Ponly Food

Easy Apple Crumb Cake That Actually Works

apple crumb cake

As the leaves start to turn and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm slice of apple crumb cake. This delightful dessert is perfect for fall gatherings, cozy weekends, or simply indulging yourself with a sweet treat. The combination of tender, spiced apples and a crunchy crumb topping creates a delightful contrast that makes every bite a pleasure. Not only is this apple crumb cake easy to make, but it also fills your home with a wonderful aroma that beckons everyone to the kitchen. Let’s dive into the details of creating this mouthwatering dessert.

Ingredients for Apple Crumb Cake

A closeup shot of a slice of a delicious apple pie on a plate on a wooden table

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to baking a delicious apple crumb cake. Here’s what you will need:

  • 4 medium-sized apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start baking. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delightful apple crumb cake that will impress your family and friends.

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  • In a medium bowl, toss the chopped apples with lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
  • In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg if using. This will ensure that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
  • In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.
  • Add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can create a dense cake.
  • Fold in the prepared apples gently, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  • In a small bowl, combine the rolled oats, brown sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the cake batter to create the crumb topping.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and fragrant.
  • Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cooking and Prep Time Details

This apple crumb cake is not only delicious but also relatively quick to prepare. Here’s a breakdown of the time you’ll spend in the kitchen:

  • Prep time: Approximately 20 minutes
  • Cook time: 45-50 minutes
  • Total time: About 1 hour and 10 minutes

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings, making it perfect for sharing with loved ones or for enjoying over several days. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Serving Suggestions for Apple Crumb Cake

There’s nothing quite like enjoying a slice of apple crumb cake warm from the oven, but there are plenty of ways to elevate this dessert experience. Consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. The creamy textures complement the crumbly cake and spiced apples beautifully. For an added flair, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top just before serving, transforming your cake into an indulgent treat.

Variations of Apple Crumb Cake

While the classic apple crumb cake is a delight on its own, you can customize it to suit your taste or to experiment with different flavors. Here are some variation ideas to inspire your baking:

  • For a nutty crunch, add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumb topping or mix them into the batter.
  • Try incorporating other fruits, such as pears or berries, along with the apples for a mixed fruit crumb cake.
  • Enhance the flavor profile by adding a teaspoon of ginger or allspice to the apple mixture for a spicier kick.

Nutritional Information

For those who are mindful of their dietary intake, here’s a basic nutritional overview per serving based on the ingredients listed. Please note that actual values may vary based on specific brands and measurements:

  • Calories: Approximately 350
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Fiber: 2g

This apple crumb cake is a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of fall, combining comforting spices and the sweetness of apples in a delightful dessert. Whether you are looking for an easy apple cake to bake for a gathering or simply want to treat yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere and the delicious aroma that fills your kitchen as you create this wonderful dessert!

Isla Briar

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