Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle

Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle is a delightful treat that combines the sweet and tart flavors of fresh apples with a crumbly topping and a luscious drizzle. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is ideal for family gatherings, brunches, or simply as an afternoon snack. The standout feature of this recipe is the warm cinnamon apple drizzle that elevates the cake to new heights, making it a beloved choice among dessert lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apples, cinnamon, and a crumbly topping creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack throughout the day.
• Perfect for Sharing: Bake this cake to impress friends and family at gatherings or potlucks.
• Moist Texture: The addition of sour cream or Greek yogurt ensures every bite is moist and flavorful.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will help streamline the baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch square or round baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Electric mixer (optional)
• Small saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pan: A good quality baking pan ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
• Mixing Bowls: Having multiple bowls allows for easy mixing of dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Electric Mixer: Though optional, an electric mixer can make creaming butter and sugar quicker and easier.

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

How to Make Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square or round baking pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together:
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:
1. Cream together ½ cup unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in eggs one at a time.
3. Mix in 1 tsp vanilla extract and ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture:
1. Fold in 2 cups peeled, diced apples gently until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Pour Batter Into Pan

Pour batter into prepared pan:
1. Spread evenly across the bottom.

Step 6: Make Crumb Topping

For the crumb topping:
1. In a separate bowl, mix together ½ cup brown sugar, ½ cup flour, and 1 tsp cinnamon.
2. Cut in ¼ cup cold butter until mixture becomes crumbly.
3. Sprinkle over the cake batter evenly.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Bake for 40–45 minutes:
1. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
2. Allow cake to cool in the pan before serving.

Step 8: Prepare Cinnamon Apple Drizzle

To make the drizzle:
1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine:
– Diced apple,
– 2 tbsp butter,
– 2 tbsp brown sugar,
– ½ tsp cinnamon,
– ¼ cup water.
2. Cook until apples are soft and mixture thickens slightly (about 5–7 minutes).

Step 9: Drizzle Over Cake

Once cooled, drizzle the warm cinnamon apple mixture over your cake before serving for an extra touch of flavor!

How to Serve Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle

Serving your Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle can enhance its delightful flavors and textures. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make it even more enjoyable.

Classic Coffee Pairing

• Serve a slice of cake alongside a hot cup of coffee for a comforting afternoon break.

À la Mode

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of the warm cake for a delicious contrast between hot and cold.

Whipped Cream Delight

• Top each slice with freshly whipped cream for an extra layer of creaminess that complements the cake.

Nutty Crunch

• Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added texture and a nutty flavor that pairs well with apples.

Fruit Salad Side

• Serve with a light fruit salad for a refreshing contrast, enhancing the fruity notes of the cake.

Drizzle Extra Sauce

• Offer additional Cinnamon Apple Drizzle on the side for those who prefer an extra burst of flavor.

How to Perfect Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle

Achieving the perfect Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh apples: Fresh, crisp apples will provide the best flavor and texture in your cake.
• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffiness.
• Don’t overmix: Gently fold in the apples and dry ingredients to avoid toughening the cake.
• Check doneness carefully: Use a toothpick to test for doneness; it should come out clean but not dry.
• Let it cool completely: Allow the cake to cool before adding the drizzle to prevent it from melting into the cake.
• Experiment with spices: Try different spices like nutmeg or cardamom in your crumb topping for unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A classic pairing that enhances the flavors of apple and cinnamon in your cake.

2. Chocolate Sauce
   A drizzle of rich chocolate sauce can add an indulgent touch to each slice.

3. Caramel Sauce
   Sweet caramel complements the cinnamon apple flavors beautifully, creating a decadent treat.

4. Fresh Berries
   A mix of strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries adds brightness and acidity that balances sweetness.

5. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a light side dish that contrasts nicely with the richness of the cake.

6. Tea Selection
   Offering a variety of teas, especially herbal or spiced options, can enhance your dessert experience.

7. Cheese Plate
   A selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese pairs well with sweet desserts like this cake.

8. Nut Medley
   A mix of roasted nuts provides crunch and complements the soft textures in your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and a fluffier texture.
• Not measuring accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure the right balance of ingredients, as this impacts the final cake.
• Skipping the crumb topping: This layer adds texture and flavor. Don’t skip it; follow the instructions for a perfect crumb topping.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light one.
• Not cooling before serving: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the drizzle. This prevents it from melting into the cake.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The cake will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of apples are best for Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle?

You can use tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet apples like Honeycrisp. Choose based on your preference!

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake it a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve.

How do I add nuts to my Apple Crumb Cake?

Feel free to mix in chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter or as part of the crumb topping for added crunch.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and adjust as necessary.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts, using different spices, or even swapping out apples based on what’s available. Enjoy making this comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!

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Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle

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Treat yourself to a slice of homemade Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle, a delightful dessert that perfectly marries the sweet and tart flavors of fresh apples with a buttery crumb topping. This cake is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for any occasion—be it a cozy brunch, family gathering, or an afternoon snack. With the warm and fragrant cinnamon apple drizzle drizzled on top, each bite delivers a comforting experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 12 slices 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• ½ cup brown sugar (for crumb topping)
• ½ cup flour (for crumb topping)
• 1 tsp cinnamon (for crumb topping)
• ¼ cup cold butter (for crumb topping)
• 1 apple (for cinnamon drizzle)
• 2 tbsp butter (for cinnamon drizzle)
• 2 tbsp brown sugar (for cinnamon drizzle)
• ½ tsp cinnamon (for cinnamon drizzle)
• ¼ cup water (for cinnamon drizzle)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch baking pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and sour cream/yogurt.
4. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture before adding the diced apples.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle with crumb topping made from brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and cold butter.
6. Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Prepare the cinnamon apple drizzle by cooking diced apples with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and water until soft.
8. Drizzle the warm mixture over cooled cake before serving.

• Author: Stephanie
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Use fresh apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for optimal flavor. Allow your ingredients to reach room temperature for better mixing results. Feel free to add nuts to the batter or topping for an extra crunch.