Why Make This Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
This Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle is not just a dessert; it’s a warm, comforting hug in cake form! Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a cozy day at home, this cake delivers delightful flavors that whisk you away to nostalgic moments. The combination of buttery cake, tender apples, and crunchy crumb topping makes each bite heavenly. Plus, the irresistible cinnamon apple drizzle adds the perfect finishing touch, elevating this cake to a whole new level of deliciousness.
How to Make Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
Making this Apple Crumb Cake is simpler than you might think! With just a mix of pantry staples and fresh apples, you can create a delightful treat that’s sure to impress family and friends. The process is straightforward and involves creaming butter and sugar, folding in apples, and baking until golden. The crumb topping, which is just a quick blend of flour, brown sugar, and butter, adds a satisfying crunch. Finally, the easy cinnamon drizzle brings everything together, making your cake not just tasty but visually appealing too!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups diced apples (peeled)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- For the crumb topping:
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- For the drizzle:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add in the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Gently fold in the diced apples and pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
- To prepare the crumb topping, combine the flour, brown sugar, and softened butter in a separate bowl; mix until crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the batter.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake cools, prepare the cinnamon drizzle by mixing together the powdered sugar, milk, and cinnamon until smooth. Drizzle this over the cooled cake just before serving.
Nutritional Information
- Serving size: 1 slice (1/12 of the cake)
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 3g
How to Serve Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
This cake shines as a delightful dessert, but it also makes a wonderful breakfast treat or snack. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a luscious indulgence or enjoy it alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon pick-me-up. For a festive touch, garnish with additional cinnamon or a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving!
How to Store Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, consider refrigerating it, where it will last for about a week. To enjoy later, you can freeze individual slices, wrapped in plastic wrap, for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature or pop in the microwave for a warm treat.
Expert Tips for Perfect Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
- Choose tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast to the sweet cake.
- Don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour; this ensures a light and fluffy texture.
- If you prefer a more intense cinnamon flavor, feel free to add an extra dash to the cake batter or crumb topping.
- Ensure your butter is softened but not melted for the best crumb topping texture.
- Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean, but a few moist crumbs are fine.
Delicious Variations
- Nutty Addition: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Mix it Up: Substitute half of the apples with pears or berries for a different flavor profile.
- Spiced Up: Add a touch of nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for a spicier cake.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour for a deliciously accommodating twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes! You can experiment with various apple types like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn. Just make sure they are firm and not overly sweet.What can I use instead of milk?
You can substitute almond milk, oat milk, or even Greek yogurt thinned with water for a different flavor and texture.How can I make this cake healthier?
Swap out half of the granulated sugar for applesauce or use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option. You can also replace butter with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version.
Conclusion
This Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle is a delightful recipe that perfectly balances sweetness and warmth, making it ideal for any gathering or casual family treat. With its tender crumb and rich flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Don’t hesitate to try making this scrumptious cake; it’s easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Share your results or any variations you try in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you! Happy baking!
Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add in the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Gently fold in the diced apples and pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
- To prepare the crumb topping, combine the flour, brown sugar, and softened butter in a separate bowl; mix until crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the batter.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake cools, prepare the cinnamon drizzle by mixing together the powdered sugar, milk, and cinnamon until smooth. Drizzle this over the cooled cake just before serving.