Introduction to Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
As a passionate home cook, I find comfort in baking, especially when it comes to making my Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle. This delightful cake offers the perfect blend of sweet and tart, making it a fabulous go-to dessert for any busy day. Whether you’re whipping it up for a family gathering or just to brighten a Tuesday afternoon, this recipe will surely impress your loved ones. Trust me, each bite feels like a warm hug, bringing joy and a sprinkle of happiness to your table!
Why You’ll Love This Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
This Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle is truly a winner. It’s a breeze to make and calls for simple ingredients you likely have on hand. In just an hour, you can create a delightful dessert that impresses everyone. The irresistible cinnamon aroma wafting through your home will make it feel like a cozy haven. Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion—just make it and watch smiles bloom all around!
Ingredients for Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
When making my Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle, I love how each ingredient brings its unique charm to the table. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: The foundation for your cake, providing structure and tenderness.
- Baking powder and baking soda: These are essential leaveners that help your cake rise beautifully.
- Ground cinnamon: This spice adds warmth and that cozy aroma that feels like home.
- Salt: A pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors perfectly.
- Unsalted butter: Softened butter gives your cake a rich, moist texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetness is key here, balancing the tartness of the apples.
- Eggs: They provide structure and richness while helping the cake rise.
- Vanilla extract: A splash adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Sour cream: This ingredient makes the cake incredibly moist and tender.
- Chopped apples: Choose some Granny Smith apples for a perfect blend of sweet and tart.
- Crumb topping ingredients: More flour, brown sugar, and butter for that irresistible crispy layer!
- Cinnamon and salt (for the crumb topping): These spices keep things consistent and delicious.
- Drizzle ingredients: A mixture of butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and milk for that delightful finishing touch.
If you want to make substitutions, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream, lending a tangy flavor. Feel free to switch up the apples for whatever you have on hand, but make sure they’re firm for the best results. Check out the end of this article for exact measurements; they’re available for printing!
How to Make Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly and beautifully. While it’s warming up, grab a 9×9-inch baking pan. You can either grease it generously with butter or oil or line it with parchment paper. I love using parchment paper because it makes removing the cake a breeze. If you’re short on time, this step is a must! Take a moment to prepare your pan, and trust me, it’s worth it to avoid sticking later on!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, toss together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Using a whisk, mix them well to distribute the leavening agents evenly. This step creates a uniform rise throughout your cake. I like to sneak in a little dance while whisking; it makes the process more fun! Set the bowl aside for now, as we’ll bring these dry ingredients together with the wet ones shortly. Your kitchen will soon be filled with delightful aromas!
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Now, let’s get to the fun part—creaming the butter and sugar! In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to blend these two ingredients until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This aeration is crucial for making your cake tender and delightful. It’s like giving your cake a cozy home! Just make sure the butter is genuinely softened; cold butter won’t create the right texture.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Next up, it’s time to add the eggs! Crack them in one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps the eggs incorporate smoothly into the batter, promoting that perfect fluffiness. After you’ve added the eggs, stir in the vanilla extract for that wonderful depth of flavor. I mean, who doesn’t love the smell of vanilla wafting through the kitchen? It’s like a warm hug, making your dessert extra inviting and delicious!
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, it’s time to unite our ingredients! Gradually add the dry mixture to your bowl while alternating with the sour cream. Start with a scoop of the dry mix. Follow it with a spoonful of sour cream and repeat, finishing with dry ingredients. Mixing just until incorporated is key—overmixing can lead to a dense cake. We want tender fluffiness here, not a brick! Gently fold in the ingredients with a spatula to keep that light texture. Your batter will come together shortly!
Step 6: Fold in Apples
Lastly, let’s mix in those beautiful chopped apples. Gently fold them into the batter, being careful not to overwork the mixture. Careful folding ensures every delightful apple piece remains intact. Plus, it keeps your batter airy! The last thing we want is a heavy cake. As you fold, picture how wonderful this cake will taste with each juicy bite of apple, coated in that cinnamon goodness. Get ready for something special!
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Don’t skip the parchment paper for easy removal!
- Measure your flour correctly; spoon it into the measuring cup, then level off.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it.
- Top with the drizzle while the cake is still warm for better adhesion.
- Experiment with different apple varieties for unique flavors.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls: Use standard or large bowls to hold your ingredients.
- Hand mixer or stand mixer: A whisk works too, but a mixer saves time.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
- 9×9-inch baking pan: You can use a round pan if you prefer!
- Parchment paper: Makes removing the cake easier and cleaner.
Variations of Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumb topping for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Spiced Up: Sprinkle in some nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon for a warm, spiced kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure your baking powder is gluten-free too!
- Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut oil instead of butter and almond milk in place of sour cream for a dairy-free version.
- Caramel Swirl: Drizzle some caramel sauce between layers of batter before baking for a sweet surprise!
- Berry Blend: Mix in some fresh or frozen berries alongside the apples for a delightful twist in texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a warm and cold contrast.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess.
- Drizzle extra cinnamon sauce over each slice right before serving.
- Accompany with a cup of steaming chai or coffee for a cozy experience.
- Garnish with sliced apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a beautiful presentation.
FAQs about Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
Can I use other types of apples for this cake?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are a fantastic choice for their tartness, you can experiment with others like Honeycrisp or Fuji. They each bring a unique sweetness that adds depth to your Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle.
How should I store leftover cake?
To keep your cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can stay at room temperature for about 2-3 days or be refrigerated for a week. Trust me; it still tastes delicious days later!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
You can certainly make the Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle a day in advance. Just let it cool completely, wrap it up, and keep it at room temperature. The flavors will meld together beautifully!
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you’re out of sour cream, fear not! Greek yogurt is a perfect substitute, giving your cake that same moisture and creamy texture. You might even consider plain yogurt for a lighter option!
Can I freeze this cake?
You can freeze the cake, yes! Just slice it, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight for best results. The drizzle can be made fresh for a warm slice of indulgence!
Final Thoughts
In every crispy crumb and luscious drizzle of my Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle, there’s a sprinkle of warmth and joy waiting to make its way to your family’s table. This cake is more than just dessert—it’s a heartwarming experience that gathers loved ones together. With its delightful blend of flavors and comforting textures, it has the power to turn an ordinary day into something special. So, tie on that apron and immerse yourself in this baking adventure. The bright smiles and satisfied sighs from your family will be the sweetest reward of all!
Print
Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle delights every bite with its rich flavors and comforting texture.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (crumb topping)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (crumb topping)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (crumb topping)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed (crumb topping)
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed (crumb topping)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (crumb topping)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (drizzle)
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed (drizzle)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (drizzle)
- 2 tablespoons milk (drizzle)
- A pinch of salt (drizzle)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, and then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in alternating batches with the sour cream, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Gently fold in the chopped apples until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples for a balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to ensure a light texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
