Apple Cinnamon Crumble Cake

Sarah

Writer & Blogger

Baking
March 26, 2025

Apple Cinnamon Crumble Cake: A Warm and Inviting Delight! 🍎🥧🍂

1. Introduction

There’s an undeniable magic in the air when the scent of apples and cinnamon fills your kitchen, especially when it’s the prelude to a delightful apple cinnamon crumble cake. This masterpiece combines the cozy and comforting flavors of fall into one utterly irresistible treat. Imagine sinking your fork into a moist, cinnamon apple cake base, followed by a burst of sweet and tart apple filling, all crowned with a buttery, crumbly topping. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will undoubtedly leave you craving more. Whether you affectionately call it an apple crumble cake or simply an apple cinnamon cake, this dessert is the quintessential choice for cozy gatherings, festive holiday celebrations, or even just a simple, satisfying afternoon treat. This apple cinnamon crumble cake recipe is designed with ease in mind, ensuring a delicious and heartwarming outcome every single time you bake it. So, preheat that oven and get ready to embark on a baking adventure that will warm your heart and fill your home with the comforting and nostalgic scent of autumn! Looking for more delightful recipes? Check out our baking category!

2. Ingredients Needed

Before you start, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this sensational apple cinnamon crumble cake. Here’s a detailed list:

For the Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation of our crumbly delight.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: For that touch of sweetness.
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar: Adding depth and a hint of caramel flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The essential spice that ties it all together.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: To enhance the flavors and balance the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes: The key to achieving that perfect crumble texture.
For the Apple Filling:
- 4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and sliced: Choose your favorite variety – the blend of sweet and tart is ideal.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetening the apple filling to perfection.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the filling as it bakes.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: More cinnamon goodness for that signature flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A warm, subtly spicy note that complements the apples beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and prevents the apples from browning.
For the Cake Batter:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of our moist and tender cake.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: For a light and airy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake to rise and adds to its tenderness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and moisture.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps to create a tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt: Adds moisture and a slight tang, resulting in a wonderfully tender cake.

Got all your ingredients? Great! Let’s move on to the equipment you’ll need. If you’re looking for other dessert ideas, maybe some No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Balls would catch your eye?

3. Equipment Required

Having the right tools at your disposal will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a list of the essential equipment you’ll need to create this amazing apple cinnamon crumble cake:

9-inch round cake pan: The ideal size for achieving the perfect cake thickness.
Mixing bowls: A variety of sizes for preparing the crumble topping, apple filling, and cake batter.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate measurements, ensuring the best results.
Pastry blender or fork: For cutting the cold butter into the dry ingredients to create the crumble topping.
Rubber spatula: For gently folding ingredients together and scraping the sides of the bowl.

4. Step-by-Step Instructions

Now for the fun part! Follow these detailed, step-by-step instructions to bake your very own apple cinnamon crumble cake. Don’t worry, we’ll guide you through each step with clear and concise directions.

Making the Crumble Topping

In a medium bowl, combine the 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of packed brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Now, here comes the key step: Cut in the 1/2 cup (1 stick) of cold, cubed unsalted butter using a pastry blender or your fingers. Work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The cold butter is absolutely essential for achieving that perfect, crumbly texture that makes this apple cinnamon crumble cake so irresistible. Set the crumble topping aside for now; we’ll need it later.

Dry ingredients and butter being mixed for the apple cinnamon crumble cake crumble topping.

Preparing the Apple Filling

In a large bowl, gently mix the 4 medium apple slices (peeled, cored, and sliced) with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Make sure the apple slices are evenly coated with the mixture; this will ensure a consistent and flavorful filling. This crucial step truly enhances the apple flavor in the final apple cinnamon cake. The lemon juice not only brightens the flavors but also prevents the apples from browning, keeping them looking fresh and vibrant.

Apple slices being mixed with cinnamon and sugar for the apple cinnamon crumble cake filling.

Making the Cake Batter

Before you begin the cake batter, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to prevent the cake from sticking. Now, in a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Beat in the 2 large eggs one at a time, then stir in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the 1/2 cup of sour cream (or plain yogurt), beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined – be careful not to overmix! This luxurious batter will form the perfect base for your apple crumble cake. If you’re interested in other meal ideas, we also have categories for dinner, salads, and soups!

Cake batter in a greased pan for the apple cinnamon crumble cake.

Assembling and Baking

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Gently spoon the apple filling evenly over the cake batter in the prepared pan. Then, generously sprinkle the crumble topping over the apple filling, ensuring an even layer of buttery goodness. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake – if the crumble topping starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover the cake with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate. And there you have it – your very own, homemade apple cinnamon crumble cake recipe triumph! If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy other breakfast and brunch options from our Breakfast & Brunch category!

Apple slices and crumble topping being layered on the cake batter for apple cinnamon crumble cake.

5. Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Cake

Want to elevate your apple cinnamon crumble cake to the next level? Here are a few tried-and-true tips and tricks:

Use cold butter for the crumble topping: This is crucial for achieving that delightful crumbly texture.
Toss the apple slices with lemon juice: This prevents browning and enhances the flavor.
Don’t overmix the cake batter: Overmixing can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined for a tender crumb.
Protect the crumble topping: If the topping starts to brown too quickly, cover the cake loosely with foil for the last 15-20 minutes of baking.

6. Variations and Add-Ins

Feel like getting creative? Here are some delicious variations and add-ins to personalize your apple cinnamon cake:

Add chopped nuts: Walnuts or pecans in the crumble topping add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Substitute other fruits: Pears or berries can be used in place of or in addition to the apples for a unique twist.
Caramel swirl: Stir a tablespoon of caramel sauce into the apple filling for a richer, more decadent flavor.
Warm spices: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the batter for a warmer, more complex spice profile in your apple cinnamon cake.

For more delicious recipes and baking inspiration, I highly recommend checking out Sally’s Baking Addiction’s Apple Crumb Cake recipe. It’s a fantastic resource for baking enthusiasts!

7. Serving Suggestions

The best way to enjoy this apple cinnamon crumble cake? Serve it warm, fresh from the oven, with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance. It’s also incredibly delicious on its own, paired with a comforting cup of coffee or tea. For more savory options, check our sections for chicken recipes or beef recipes!

8. Storage Information

To store any leftover apple cinnamon crumble cake, simply place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To restore its warmth and flavor, reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving. Looking for details about our site? Check out about us page!

9. Conclusion

This apple cinnamon crumble cake recipe is truly a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion, big or small. The delightful combination of the moist cake, the tender, spiced apples, and the buttery, golden crumble topping creates a truly memorable and comforting dessert experience. With its easy-to-follow instructions and heartwarming flavors, this apple crumble cake is destined to become a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the delightful process of creating this incredible treat. Savor every delicious bite – you deserve it!