from the pan and let cool completely.

Icing:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons half-and-half cream (adjust as needed for desired consistency)

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, pinch of salt, and half-and-half cream until smooth. Adjust the cream as needed to reach the desired consistency.
2. Drizzle the icing over the cooled cake.

Enjoy!