Apple crumble cake is the perfect blend of two beloved desserts — a soft, buttery cake and a crisp, golden crumble. Filled with tender spiced apples and topped with a sweet, crunchy streusel, it’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug. Ideal for cozy weekends, fall celebrations, or any time a comforting treat is needed.
The Essence of Apple Crumble Cake
Apple crumble cake combines the moist texture of a classic coffee cake with the rustic charm of an apple crumble. The base is soft and buttery, the middle is filled with juicy cinnamon-spiced apples, and the top is a crisp, buttery crumble that adds texture and sweetness.
It’s a dessert that’s simple to make yet full of flavor — perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Why Apple Crumble Cake Is So Special
This cake captures the essence of autumn in every bite. The apples bring natural sweetness and moisture, the spices add warmth, and the crumble topping provides a satisfying crunch. It’s versatile enough to serve warm with ice cream or cool with a cup of coffee.
It’s also a make-ahead favorite — the flavor deepens as it rests, making it even better the next day.
Ingredients and Their Roles
Apples: Add sweetness, moisture, and texture.
Flour: Provides structure for both the cake and crumble.
Butter: Adds richness and creates a tender crumb.
Sugar: Sweetens and caramelizes the apples.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure.
Baking powder: Helps the cake rise.
Cinnamon and nutmeg: Add warmth and spice.
Brown sugar: Deepens the flavor of the crumble topping.
Milk or yogurt: Keeps the cake moist and soft.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Apple Crumble Cake
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 250 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 115 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 150 g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) milk or plain yogurt
the apple filling:
- 2–3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
the crumble topping:
- 100 g (3/4 cup) all-purpose flour
- 100 g (1/2 cup) brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 85 g (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
Preparation
1. Prepare the apples
- In a bowl, toss sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
- Set aside to allow the flavors to blend.
2. Make the crumble topping
- In another bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Pour in melted butter and mix with a fork until crumbly. Set aside.
3. Prepare the cake batter
- Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line a 9-inch (23 cm) round or square baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
4. Assemble the cake
- Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan.
- Arrange the apple slices evenly over the batter.
- Spread the remaining batter on top and smooth gently.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the surface.
5. Bake the cake
- Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Serve
Serve warm or at room temperature. For extra indulgence, top with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Tips for Perfect Apple Crumble Cake
- Use firm apples: Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn hold their shape well.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Keeps the cake light and tender.
- Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add crunch to the crumble.
- Serve warm: Enhances the flavor and aroma.
- Store properly: Keeps the crumble crisp and the cake moist.
Variations to Try
Caramel Apple Crumble Cake
Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples before adding the crumble.
Apple Cranberry Crumble Cake
Add 1/2 cup of fresh or dried cranberries for a tart twist.
Spiced Apple Crumble Cake
Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for extra warmth.
Gluten-Free Apple Crumble Cake
Use a gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version.
Apple Crumble Muffins
Bake the batter in muffin tins for 20–25 minutes for individual servings.
Serving Suggestions
Apple crumble cake is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Serve it with coffee, tea, or hot cider for a cozy pairing.
For a festive touch, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with vanilla glaze. It’s a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Warm slightly before serving.
The cake can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Nutritional Information (per slice)
- Calories: 360–400 kcal
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Sugar: 30 g
The History and Inspiration Behind Apple Crumble Cake
Apple crumble cake draws inspiration from traditional British apple crumble and classic coffee cakes. The combination of tender apples, buttery cake, and crisp topping became popular in home baking for its simplicity and comforting flavor.
It’s a dessert that celebrates seasonal fruit and the joy of homemade baking — timeless, cozy, and endlessly adaptable.
The Texture and Flavor Profile
The perfect apple crumble cake is moist and tender, with layers of soft cake, juicy apples, and a crisp, buttery topping. The cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth, while the apples provide a sweet-tart contrast.
Each bite offers a balance of textures — soft, crumbly, and crunchy — making it irresistibly satisfying.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Crumble too soft: Bake a few minutes longer until golden brown.
Apples too watery: Use firm apples and avoid overmixing with sugar too early.
Cake sinking: Ensure the oven is fully preheated and avoid opening the door early.
Dry cake: Measure flour accurately and don’t overbake.
Chef’s Tips for Professional Results
- Weigh ingredients: Ensures consistent texture and flavor.
- Use room-temperature ingredients: Promotes even mixing.
- Layer neatly: For even baking and a beautiful presentation.
- Cool before slicing: Keeps the layers intact.
- Add a glaze: For a bakery-style finish.
Pairing Ideas
- With Beverages: Pair with coffee, chai, or apple cider.
- With Desserts: Serve alongside vanilla ice cream or custard.
- With Fruit: Fresh apple slices or berries add brightness.
The Joy of Baking Apple Crumble Cake
Baking apple crumble cake fills the kitchen with the comforting aroma of cinnamon, butter, and baked apples. The process — layering the batter, apples, and crumble — is simple yet deeply satisfying.
It’s a dessert that brings warmth and nostalgia, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether baked for a cozy weekend or a festive gathering, apple crumble cake is a timeless treat that embodies the comfort of home baking.
Conclusion
Apple crumble cake is the ultimate comfort dessert — moist, spiced, and topped with a buttery crumble. With its tender crumb, juicy apples, and golden topping, it’s a dessert that’s both rustic and elegant.
Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed with a cup of coffee, this cake captures the essence of cozy baking. A perfect blend of sweetness, spice, and texture — it’s a classic that never goes out of style.
