Amazing Apple Crumb Cake Cinnamon: 10 Steps Revealed

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Apple Crumb Cake Cinnamon has always been my ultimate fall comfort food. I remember my mom making this cake on chilly Saturday mornings, the scent of warm apples and sweet cinnamon filling our entire house. That aroma instantly brings me back to cozy kitchens and happy childhood memories. This isn’t just any cake; it’s a hug in dessert form! If you’re looking for the perfect apple cinnamon crumb cake recipe to impress your family, you’ve found it. Making this homemade apple crumb cake with cinnamon is surprisingly simple and yields the most incredible, tender results. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Crumb Cake Cinnamon

You’ll absolutely adore this cake for so many reasons:

The flavor is pure autumn bliss with tender apples and a warm cinnamon spice.
It’s incredibly moist apple crumb cake cinnamon thanks to the sour cream and perfectly balanced ingredients.
Prep time is a breeze, making it an easy apple cinnamon crumb cake for busy weeknights.
It’s a budget-friendly dessert, using common pantry staples.
The sweet, buttery crumb topping adds a delightful texture contrast.
It’s a family-favorite that everyone, from kids to grandparents, will devour.
The aroma while baking is simply divine, filling your home with comforting scents.

Ingredients for Apple Crumb Cake Cinnamon

Gather these simple ingredients to create your perfect cinnamon apple crumb cake:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – the base for our tender cake
1 teaspoon baking soda – for a good lift
1/2 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – essential for that warm spice
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg – adds a lovely depth
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened – crucial for richness and texture
1 cup packed light brown sugar – provides moisture and caramel notes
2 large eggs – at room temperature for better incorporation
1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt – this is key for a moist apple crumb cake cinnamon
1/2 cup milk – adds to the cake’s tenderness
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract – enhances all the flavors
2 cups peeled, diced apples (about 2 medium apples) – tart varieties like Granny Smith are wonderful

For the Crumb Topping:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cinnamon Drizzle:

1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Apple Crumb Cake Cinnamon

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious apple crumb cake cinnamon masterpiece:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure your baking pan is greased and floured, or lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures your cake comes out perfectly.
Step 2: Let’s get the crumb topping ready first. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup light brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Pour in the 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter and stir until everything is nicely combined and resembles coarse crumbs. Set this delightful apple crumble cake cinnamon topping aside.
Step 3: Now, prepare the cake batter. In a large bowl, whisk together the 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg. This dry mix is the foundation for that wonderful spice.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, cream together the 3/4 cup softened unsalted butter and 1 cup packed light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Beat in the 2 large eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Step 5: Mix in the wet ingredients for the cake. Stir the 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup milk, and 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract into the butter and sugar mixture until just combined.
Step 6: Combine the wet and dry ingredients. Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Gently fold in the 2 cups peeled, diced apples. The batter will be thick and fragrant.
Step 7: Assemble your cake. Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Generously sprinkle the prepared crumb topping over the batter. This is key to how to make apple crumb cake cinnamon taste amazing.
Step 8: Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. You’ll know it’s ready when the cake is golden brown and the topping is slightly crisp.
Step 9: While the cake cools, prepare the drizzle. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon milk, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon until smooth and pourable.
Step 10: Once the cake has cooled slightly, drizzle the cinnamon glaze over the top. Let it set a bit before slicing and serving this incredible homemade dessert.

Pro Tips for the Best Apple Crumb Cake Cinnamon

Elevate your baking with these simple tricks for an unforgettable apple crumb cake cinnamon experience:

Use a mix of apples, like Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness, for the best flavor.
Ensure your butter is truly softened, not melted, for both the cake and the crumb topping – it makes a huge difference in texture.
Don’t overwork the batter once the flour is added; a few lumps are better than a tough cake.
For an extra layer of flavor, add a tablespoon of pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping.

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

The secret to achieving the best apple crumb cake cinnamon is the combination of ingredients that ensure moisture and flavor. Using sour cream or Greek yogurt in the batter and not overmixing are key. Plus, a generous, well-spiced crumb topping is non-negotiable!

Can I make Apple Crumb Cake Cinnamon ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can prepare this delightful apple cake with cinnamon crumble ahead of time. You can make the batter and the crumb topping separately up to a day in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready!

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

To prevent common issues like a dry cake, make sure you don’t overbake it – a toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not completely dry. Also, avoid overmixing the batter after adding the flour, as this develops gluten and can lead to a tough texture, making your cake dry. For more baking tips, check out these baking tips.

Best Ways to Serve Apple Crumb Cake Cinnamon

This delightful apple crumb cake cinnamon is a star on its own, but I love serving it in a few special ways. For a truly decadent experience, a warm slice is fantastic with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream – the contrast of warm cake and cold, creamy ice cream is pure bliss. It also pairs beautifully with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. As a wonderful cinnamon apple crumble dessert, it’s perfect after a hearty meal, especially alongside a cup of hot apple cider or a rich coffee. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your pairings!

Nutrition Facts for Apple Crumb Cake Cinnamon

Let’s break down what makes this apple crumb cake cinnamon so delightful, per serving:

Calories: 350 (estimate)
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 280mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your homemade apple crumb cake with cinnamon.

How to Store and Reheat Apple Crumb Cake Cinnamon

Properly storing your delicious apple cake with cinnamon streusel ensures it stays fresh and tasty. Once your cake has completely cooled on a wire rack, you’ll want to store it airtight. For short-term storage, keep it at room temperature in a cake carrier or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2-3 days. If you need to keep it longer, transfer it to the refrigerator where it will stay good for 3-4 days. For longer preservation, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, reheating is simple! For refrigerated cake, microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds. Frozen slices can be thawed overnight in the fridge, then gently warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Crumb Cake Cinnamon

What is apple crumb cake cinnamon?

An apple crumb cake cinnamon is a delightful dessert featuring a tender, moist cake base baked with chunks of apple, topped with a sweet, buttery crumb topping, and often finished with a cinnamon glaze or drizzle. It’s a quintessential autumn treat that’s comforting and incredibly delicious.

What is the best cinnamon apple cake recipe?

The best cinnamon apple cake recipe often involves using a combination of tart and sweet apples, a moist cake base enriched with ingredients like sour cream or buttermilk, and a generous, well-spiced crumb topping. Achieving a perfect balance of cinnamon and apple flavor is key, along with a tender crumb. For more inspiration, explore these recipe ideas.

Can I make this Apple Crumb Cake Cinnamon gluten-free?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be gluten-free! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly, but it’s a straightforward substitution for a delicious gluten-free treat. You might find these keto coconut macaroons interesting if you’re exploring gluten-free options.

Why is my apple crumb cake dry?

A dry apple crumb cake often results from overbaking or using too much flour. Make sure to bake only until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached, not completely clean. Also, precisely measuring your flour by weight or using the spoon-and-level method can prevent a dry cake. For more baking tips, check out these chocolate baking tips.

Variations of Apple Crumb Cake Cinnamon You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, you can easily switch things up to create exciting new versions of this beloved dessert. For a delightful twist, try a glazed apple crumb cake cinnamon by adding a simple powdered sugar and milk drizzle. If you love extra spice, amp up the cinnamon in both the cake and the topping, or add a pinch of cloves and ginger for a truly spiced apple crumb cake cinnamon experience. You can also bake this as individual muffins for a quick grab-and-go treat, or even try it in a bundt pan for a stunning presentation. If you enjoy baking, you might also like this caramel toffee crunch cake.