Apple Crumb Cake Recipe

This Apple Crumb Cake recipe is a deliciously moist and easy-to-make dessert that combines the tartness of Granny Smith apples with a sweet, buttery crumb topping. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this homemade cake features a rich, flavorful batter with a generous crumble topping that creates the ultimate treat. With ingredients like sour cream, raisins, and baking powder, this recipe ensures a light yet flavorful texture. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this apple cake recipe is simple to follow and guarantees a showstopping result. It’s the perfect dessert for fall or any time you want to enjoy the comforting flavors of apples in a sweet, warm cake. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent experience. Apple crumb cake is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients:

Cake Ingredients:

• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/4 cups (10 oz) sour cream (regular, not low-fat)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (*see notes)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 large Granny Smith apples (about 1 lb)
• 3/4 cup raisins

Topping Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar

Instructions:

1. Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan. Set aside.
2. Peel and core the apples, then slice them into 1/4-inch thick wedges. Cover them with plastic wrap and set aside.
3. Soak the raisins in hot water for 5 minutes, then drain and pat them dry with a paper towel.
4. Make the Cake Batter: In a stand mixer, beat the 3 eggs and 1 cup sugar on high speed for about 5 minutes, until the mixture is foamy and thick.
5. Lower the mixer speed to medium and add the sour cream, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until well incorporated.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of flour and 1 tsp baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture into the batter, mixing until fully combined.
7. Assemble: Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Evenly spread the apple slices and raisins on top of the batter. Then, pour the remaining batter over the apples and raisins.
8. Bake the Cake: Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
9. While the cake is baking, prepare the crumble topping: In a small bowl, rub together the 2 tbsp softened butter and 4 tbsp flour with your fingers until small crumbles form. Add the 3 tbsp sugar and mix until incorporated.
10. After 20 minutes, remove the cake from the oven and sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the cake.
11. Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, until the topping is golden and the cake is fully cooked through. If you’d like the top to be extra golden, set your oven to broil for 2 additional minutes.
12. Once done, remove the springform ring and let the cake cool before serving.

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Tips

• Make sure to use Granny Smith apples for their tart flavor and firm texture, which hold up well during baking.
• For an extra moist cake, do not overmix the batter after adding the flour.

Variations and Substitutions

• Substitute raisins with dried cranberries or chopped nuts for a different twist.
• For a dairy-free version, you can swap the sour cream with coconut cream or a plant-based yogurt.
• You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor of the apple cake.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the cake in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Simply reheat in the oven for 10 minutes before serving.

Can I freeze the apple crumb cake? Yes, this cake freezes well. After it cools, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the apple crumb cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. It also pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Apple Crumb Cake is the perfect combination of moist cake, sweet apples, and a crunchy crumb topping. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that’s sure to impress at any gathering. The layers of flavor from the apples and raisins combined with the sweet, buttery topping make each bite irresistible. Whether you’re serving it for a family breakfast, holiday dessert, or special occasion, this cake will quickly become a favorite!