Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of apples, the warmth of cinnamon, and a buttery, crumbly topping. The moist cake, layered with tender apple pieces, is crowned with a crunchy streusel and finished with a luscious cinnamon apple drizzle. Perfect for autumn gatherings, afternoon tea, or as a comforting treat any time of year, this cake offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy your sweet cravings.

Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle

Ingredients

For the Cake:

1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream
2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped into small cubes (preferably Granny Smith)

For the Crumb Topping:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
½ cup brown sugar, packed
¼ cup granulated sugar

For the Cinnamon Apple Drizzle:

1 tablespoon unsalted butter
½ cup brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons milk
A pinch of salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped apples.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
Make the Crumb Topping:
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the brown sugar and granulated sugar.
- Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter in the pan.
Bake the Cake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15 minutes.
- Remove the cake from the pan and let it cool completely on the wire rack.
Prepare the Cinnamon Apple Drizzle:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, milk, and a pinch of salt.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and heated through, about 2–3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Serve:
- Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the cinnamon apple glaze over the top.
- Slice and serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12–16 slices
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 55–60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Nutty Crumble: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumb topping for added texture.
Spiced Drizzle: Incorporate a dash of nutmeg or cloves into the cinnamon apple drizzle for a spicier flavor profile.
Caramel Twist: Substitute the brown sugar in the drizzle with caramel sauce for a richer taste.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm slice, reheat individual pieces in the microwave for 15–20 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, you can use other apple varieties such as Honeycrisp or Fuji. However, tart apples like Granny Smith provide a nice balance to the sweetness of the cake.

Is it necessary to peel the apples?

Peeling the apples is recommended to ensure a smooth texture in the cake. However, if you prefer, you can leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature and drizzle with the cinnamon apple glaze just before serving.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unglazed cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before glazing and serving.

Can I use low-fat sour cream?

While low-fat sour cream can be used, full-fat sour cream contributes to the cake’s moistness and rich flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly.

Can I add raisins or dried cranberries?

Yes, adding raisins or dried cranberries can enhance the flavor and texture of the cake.

How can I make the crumb topping crunchier?

Ensure the butter in the crumb topping is cold and work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Can I use a different pan size?

If using a different pan size, adjust the baking time accordingly. A larger pan may require less baking time, while a smaller pan may require more.

Can I omit the glaze?

While the glaze adds a delightful finish, the cake is delicious on its own without it.

Conclusion

Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle is a comforting dessert that brings together the classic flavors of apples and cinnamon in a moist, flavorful cake. Whether served as a sweet breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a dessert for special occasions, this cake is sure to please. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it a standout choice for any apple lover.