Craving a warm, cozy dessert that perfectly balances sweetness with spice? Look no further than my delightful Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Drizzle! This treat blends tender apples and a buttery crumb topping, all drizzled with a sweet cinnamon glaze. Whether it’s for brunch or a special occasion, this cake will impress everyone. Get ready to learn how to create a comforting dessert that’s simple yet extraordinary!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 cups apples, peeled and diced (about 2 medium apples)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Crumb Topping Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cinnamon Drizzle Ingredients
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 tbsp milk
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
The ingredients for the Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Drizzle are key to its flavor and texture.
You start with two cups of all-purpose flour. This gives the cake its base. You will also need a mix of sugars: half a cup each of granulated and packed brown sugar. These add sweetness and moisture.
Next, you need baking powder and baking soda. These leaven the cake, making it rise. Don’t forget the salt to enhance all the flavors. One teaspoon of ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice.
For the wet ingredients, you will use half a cup of softened unsalted butter. This keeps the cake moist. Two large eggs help bind everything together. You will also need one cup of buttermilk, which adds tanginess and richness.
The stars of the show are the two cups of apples. Peel and dice them to mix into the batter. If you like, you can add half a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
For the crumb topping, mix one cup of flour, half a cup of packed brown sugar, and half a teaspoon of cinnamon with a quarter cup of melted butter. This will create a wonderful, crumbly layer on top.
Finally, for the cinnamon drizzle, whisk together half a cup of powdered sugar, one tablespoon of milk, and half a teaspoon of cinnamon. This drizzle adds a sweet finish to your cake.
Gather all these ingredients, and you are ready to bake a delightful apple crumb cake!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray.
Make the Batter
– In a large bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1 tsp ground cinnamon. Mix well with a whisk.
– In another bowl, cream 1/2 cup softened butter until light and fluffy. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each.
– Pour in 1 cup of buttermilk and mix until smooth. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Fold in Apples and Nuts
– Gently fold in 2 cups of peeled and diced apples. If you like, add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
Prepare the Crumb Topping
– In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 cup melted butter. Stir until the mixture is crumbly.
Assemble and Bake
– Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the batter.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick. It should come out clean.
Make the Cinnamon Drizzle
– While the cake bakes, whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 tbsp milk, and 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon in a bowl. Adjust the thickness with more milk if needed.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Crust
– Avoid overmixing batter for a light texture. This helps keep your cake fluffy.
– Use room temperature ingredients for best results. It mixes better and bakes evenly.
Flavor Enhancements
– Experiment with different apple varieties for varied flavors. Try tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet ones like Fuji.
– Add vanilla extract for extra sweetness. Just a teaspoon can make a big difference.
Presentation Suggestions
– Serve on a cake stand with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. This adds a nice touch to your dessert.
– Garnish with apple slices for visual appeal. Fresh slices look great and taste good too!
Variations
Gluten-Free Option
You can make this cake gluten-free. Just swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. This change keeps the cake light and tasty. Always check the blend for the best results.
Vegan Adaptation
To make the cake vegan, use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk. For eggs, applesauce or flaxseed meal works well. Just mix one tablespoon of flaxseed with three tablespoons of water to replace one egg. This keeps the cake moist and fluffy.
Different Toppings
Mix things up with different toppings. You can add a crunchy streusel topping or drizzle some caramel on top. Both options add flavor and fun to the cake. Try them out to see which you like best!
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
Store your apple crumb cake in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps it fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure the cake is completely cool before sealing it. This helps avoid sogginess.
Long-Term Storage
For longer storage, refrigerate the cake. It stays good for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and use a freezer bag for best results.
Reheating Tips
To enjoy your cake warm, reheat slices in the microwave. Heat for about 15-20 seconds. If you prefer the oven, set it to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cake for about 10 minutes. This helps the flavors shine again.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes! You can swap apples for pears or berries. Both fruits work great in this cake. They add a nice flavor and moisture.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check if the cake is done, use a toothpick. Insert it into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready. If not, give it a few more minutes.
What can I serve with apple crumb cake?
This cake pairs well with whipped cream or ice cream. A drizzle of caramel also makes it special. You can even serve it with a hot cup of coffee. Enjoy!
In this post, we explored how to make a delicious apple crumb cake. You learned about the main ingredients, crumb topping, and cinnamon drizzle. I also shared step-by-step instructions and helpful tips for the best results. Remember, you can adjust flavors or try variations to suit your taste. This dessert is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Enjoy baking and sharing it with others!
