Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle is a delightful dessert that combines the warmth of baked apples with a buttery crumb topping and a sweet cinnamon drizzle. Perfect for family gatherings, brunches, or just a cozy night at home, this cake is sure to impress. Its unique combination of flavors makes it a standout choice among traditional desserts, ensuring that every bite is filled with deliciousness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and apples creates a warm, inviting taste that’s hard to resist.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with ice cream, or enjoy it as an afternoon snack with coffee or tea.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a casual gathering, this cake fits right in.
- Homemade Goodness: Using fresh apples adds natural sweetness and texture that store-bought desserts often lack.
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here are the key items you’ll need to prepare the Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Baking pan (9-inch square or round)
- Small saucepan
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
- Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the batter for a fluffy texture.
- Baking pan: Provides the shape for your cake; choose one that transfers heat evenly.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 cups peeled, diced apples
For the Crumb Topping:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup flour
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ cup cold butter, cubed
For the Cinnamon Apple Drizzle:
- 1 apple, peeled and finely diced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ cup water
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square or round baking pan to ensure easy removal once baked.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the following ingredients until well combined:
1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1½ tsp baking powder
3. ½ tsp baking soda
4. ½ tsp salt
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, cream together:
1. ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2. 1 cup granulated sugar
Continue mixing until light and fluffy. Add in:
3. Two eggs (one at a time)
4. One teaspoon of vanilla extract
5. Half a cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture until just combined. Carefully fold in:
– Two cups of peeled, diced apples.
Step 5: Pour Batter into Pan
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly across the bottom.
Step 6: Make the Crumb Topping
In a separate bowl, mix together:
1. ½ cup brown sugar
2. ½ cup flour
3. 1 tsp cinnamon
Cut in:
– A quarter cup of cold butter (cubed) until crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture over your cake batter evenly.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for approximately 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool before serving.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
Step 8: Prepare Drizzle
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine:
1. One peeled and finely diced apple
2. Two tablespoons of butter
3. Two tablespoons of brown sugar
4. Half a teaspoon of cinnamon
5. A quarter cup of water
Cook until apples are soft and mixture thickens slightly (about 5–7 minutes).
Step 9: Drizzle Over Cake
Once cooled, drizzle this mixture over your cake before serving for an extra burst of flavor!
How to Serve Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
Serving Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle can elevate any occasion, from a cozy family gathering to a festive celebration. This delicious dessert pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and textures.
Top with Whipped Cream
- A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the dense cake, making each bite delightful.
Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream
- The creaminess of vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices in the cake and provides a refreshing balance.
Pair with Coffee or Tea
- Enjoying a slice of cake with a cup of coffee or tea can enhance the flavors and make for a comforting afternoon treat.
Add Fresh Fruit Slices
- Fresh apple slices or berries on the side can offer a refreshing crunch and additional fruitiness alongside the cake.
Drizzle Extra Cinnamon Sauce
- For those who love extra flavor, drizzling additional cinnamon apple sauce over each slice will amplify the dish’s sweetness and spice.
Garnish with Toasted Nuts
- Sprinkling some toasted pecans or walnuts on top adds a crunchy texture that pairs well with the soft cake.
How to Perfect Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
To ensure your Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.
- Use Fresh Apples: Choose crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith for a great balance of flavor in your cake.
- Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use precise measurements for flour and sugar to maintain the right texture in your crumb cake.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix only until combined to avoid toughening the cake; this keeps it light and fluffy.
- Cool Completely Before Serving: Allowing the cake to cool helps set the flavors and makes it easier to cut clean slices.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add different toppings or drizzles based on your preference; caramel sauce is another delicious option.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers covered at room temperature for up to two days for optimal freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
Pairing side dishes with your Apple Crumb Cake can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this delightful dessert beautifully.
- Vanilla Yogurt: A creamy yogurt adds tanginess that balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and contrasts nicely against the rich flavors of the cake.
- Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like Brie or sharp cheddar offer an interesting savory option alongside dessert.
- Chai-Spiced Nuts: Spiced nuts bring warmth and crunch, enhancing the overall flavor experience while also providing healthy fats.
- Caramelized Pears: Sweet, caramelized pears are a luxurious addition that pairs wonderfully with apple flavors.
- Classic Coleslaw: A tangy slaw can provide a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness of the cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making an Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can ruin the fun. Here are key pitfalls to avoid.
- Using the wrong apple variety: Not all apples work well in baking. Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor and texture.
- Skipping the sour cream or yogurt: These ingredients add moisture and richness. Omitting them can lead to a dry cake.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the cake tough. Combine ingredients just until moistened for a light texture.
- Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Always check your cake a few minutes before the suggested time to prevent overbaking.
- Not letting it cool properly: Cutting into a warm cake can lead to crumbling. Allow it to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before serving.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store the cake in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
- Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-30 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Heat slices in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering with a lid. This method keeps the cake moist while warming it through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
You can use various apples, but firmer varieties are better suited for baking. Try Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for great results.
How do I make this Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring you have equal measures.
Can I add nuts to my Apple Crumb Cake?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts can be added either in the batter or as part of the crumb topping for extra crunch.
How long does it take to bake this cake?
Bake your Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle is not only delicious but also versatile! You can adjust toppings and mix-ins according to your preferences. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying an everyday treat, this cake is sure to impress. Give it a try, and don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!
Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle is a scrumptious dessert that perfectly balances the sweetness of baked apples and the warmth of cinnamon in a fluffy crumb topping. Ideal for any occasion—from family gatherings to cozy evenings at home—this cake guarantees to impress everyone at the table. With its inviting aroma and delightful flavors, each bite offers a comforting experience that’s hard to resist. The delicious cinnamon apple drizzle adds an extra layer of flavor, making this dessert irresistible.
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately eight slices 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 cups peeled, diced apples
- For Crumb Topping: ½ cup brown sugar, ½ cup flour, 1 tsp cinnamon, ¼ cup cold butter (cubed)
- For Cinnamon Apple Drizzle: 1 apple (peeled and finely diced), 2 tbsp butter, 2 tbsp brown sugar, ½ tsp cinnamon, ¼ cup water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract and sour cream.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed; gently fold in diced apples.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan.
- For the crumb topping, mix brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a separate bowl; cut in cold butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over the batter.
- Bake for approximately 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Prepare the drizzle by cooking diced apple with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and water until thickened; drizzle over cooled cake before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 38mg
Keywords: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for best results. Don't overmix the batter to maintain fluffiness. Cool the cake completely before cutting to avoid crumbling.
