Apple Crumb Cake Cinnamon: 1 Amazing Bake

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Apple Crumb Cake Cinnamon has always been my go-to comfort bake, especially as the leaves start to turn. I fondly remember my mom making this for Sunday breakfast, the aroma of warm apples and sweet cinnamon filling our kitchen. The tender cake, that amazing crunchy topping, and the hint of spice – it’s pure bliss! If you’ve ever wondered how to make apple cinnamon crumb cake that’s both incredibly easy and ridiculously delicious, you’ve come to the right place. This recipe is a hug in cake form. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Crumb Cake Cinnamon

This cake is an absolute winner for so many reasons:

Incredible taste: A perfect blend of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and buttery crumb topping that’s simply divine.
Quick and easy prep: You’ll find this is an easy apple cinnamon crumb cake to whip up, even on a weeknight.
Budget-friendly: Uses simple, common ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Family favorite: Kids and adults alike adore this comforting dessert.
Wonderfully moist texture: This recipe guarantees a moist apple cinnamon crumb cake every time.
Versatile treat: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or an afternoon snack.
Aromatic and comforting: The smell of baking apples and cinnamon is pure cozy bliss.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake

Gather these essentials for a truly delicious experience. The secret to the perfect apple cake with cinnamon crumb topping lies in fresh, quality ingredients.

2 1/2 cups (313g) all-purpose flour – the base for our tender cake
1 teaspoon baking soda – for a good rise
1/2 teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – the star spice!
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg – adds warmth and depth
3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened – creates that lovely buttery cake
1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar – for sweetness and moisture
2 large eggs – helps bind everything together
1/2 cup (120g) sour cream or plain Greek yogurt – this is key for a moist apple cinnamon crumb cake
1/2 cup (120ml) milk – adds to the cake’s tenderness
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract – for that classic comforting flavor
2 cups peeled, diced apples (about 2 medium apples) – choose firm apples for best texture
For the Crumb Topping:
1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted – binds the crumble together
For the Cinnamon Drizzle:
1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake

Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, prepare your crumb topping. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Pour in 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted, and stir everything with a fork until it forms coarse crumbs. Set this delicious mixture aside.
Step 2: Now, let’s get the cake batter going. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups (313g) all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg. You want these dry ingredients well combined for an even flavor distribution.
Step 3: In a separate large bowl, cream together 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened, and 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a tender cake. Beat in the 2 large eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup (120ml) milk, and 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients from Step 2 to the wet ingredients in Step 3. Mix on low speed or by hand until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Gently fold in the 2 cups peeled, diced apples. The batter will be thick, and you’ll start to smell that wonderful apple scent.
Step 5: Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Spread it evenly to create a nice base for our toppings. This is where the magic happens for a truly delightful apple crumble cake with cinnamon. Sprinkle the prepared crumb topping generously over the entire surface of the batter.

Apple Crumb Cake Cinnamon: 1 Amazing Bake - Apple Crumb Cake Cinnamon - additional detail

Step 6: Time to bake! Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen will be absolutely heavenly – a true sign of a successful simple apple cinnamon crumb cake recipe.
Step 7: While the cake cools slightly, prepare the cinnamon drizzle. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon milk, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon until you have a smooth, pourable glaze.
Step 8: Once the cake has cooled for about 15-20 minutes, drizzle the cinnamon glaze over the top. Let it set for a few more minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy this amazing homemade treat!

Pro Tips for the Best Apple Crumble Cake Featuring Cinnamon

Elevate your baking with these simple tricks for an unforgettable cake:

Use cold apples for the best texture; they won’t break down as much during baking.
Don’t overmix the batter once the flour is added – this is key to a tender crumb.
For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of cardamom or ginger to the crumb topping.
Ensure your butter is truly softened, not melted, for the cake batter to cream properly.

What’s the secret to perfect Apple Crumb Cake Cinnamon?

The magic lies in the balance of textures and flavors. Using sour cream or yogurt in the batter creates a wonderfully moist apple cinnamon crumb cake, while the generous cinnamon-spiced crumb topping adds that irresistible crunch. Achieving the best apple cinnamon crumb cake is all about these complementary elements.

Can I make Apple Cinnamon Streusel Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the entire cake, minus the drizzle, a day in advance. Cover it tightly and store it at room temperature. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight, making your morning prep even easier.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Homemade Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake?

A common pitfall is overmixing, which can lead to a tough cake. To avoid this, mix the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined. Also, if you’re wondering why is my apple crumb cake dry, it’s often due to overbaking or using apples that are too watery. For more baking tips, check out this guide on baking techniques.

Best Ways to Serve Cinnamon Spiced Apple Crumble Cake

This delightful cake is wonderful on its own, but a few touches can make it truly spectacular. I love serving a warm slice of this apple crumble cake cinnamon flavor after dinner. For an extra special treat, a dollop of vanilla bean ice cream or a spoonful of freshly whipped cream is divine. Consider pairing it with a cup of hot apple cider or a smooth coffee.

If you’ve made a glazed apple cinnamon crumb cake, the glaze adds a lovely sweetness that stands beautifully on its own. For a more decadent experience, a drizzle of caramel sauce over the top is absolutely heavenly. This cake truly shines as a comforting dessert or a special brunch treat. You might also enjoy this apple cinnamon overnight oats recipe for a cozy breakfast.

Nutrition Facts for Apple Crumble Cake Cinnamon

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in each delicious slice of this apple crumble cake cinnamon delight:

Calories: Approximately 350-400
Fat: Around 18-22g
Saturated Fat: Roughly 10-12g
Protein: About 4-5g
Carbohydrates: Approximately 45-55g
Fiber: Around 2-3g
Sugar: Roughly 25-35g (includes natural sugars from apples and added sugars)
Sodium: About 250-300mg

Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient choices and serving sizes. For more information on dietary fiber, you can explore fiber intake.

How to Store and Reheat Cinnamon Baked Apple Cake with Crumble

Once your delicious apple crumble cake cinnamon creation has cooled completely, proper storage is key to maintaining its wonderful texture and taste. I usually let it sit on a wire rack for a good hour or two after baking. For short-term storage, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. This helps preserve that lovely apple crumble cake cinnamon flavor without drying it out.

If you need to store it longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. For reheating, a warm slice is pure comfort! You can gently reheat individual slices in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through. Consider trying this roasted cauliflower recipe for another delicious dish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Crumb Cake Cinnamon

Is this recipe truly an easy apple cinnamon crumb cake to make?

Absolutely! This recipe is designed for simplicity. From the straightforward crumb topping to the easy batter, it’s perfect for bakers of all levels. You’ll find it’s a very forgiving and rewarding bake, making it one of the most approachable apple cinnamon crumble cake recipes out there.

What makes this cinnamon apple dessert cake so moist?

The secret to its incredible moisture lies in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and milk in the batter. These dairy components add richness and keep the cake incredibly tender. Plus, using fresh, firm apples contributes natural moisture, ensuring you don’t end up with a dry dessert.

Can I use different types of apples for my apple crumble cake with cinnamon?

Yes, you can! While Granny Smith apples offer a lovely tartness that balances the sweetness, Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples also work beautifully. Just make sure the apples you choose are firm and hold their shape well when baked. This flexibility makes it easy to create your perfect apple cinnamon crumble cake.

How do I store leftover apple crumble cake cinnamon flavor?

Once cooled, store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is particularly warm, or if you have more than a couple of slices left, refrigerating it for up to 5 days is a good option to maintain freshness. For more dessert ideas, explore pie tricks.

Variations of Apple Crumb Cake Cinnamon You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, why not explore some fun twists on this delightful treat? Experimenting with variations can unlock new favorite flavors and textures. Here are a few ideas to get you inspired:

Gluten-Free Version: For a gluten-free option, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free baking blend. This makes it accessible for more people to enjoy this wonderful apple crumble cake featuring cinnamon.
Spiced Pear Variation: Replace half of the apples with ripe pears. This creates a beautiful flavor combination, perfect for a slightly different take on a classic. It’s a fantastic way to adapt the spiced apple crumble cake recipe.
Salted Caramel Drizzle: Instead of the cinnamon drizzle, try a rich salted caramel sauce. This adds a decadent, sweet, and salty contrast that pairs wonderfully with the apple and cinnamon flavors.
Individual Crumb Cakes: Bake the batter in muffin tins for individual servings. Adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. This is a great option for parties or grab-and-go treats.