Golden Apple Cinnamon Streusel Cake

Welcome to the ultimate guide for crafting the most delectable Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake, a true masterpiece of fall baking. This recipe delivers an exceptionally moist apple cake, crowned with an irresistible crumbly topping made from butter, brown sugar, and aromatic cinnamon. What sets this recipe apart is its ingenious use of creamy yogurt as a substitute for traditional sour cream, ensuring a tender, airy texture that melts in your mouth.

As autumn leaves begin to fall and the air turns crisp, our kitchens beckon with the comforting aroma of warm spices and freshly baked goods. This Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake embodies the very essence of the season, making it a perfect treat for cozy mornings, afternoon coffee breaks, or a delightful dessert for family and friends. Its simple preparation belies a depth of flavor that will leave everyone asking for more. Get ready to fill your home with the intoxicating scent of cinnamon and baked apples!

For another delightful cinnamon-infused treat, explore this easy cinnamon cake roll.

This cinnamon apple crumb cake makes a wonderfully satisfying coffee cake, perfect for any time of day.

There’s nothing quite like the experience of baking an Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake during the vibrant fall season. It’s a time when many apple varieties, especially tart Granny Smiths, are at their peak, offering the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity for baking. This cake not only tastes incredibly good but also infuses your entire home with a warm, inviting aroma that is synonymous with comfort and joy. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s an experience.

Contents

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake

**An Easy Fall Dessert:** Don’t let its elegant appearance fool you; this crumb cake is surprisingly straightforward to prepare, making it ideal for busy bakers. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll return to again and again when you need a reliable and delicious treat for autumn gatherings.
**Great Use of Fresh Apples:** Capitalize on the abundance of fresh, seasonal apples. This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the crisp, sweet, and tart flavors that only fresh apples can provide, transforming them into a comforting baked good.
**Perfect for Lunchboxes:** Once cooled, this cake can be neatly cut into individual slices, wrapped, and tucked into lunchboxes for a delightful school or work treat. It holds up well, offering a sweet surprise that’s much appreciated.
**Versatile Topping Ideas:** While the classic crumb topping is heavenly, this cake also serves as a fantastic base for various other enhancements. From a simple dusting of powdered sugar to a luxurious caramel drizzle or a dollop of whipped cream, the possibilities are endless for customizing its presentation and flavor profile.

This easy-to-mix-together cake is the quintessential dessert for crisp fall mornings, perfectly complementing a hot cup of coffee shared with friends. It also makes for an incredibly satisfying after-dinner treat for the entire family. Whether you enjoy it plain, with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, a cloud of homemade whipped cream, or a decadent drizzle of warm caramel sauce, this cake promises a memorable culinary experience.

Essential Ingredients for Your Crumb Cake

Crafting this incredible Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake begins with a selection of simple, wholesome ingredients. The star of the show, of course, is fresh apples, which provide natural sweetness and a lovely texture. Granny Smith apples are often recommended for their tartness and ability to hold their shape during baking, preventing the cake from becoming watery. However, feel free to experiment with your favorite baking apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or even a mix for a more complex flavor. The use of full-fat yogurt is key to achieving that signature moistness and delicate crumb, offering a lighter alternative to sour cream without compromising on richness. Coupled with granulated sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract, these wet ingredients form the luscious cake batter.

The dry ingredients – all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and a touch of cinnamon – are carefully balanced to create a perfectly structured yet tender cake. And let’s not forget the crumb topping! This crunchy, sweet, and spiced layer is composed of brown sugar, more cinnamon, melted unsalted butter, and additional flour. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering a cake that is both wonderfully flavorful and texturally delightful. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing and baking results.

Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Apple Crumb Cake

Note: This section provides a concise overview of the instructions. For a detailed, printable recipe card with exact measurements and specific timings, please refer to the comprehensive recipe guide below.

**Prepare the Crumb Topping:** In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted unsalted butter. Stir these ingredients thoroughly until they are well integrated and fragrant.
**Form the Crumbs:** Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture. Mix with your fingertips or a fork until the ingredients come together to form distinct crumbs. The mixture should be clumpy and hold its shape when lightly pinched. Set this delicious crumb topping aside while you prepare the cake batter.

**Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a blender or a large mixing bowl, combine the full-fat yogurt, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, large eggs, and vanilla extract. Blend or whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and thoroughly combined. This ensures an even distribution of flavors and moisture throughout the cake.
**Prepare Dry Ingredients and Apples:** In a separate, generously sized bowl, measure out the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Whisk these dry ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed. Add the shredded apples to this bowl and toss gently to coat them with the dry mixture. This step helps prevent the apples from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking.
**Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:** Pour the blended wet ingredients over the apple-coated dry ingredients. Using a spatula, gently fold the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake. A few streaks of flour are acceptable.
**Assemble and Bake:** Pour the prepared cake batter evenly into your greased and floured (or parchment-lined) cake pan. Then, generously sprinkle the crumb topping over the entire surface of the batter, pressing it lightly into the batter. Bake according to the specific temperature and time recommendations provided in the detailed recipe card below, typically until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Expert Tips for a Flawless Crumb Cake

**Alternate Pan Sizes:** While a round cake pan is classic, this versatile recipe can also be baked in a square brownie-type pan. This allows for easy cutting into uniform squares, perfect for serving a crowd or packing for snacks. Adjust baking time as needed for different pan sizes – larger pans may require slightly less time, smaller pans slightly more.
**Springform Pan Convenience:** For effortless removal and a beautiful presentation, consider using a springform pan instead of a standard round cake pan. The removable sides make serving a breeze, especially when the cake is warm and delicate.
**Choosing Your Apples:** Don’t limit yourself to just one type of apple! While Granny Smith apples are excellent for their tartness and firm texture, a blend of varieties like Honeycrisp (for sweetness) and Fuji (for crispness) can add wonderful depth to your cake. Experiment to find your favorite combination, keeping in mind that softer apples may release more moisture.
**Simple Icing Perfection:** Elevate your crumb cake with a quick and easy sugar icing. Simply whisk powdered sugar with a small amount of milk or water until you reach your desired drizzling consistency. For an extra touch of flavor, incorporate a dash of vanilla extract or a hint of fresh lemon zest. This simple glaze adds a lovely finish without overpowering the cake’s natural flavors.
**Don’t Overmix the Batter:** When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until no dry streaks of flour remain. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to a denser, tougher cake. A light hand ensures a tender and moist crumb.
**Test for Doneness:** To ensure your cake is perfectly baked, insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, your cake is ready. If it’s wet, continue baking for a few more minutes and retest.

Storage Guidelines for Freshness

To maintain its incredible flavor and moist texture, leftover apple cinnamon crumb cake should be properly stored. Once completely cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place slices in an airtight container. It can then be kept in your refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, see our freezing tips in the FAQ section.

Serving Suggestions for Your Apple Crumb Cake

**Classic Drizzles:** A simple drizzle of sugar icing adds a touch of sweetness and elegance. Alternatively, a dollop of store-bought whipped topping or a luxurious homemade Chantilly cream offers a light, airy contrast to the rich cake.
**A Scoop of Bliss:** For the ultimate indulgence, serve a warm slice of crumb cake with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the warm cake and cold, melting ice cream is simply divine.
**Caramel Indulgence:** A creamy caramel sauce poured generously over the top before serving takes this dessert to an entirely new level. The sweet, buttery notes of caramel perfectly complement the spiced apples.
**Pair with Coffee or Tea:** This cake is designed to be the perfect companion to a freshly brewed cup of coffee, a soothing herbal tea, or even a glass of cold milk. It’s an ideal treat for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Crumb Cake

Can you freeze an apple crumb cake?

Absolutely! Freezing is an excellent way to preserve your apple cinnamon crumb cake for later enjoyment. Ensure the cake is completely cooled before wrapping it tightly in several layers of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Store it in your freezer for up to 3 to 4 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature, then warm gently in the oven if desired.

What is the difference between an apple crumb and an apple crisp?

While both apple crisps and crumbles feature baked apples topped with a streusel-like mixture, there’s a subtle distinction. An apple crisp typically includes oats in its topping, which become crispier during baking. An apple crumb, on the other hand, usually has a topping made from flour, butter, and sugar (often brown sugar), creating a rich, buttery, and more uniformly crumbly texture without oats. This particular recipe is a cake, meaning it has a moist, tender cake base with layers of apples, rather than just baked apples underneath, making it a more substantial dessert.

Does a crumb cake need to be refrigerated?

For optimal freshness and to prevent spoilage, it is highly recommended to refrigerate your apple cinnamon crumb cake. While it can safely be kept on your counter for a day or two at room temperature, particularly in cooler environments, storing it in the refrigerator will significantly extend its shelf life, keeping it moist and delicious for up to 5 days.

What kind of yogurt is best for this cake?

For the best results and a truly moist crumb, we recommend using full-fat plain yogurt. Its richness and creamy texture contribute significantly to the cake’s tender consistency. While Greek yogurt can be used, it might make the batter slightly thicker; you may need to add a touch more oil or milk to achieve the desired consistency. Avoid flavored yogurts as they can alter the cinnamon-apple flavor profile.

Can I use frozen apples?

While fresh apples are preferred for their texture, you can use frozen apples if necessary. If using frozen shredded or diced apples, make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid thoroughly before adding them to the batter. This step is crucial to prevent the cake from becoming too wet or dense.

Discover More Related Recipes

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Apple Desserts You Absolutely Need to Try

Apple Strudel with Phyllo: An easy-to-follow recipe for crafting delicious, flaky apple strudel using delicate phyllo dough. It’s an ideal dessert for holiday parties or heartwarming family gatherings.
Apple Pie in Phyllo Crust: Savor all the classic apple pie flavors you love, but without the fuss of traditional pastry. This delightful pie uses a crisp phyllo crust for a lighter, quicker take on a beloved classic.
Apple Cream Cheese Bundt Cake: This bundt cake boasts a soft, tender texture and a wonderfully moist crumb, infused with warm spices and cream cheese. It’s absolutely perfect for fall or winter desserts.
Easy Fall Cakes: Embrace the season’s best flavors with these simple yet satisfying fall cake recipes. From moist bundt cakes and decadent apple crumbles to sweet potato and elegant layer cakes, you’ll find everything to satisfy your autumn baking needs.

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A slice of apple crumb cake being served, showing its delicious layers.

Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake

A fancy yet wonderfully easy apple cake, beautifully fragranced with cinnamon, making it the ultimate fall dessert. Serve it plain or with a delightful caramel sauce on the side.

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Prep Time:

45

Cook Time:

50

Total Time:

1 35

Servings:

10 servings

Calories:

600kcal

Author:
Amira

Ingredients

1 cup oil 235ml
1 cup granulated sugar 200g
1 cup full-fat yogurt 225g
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour 240g
2½ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 medium apples peeled and shredded, about 2 cups or 200g

For the crumb topping:

½ cup brown sugar 65g
2 teaspoons cinnamon
8 Tablespoons unsalted butter melted
1½ cups all-purpose flour 180g

Instructions

Make the crumb topping:

In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
Add flour to the mixture and continue to mix with your fingers or a fork until the mixture forms distinct, clumpy crumbs that hold together when pinched.
Set the crumb topping aside while you prepare the cake batter.

Make the cake:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 10-inch round cake pan by greasing it thoroughly and lining the bottom and sides with a large piece of parchment paper, ensuring the paper hangs over the sides for easy removal.
In a blender, combine the yogurt, granulated sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well-incorporated.
In a separate large bowl, add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Whisk these dry ingredients together to ensure even distribution. Add the shredded apples and toss them gently to coat.
Pour the wet ingredients mixture over the dry ingredients and apples. Using a spatula, mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are fine.
Spread the cake mixture evenly into the prepared cake pan.
Evenly spread the reserved crumb topping over the batter, pressing it lightly into the surface.
Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before attempting to remove it.
Carefully transfer the cake to a wire rack and let it cool completely for at least 30 minutes more before slicing and serving. This allows the cake to set and prevents it from crumbling.

Notes

This apple cinnamon crumb cake can also be made in a square brownie-type pan and neatly cut into squares for easy serving.
For effortless removal and elegant presentation, a springform pan can be used in place of a standard round cake pan.
Feel free to use any variety of apples you prefer for baking, or even a delightful combination. We particularly love the tartness and firm texture of Granny Smith apples in this recipe.
A quick and simple sugar icing can be prepared by mixing powdered sugar with a small amount of milk or water until the desired drizzling consistency is achieved. Enhance the flavor with a touch of vanilla extract or fresh lemon zest.

Serve with:

Apple crumb cake is wonderfully served with a delicate drizzle of sugar icing, a generous dollop of store-bought whipped topping, or a cloud of luxurious homemade Chantilly cream.
To elevate your dessert experience, pair a warm slice with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream.
A rich, creamy caramel sauce can be poured generously over the top just before serving for an extra layer of indulgence.

Storage:

Leftover apple cinnamon crumb cake can be securely wrapped and stored in your refrigerator for up to 5 days, maintaining its delightful moisture and flavor.

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Nutrition

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