Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle Recipe

If you are searching for a truly irresistible treat to brighten up any afternoon or impress your guests at a cozy gathering, the Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle is an absolute must-try. This delightful cake combines tender, moist crumb studded with tart apple chunks and a buttery, cinnamon-spiced crumb topping, all crowned with a luscious drizzle that perfectly balances sweet and warm flavors. Every bite feels like a comforting hug, brimming with the best tastes of fall, yet so simple to make that it can quickly become your favorite homemade indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind the Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle lies in using a handful of straightforward, well-chosen ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each element plays an important role: the tartness of the apples, the warm spice of cinnamon, the richness of butter, and the creamy tang of sour cream all work harmoniously to create a complex, inviting flavor and perfect texture.

• All-purpose flour: The base for the cake and crumb, providing structure and a tender crumb.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Key leavening agents that help the cake rise beautifully.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds that unmistakable warm, cozy spice that deepens the apple flavor.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness and richness perfectly.
• Unsalted butter: Used in both batter and topping, giving the cake a moist richness and crisp crumb topping.
• Granulated sugar and brown sugar: Sweeten the cake and topping with subtle caramel notes.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
• Vanilla extract: Offers a fragrant background note that complements the apples and cinnamon.
• Sour cream: Keeps the cake moist and tender while adding a slight tang.
• Apples (preferably Granny Smith): Provide moisture, sweetness, and a delightful tart bite.
• Milk (for the drizzle): Creates a smooth texture for the cinnamon apple drizzle.

How to Make Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing a 9×9-inch baking pan by greasing and flouring it or lining it with parchment paper. Next, whisk together all the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl to ensure even distribution of flavors and leavening.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer or a whisk to cream the softened butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step adds air to the batter, helping create that tender crumb we all adore in cakes.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully mixed before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with a subtle, sweet aroma that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients in batches, alternating with the sour cream—starting and ending with dry ingredients. This alternating method ensures your batter remains light and moist without overmixing, which can make the cake dense and heavy.

Step 5: Fold in the Apples

Gently fold in the chopped apples, making sure they are evenly distributed but not mashed. These apple pieces will create bursts of fresh, tart flavor and juicy moisture inside every bite.

Step 6: Prepare the Crumb Topping

Mix the flour, cinnamon, salt, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a separate bowl. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with little butter lumps the size of peas. This topping will bake into a wonderfully crisp and buttery contrast to the soft cake beneath.

Step 7: Assemble and Bake

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan, then generously sprinkle the crumb topping over the surface. Bake in your preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs stuck to it. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 to 20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Cinnamon Apple Drizzle

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, milk, and a pinch of salt, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes while stirring until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved. Drizzle this warm, comforting sauce over your cooled cake or offer it on the side so everyone can enjoy its luscious flavor.

How to Serve Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle

Garnishes

A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top elevates the warmth and sweetness of the cake dramatically. The creamy coolness contrasts beautifully with the crunchy crumb topping and the cinnamon-spiced drizzle.

Side Dishes

Pair your Apple Crumb Cake with freshly brewed coffee, chai tea, or even a spiced herbal tea to create an inviting dessert experience. The drink balances the sweetness, making every bite feel even more special.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the cake in rustic slices on wooden platters for a cozy fall gathering or dress it up on fine china for holiday celebrations. For a fun twist, cut the cake into mini squares and drizzle each with a bit of cinnamon apple sauce for bite-sized delights that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to five days to preserve freshness and prevent sogginess.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place in an airtight container, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

Warm individual slices gently in a microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or place the whole cake in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Reheating brings back that fresh-baked warmth and helps the cinnamon apple drizzle become wonderfully gooey.

FAQs

What type of apples work best for this cake?

Granny Smith apples are ideal due to their tartness, which balances the sweetness and adds a fresh, crisp texture. However, you can also try Honeycrisp or Braeburn apples depending on your taste preference.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum for the best texture and structure.

Is it possible to prepare the crumb topping ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the crumb topping ingredients and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure the butter stays cold to maintain the perfect crumbly texture.

Can I omit the sour cream or replace it?

If you don’t have sour cream, plain yogurt or buttermilk is a great substitute that will keep the cake moist and tender.

How long does the cinnamon apple drizzle stay good?

You can store the drizzle in a sealed container in the fridge for up to one week. Reheat gently before serving to restore its silky consistency.

Final Thoughts

Making the Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle is like bringing a slice of homemade goodness straight to your kitchen table. The combination of tender apples, spicy cinnamon, and a buttery crumb topping covered with a rich drizzle is sure to become a treasured recipe in your collection. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply to brighten your day, this cake promises warm smiles and happy hearts.

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