Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake

Are you ready for fall baking? Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake is the perfect dessert for crisp weather. This delightful cake combines tender apples with a rich crumb topping, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings, holidays, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee. Its warm spices and comforting texture will surely impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and fresh apples creates a mouthwatering taste that evokes warmth.
• Versatile Dessert: Great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this cake fits perfectly into any occasion.
• Moist and Tender: The sour cream adds moisture, ensuring every bite is soft and satisfying.
• Beautiful Presentation: The crumb topping not only tastes great but also gives the cake a lovely appearance that’s perfect for serving.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gathering your tools will make the process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8 inch springform pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Electric mixer (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 8 inch springform pan: Allows for easy removal of the cake while keeping its shape intact.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing dry ingredients and achieving a uniform batter.
• Electric mixer (optional): Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar.

Ingredients

To make your delicious Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cake Base

• 1 and 1/2 cups flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 cup butter – melted
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 large (or 2 small) tart apples – peeled and chopped

For the Crumb Topping

• 4 Tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

For the Batter

• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

For the Glaze

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 and 1/2 – 2 Tablespoons apple cider

How to Make Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease an 8-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. Set it aside to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Streusel Crumb

In a bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients for the crumb topping. Then add melted butter and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is evenly moist. Set this aside while you prepare the cake batter.

Step 3: Prepare the Cake Mixture

In a large bowl, cream together 4 tablespoons of butter with 1/2 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Add in one egg and beat well. Finally, mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, stir together 1 cup of flour, baking soda, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mix to the butter mixture. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake Layers

Spread half of the batter at the bottom of your prepared pan (it will be a thin layer). Evenly distribute apple chunks over this layer. Sprinkle about one cup of your cinnamon streusel crumbs over top of the apples. Next, spread the remaining batter over these crumbs followed by sprinkling on any leftover streusel.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place your cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes or until a tester inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, run a thin knife around the edge before removing the ring from your springform pan to ensure a clean release.

Step 8: Drizzle with Glaze

To make a simple glaze, whisk together powdered sugar with apple cider until smooth. Drizzle this mixture over your cooled cake before slicing into it.

Now you have your very own Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake

Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake is a delightful dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. Serving it with the right accompaniments can elevate your experience even further.

With Whipped Cream

• A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light, creamy texture that perfectly complements the cake’s crumbly topping.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• Warm slices served with vanilla ice cream create a delicious contrast of temperatures and flavors, enhancing the cinnamon notes.

With Caramel Sauce

• Drizzling caramel sauce over each slice adds a sweet, buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the apples and cinnamon.

With Fresh Fruit

• Slices of fresh fruit like pears or berries can provide a refreshing balance to the rich cake, adding color and additional flavor.

How to Perfect Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake

Achieving the ideal Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips for perfecting your bake.

• Choose the right apples – Tart apples like Granny Smith work best as they hold their shape and balance out the sweetness.
• Don’t overmix – Mix until just combined to keep your cake tender and fluffy; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Use room temperature ingredients – Room temperature butter, eggs, and sour cream incorporate better and help create a lighter cake.
• Check baking time – Every oven is different; start checking for doneness at the 35-minute mark to avoid overbaking.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake

Pairing your Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake with side dishes can enhance its flavors and provide a satisfying meal experience.

1. Coffee – A warm cup of coffee complements the spice in the cake, making it a perfect breakfast or afternoon treat.
2. Tea – Herbal or spiced teas offer a soothing contrast, enhancing the cake’s cinnamon flavor without overpowering it.
3. Yogurt Parfait – Layered yogurt with granola and fruits adds creaminess and crunch, balancing out the crumbly texture.
4. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad introduces freshness, making it an excellent complement to the rich flavors of the cake.
5. Cheese Plate – A selection of mild cheeses can add savory notes that pair well with sweet desserts.
6. Nut Mix – A simple nut mix provides crunch and healthy fats while complementing the sweetness of the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for when making Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake.

• Skipping the Parchment Paper: Not using parchment paper can lead to sticking. Always line your pan for easy removal.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a light texture.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect the batter’s consistency. Always use room temperature ingredients for the best results.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: An oven that’s too hot or too cold can ruin your cake. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking conditions.
• Not Testing for Doneness: Cutting into the cake too early can ruin its structure. Use a toothpick to check if it comes out clean before taking it out of the oven.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm the cake for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 30-45 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake.

Can I use different types of apples in this recipe?

Yes, you can use any tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a delicious flavor contrast.

How do I customize my Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake?

Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor!

Is there an alternative to sour cream?

You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt if preferred.

What makes this Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake special?

The combination of cinnamon-spiced apples and crumbly streusel topping creates an irresistible dessert perfect for any occasion.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake is a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. With its moist texture and sweet apple filling, it’s versatile enough for breakfast or dessert. Feel free to experiment with different fruit toppings or nuts based on your taste!