Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that wraps you up in a cozy hug, look no further than this Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle. It’s an incredibly moist, tender crumb cake bursting with tender apple chunks and finished with a sweet, buttery crumb topping that creates the perfect contrast of textures. What really sets this cake apart is the warm, cinnamon-spiced apple drizzle that cascades over each slice, elevating it into something truly extraordinary. Every bite is a celebration of comforting fall flavors, and I can’t wait to share this cherished recipe with you.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting the perfect Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle is simpler than you might think. The ingredients are straightforward but each one contributes something essential—whether it’s flavor, moisture, texture, or that inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation for both the cake and crumb topping, providing structure and a tender crumb.
• Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents work together to give the cake a gentle rise and lightness.
• Ground cinnamon: Woven throughout, this spice lends warmth and depth that harmonizes beautifully with the apples.
• Salt: A pinch enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Unsalted butter: Used softened in the cake for creaminess and cold in the topping for that iconic crumbly texture.
• Granulated and brown sugars: Both types add sweetness with brown sugar offering a subtle caramel note to the topping and drizzle.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and add richness to the cake batter.
• Vanilla extract: This little addition brightens the flavors and brings a silky aroma.
• Sour cream: Keeps the cake wonderfully moist while adding a subtle tang.
• Apples (preferably Granny Smith): The star ingredient, providing juicy sweetness balanced by a touch of tartness and soft texture when baked.
• Milk: Included in the drizzle to achieve that luscious, pourable consistency.

How to Make Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper so your cake comes out effortlessly. In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated sugar until it becomes light and fluffy; this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes with an electric mixer. Next, add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, and stir in the vanilla extract. Now, alternate adding the dry ingredients and sour cream to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, mixing gently to avoid overworking the batter.

Step 2: Fold in the Apples

Gently fold the chopped apples into the batter until they’re evenly spread throughout. Be careful to maintain those lovely apple chunks—they are the heart and soul of this cake and give it such a wonderful moist bite!

Step 3: Make the Crumb Topping

In a separate bowl, combine flour, cinnamon, salt, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Add cubed cold butter, and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to break it down until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with bits about the size of peas. This crumbly texture will add a delightful contrast on top of your tender cake base.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Spread your apple-studded batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the surface gently. Then evenly sprinkle the crumb topping over the cake. Transfer it to the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes before moving it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Apple Drizzle

While your cake cools, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, milk, and a tiny pinch of salt. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. Once the cake is fully cooled, drizzle this warm, fragrant sauce generously over the top. If you prefer, serve it on the side so everyone can add as much as they like—it’s irresistible either way!

How to Serve Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can truly elevate your presentation. Try sprinkling a little powdered sugar over the top just before serving for a delicate snowy effect. A few thin apple slices fan out beautifully on each slice of cake, adding a fresh, crisp note that complements the warm flavors.

Side Dishes

This Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a cozy brunch twist, serve alongside warm spiced tea or a rich cup of coffee to balance the cake’s sweet and tart notes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming dessert platter, cut the cake into small squares and serve as bite-sized portions topped with the cinnamon apple drizzle in mini ramekins for dipping. Alternatively, layer crumbled pieces into parfait glasses with cinnamon-spiced yogurt or custard for a stunning layered dessert everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This cake keeps beautifully at room temperature if wrapped or stored in an airtight container for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate it tightly covered. The crumb topping may lose a bit of its crispness over time but the flavors will still be rich and satisfying.

Freezing

Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle freezes well. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. To enjoy later, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. You can also freeze individual slices for easy single servings.

Reheating

Rewarm slices gently in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. If desired, drizzle with a bit more cinnamon apple sauce after reheating for that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.

FAQs

Can I use a different apple variety for this cake?

Absolutely! Granny Smith apples are ideal because of their tartness and firm texture, but you can experiment with Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala apples depending on your preferred sweetness and availability.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend meant for baking. Just be sure the blend contains xanthan gum for structure, and note that the texture might be slightly different but still delicious.

How long does the cinnamon apple drizzle keep?

The drizzle is best used fresh and warm, but you can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat before drizzling again.

Can I prepare the crumb topping in advance?

Yes, the crumb topping can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated in an airtight container. Bring it back to room temperature before sprinkling over the cake batter for best texture.

What is the best way to achieve a moist cake texture?

The combination of sour cream and applesauce-like moisture from the chopped apples is key. Also, avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake tender and light.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle isn’t just a dessert; it’s a warm invitation to slow down and savor life’s simple joys. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe guarantees cozy comfort and an irresistible flavor story. Give it a try—you’re going to fall in love with every delicious bite.

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