Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle

A Cozy Dessert That Brings Warmth and Comfort to Every Bite

Introduction

Few desserts capture the spirit of cozy afternoons and crisp autumn mornings like a freshly baked Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle. This delightful creation combines the tender, moist crumb of a classic coffee cake with juicy apple pieces, a buttery cinnamon crumble topping, and a luscious drizzle that takes each slice over the top.
Whether you’re preparing a dessert for a holiday gathering, a weekend brunch, or simply indulging in a sweet treat with your evening tea, this cake delivers the perfect balance of texture and flavor.

Imagine a golden, buttery cake base studded with tart Granny Smith apples, crowned with a crunchy cinnamon crumb topping, and finished with a warm caramel-like drizzle infused with cinnamon and brown sugar. Each bite offers layers of flavor—sweet, tart, buttery, and warmly spiced—that make this dessert as memorable as it is delicious. Even better, the recipe is simple enough for a beginner baker yet elegant enough to serve at special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Texture Balance: Moist cake, tender apples, and crisp crumb topping create a symphony of textures.
• Warm, Cozy Flavors: Cinnamon and apples are a timeless pairing that feels like a hug in dessert form.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Payoff: Most items are pantry staples, making this recipe accessible anytime.
• Versatile Occasion Dessert: Serve it as a breakfast coffee cake, a brunch centerpiece, or an after-dinner indulgence.

Ingredients

Below is the detailed list of ingredients you’ll need for each component of this recipe. Having everything measured and ready before you begin will make baking a smooth and enjoyable process.

Cake Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the cake while keeping it light.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cake rise for a soft, fluffy crumb.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda – Balances the acidity of the sour cream for a tender texture.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – Infuses warmth and complements the apples beautifully.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened – Creates a rich, moist base.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake without overpowering the apples.
• 2 large eggs – Bind the ingredients and add structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a subtle, aromatic depth.
• ½ cup sour cream – Ensures moisture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped into small cubes – Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness, but Honeycrisp or Fuji also work.

Crumb Topping Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour – Forms the base of the topping.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Gives the crumb its signature warm spice.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances the sweetness of the topping.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed – Cold butter is key to creating a crumbly, crunchy texture.
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed – Adds a caramel-like richness.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar – Balances the brown sugar with a cleaner sweetness.

Cinnamon Apple Drizzle Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter – Provides a smooth, glossy base for the drizzle.
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed – Creates a caramel-like sauce with deep flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Infuses the drizzle with warm spice.
• 2 tablespoons milk – Helps thin the sauce to a pourable consistency.
• A pinch of salt – Enhances all the sweet notes for a balanced finish.

Step-by-Step Method

1. Prepare the Baking Pan and Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch square baking pan (or line it with parchment paper for easy removal). A light greasing with butter or non-stick spray ensures the cake releases cleanly.

2. Make the Crumb Topping

The crumb topping is what sets this cake apart, so take your time to get it just right.

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to cut it into the dry ingredients until coarse crumbs form.
3. Mix in the brown sugar and granulated sugar until combined.
4. Set aside in the refrigerator to keep the butter cold while you prepare the cake batter.

3. Prepare the Cake Batter

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Reduce mixer speed to low and add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients to prevent overmixing.
6. Fold in the chopped apples gently using a spatula to avoid breaking them down.

4. Assemble the Cake

1. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
2. Sprinkle the chilled crumb topping evenly over the batter, pressing lightly so it adheres.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan while you prepare the drizzle.

5. Prepare the Cinnamon Apple Drizzle

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the sugar begins to melt and the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Pour in the milk, stirring constantly until smooth and glossy.
4. Remove from heat and let cool for 2–3 minutes before drizzling over the cake.

6. Finish and Serve

Once the cake has cooled for about 15 minutes, drizzle the warm cinnamon apple sauce generously over the top. Slice into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Apple Crumb Cake

1. Choose the Right Apples
   Granny Smith apples hold their shape during baking and provide a tart contrast to the sweet crumb topping. For a sweeter cake, try Honeycrisp or Gala.
2. Keep the Butter Cold for the Crumb
   Cold butter creates those irresistible crispy crumbs. If the butter softens while mixing, pop the bowl back in the fridge for a few minutes.
3. Don’t Overmix the Batter
   Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
4. Test for Doneness
   Every oven varies. Begin checking at the 40-minute mark by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
5. Make Ahead Friendly
   This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store covered at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Serving Suggestions

• Brunch Star: Pair slices with fresh fruit, yogurt, and coffee for a brunch that will wow your guests.
• Dessert Delight: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Holiday Centerpiece: Dust the top with powdered sugar or extra cinnamon for a festive touch.
• Tea-Time Treat: Enjoy a small slice alongside your favorite herbal tea or spiced chai.

Storage and Freezing

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days; bring to room temperature or gently warm before serving.
• Freezer: Freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition Highlights (Approx. per Serving – based on 12 servings)

• Calories: 330
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Carbohydrates: 44 g
• Sugars: 26 g
• Protein: 4 g

These values are estimates and will vary based on portion size and ingredient brands.

Variations to Try

• Pecan Crumb Cake: Add a handful of chopped pecans to the crumb topping for extra crunch.
• Caramel Apple Crumb Cake: Replace the drizzle with store-bought caramel sauce for a richer, buttery finish.
• Spiced Pear Crumb Cake: Swap apples for pears and add a pinch of nutmeg for a sophisticated twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for the all-purpose flour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes! Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples provide a sweeter flavor, while Granny Smith offers a tart contrast. Use a mix for added depth.

Q2: Do I have to use sour cream?
Sour cream provides moisture and a slight tang. If unavailable, substitute with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk.

Q3: How do I keep the crumb topping crunchy?
Keeping the butter cold and baking the cake until golden ensures the topping stays crisp. Avoid covering the cake while it’s still warm to prevent condensation.

Q4: Can I make the drizzle ahead of time?
Yes, but it will thicken as it cools. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk before serving.

Q5: What’s the best way to cut clean slices?
Allow the cake to cool at least 15–20 minutes. Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for neat, bakery-style squares.

Q6: Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely. Bake in a 9×13-inch pan and increase the baking time by 5–10 minutes, checking for doneness.

Q7: Is this cake suitable for breakfast?
Definitely! The modest sweetness makes it a delightful morning treat alongside coffee or tea.

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Conclusion

This Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of comfort, warmth, and the simple pleasure of home baking. The tender cake base, juicy apple pieces, buttery crumb topping, and spiced drizzle create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that appeals to both casual snackers and dessert enthusiasts alike.

Whether you’re baking it for a weekend gathering, a holiday brunch, or simply to treat yourself, this recipe promises to fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your plate with pure indulgence. One slice is never enough, so go ahead and savor every bite of this cozy, cinnamon-kissed masterpiece.