The smell of cinnamon and baked apples can change an ordinary afternoon into something cozy and memorable. This Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake brings that warmth to your table with a tender coffee-cake crumb, soft apple pieces, and an irresistible cinnamon-brown-sugar streusel. It’s ideal for fall gatherings, weekend brunches, or any moment you want a homemade treat that looks and tastes like comfort.
What makes this cinnamon apple cake a fall favorite
This cake balances soft, tangy apple pieces with a buttery crumb topping. It’s simple to make, yet impressive to serve.
- Texture contrast: moist cake base and crunchy streusel.
- Layered flavors: vanilla, sour cream, warm spices, and apple cider glaze.
- Works as a coffee cake, dessert, or a sweet breakfast companion.
Recipe facts at a glance
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 35–40 minutes
- Total time: about 1 hour
- Yield: about 12 slices
- Category: Dessert / Coffee Cake
- Method: Baking
Ingredients you’ll need for the cake and toppings
Gather everything before you start. Measure accurately for best results.
Cinnamon-brown sugar streusel
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large tart apple, peeled and chopped
Cake batter
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Apple cider glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2–2 tablespoons apple cider
Step-by-step baking directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Make the streusel: whisk the dry ingredients together. Add melted butter and vanilla. Mix until evenly moistened and crumbly. Set aside.
- Prepare the cake batter: in a large bowl, cream the softened butter with sugar until light. Beat in the egg, then add vanilla and sour cream.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, and baking powder. Fold the dry mix into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Assemble the cake: spread half of the batter into the prepared pan in a thin, even layer. Scatter the chopped apple over the batter.
- Sprinkle about one cup of streusel over the apples. Carefully dollop and spread the remaining batter over the streusel.
- Top with the remaining streusel, pressing lightly so crumbs adhere.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick in the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
- Remove from oven. Run a thin knife around the pan before releasing the springform ring.
- Whisk powdered sugar and apple cider to make a glossy glaze. Drizzle over the slightly warm cake.
- Allow the cake to cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing so the glaze sets and the crumbs settle.
Smart tips for baking and serving
- Do not overmix the batter. Stir until ingredients are combined for a tender crumb.
- Use a tart apple like Granny Smith for bright flavor and firm texture.
- Room temperature ingredients blend more uniformly and yield a smoother batter.
- If you prefer a taller cake, bake in a 9-inch pan and check doneness a few minutes earlier.
- Store leftovers tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Warm individual slices briefly in the oven or microwave before serving. A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully.
- Photography tip: let steam subside from the cake before shooting. Cooler cakes hold crumbs better.
Other apple desserts worth trying
- Apple coffee cake with cream cheese filling
- Sticky apple pie cookies
- Warm apple dumplings, served with vanilla ice cream
- Caramel apple cinnamon roll lasagna for a show-stopping brunch
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