Apple Streusel Cake Recipe With Crispy Cinnamon Crumble Topping

Name: Apple Streusel Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 38 min
Total time: 1 h 8 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 7 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature Provides richness and helps bind the streusel for a crumbly texture that melts in your mouth.; ½ cup brown sugar, light or dark Adds deep sweetness and moisture, enhancing the caramel notes in the crispy crumble topping.; 1 cup all-purpose flour Forms the base of the streusel, giving it structure and a satisfying crunch when baked.; ¾ teaspoon kosher salt or ½ teaspoon table salt Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor, making the topping taste more complex.; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Infuses warm spice that complements the apples, creating that irresistible crispy cinnamon crumble topping.; 2 medium to large apples (about 1 pound) Adds natural sweetness, moisture, and fiber, while providing a fresh, fruity element that makes the cake wholesome.; 10 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature Contributes to a tender, airy crumb by creaming with sugar for the base of this apple streusel cake.; ½ cup granulated sugar Sweetens the batter and helps achieve a light, fluffy texture when beaten with butter.; 2 large eggs at room temperature Acts as a binder and adds moisture, helping the cake rise and stay soft.; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic note that ties all ingredients together.; ½ teaspoon almond extract Adds a subtle nutty undertone, boosting the distinctive taste of the apple streusel cake.; 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour Forms the structure of the cake, ensuring it holds together while baking to perfection.; Pinch of cloves (adjust to taste) Introduces a hint of spice that complements the cinnamon and apples for added depth.; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder Helps the cake rise, resulting in a light and fluffy texture that’s easy to enjoy.; ¾ teaspoon kosher salt or ½ teaspoon table salt Brings out the flavors of the other ingredients, making the cake more balanced.; 2 tablespoons milk Adds moisture to the batter, ensuring the cake remains tender and not too dry.

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Why You’ll Love This Apple Streusel Cake

Imagine pulling a warm, fragrant apple streusel cake from the oven, its crispy cinnamon crumble topping adding the perfect crunch to every bite. This apple streusel cake recipe with crispy cinnamon crumble topping is a favorite for home bakers looking for something simple yet delicious. It’s especially great for busy parents or baking enthusiasts who want a treat that combines ease with rewarding flavors. In this section, we’ll dive into the main benefits that make this cake a go-to choice for many.

Ease of preparation: One of the best things about this apple streusel cake is how straightforward it is to make, requiring just basic ingredients and minimal steps. With a total prep time of about 30 minutes and baking that takes 30-38 minutes, you can whip it up even on a hectic weekday. This simplicity makes it perfect for students or working professionals who need quick recipes without sacrificing taste, allowing more time to enjoy family moments.
Health benefits: Packed with fresh apples, this cake offers nutritional advantages like fiber and vitamins from the fruit, supporting digestive health and providing a natural energy boost. Each serving includes about 2g of fiber and 352 calories, making it a balanced option for diet-conscious individuals. The use of ingredients like apples highlights their wellness aspects, such as aiding in weight management, as noted in various apple streusel cake discussions among food enthusiasts.
Versatility: This recipe adapts easily to various dietary needs, letting you customize it for different occasions or preferences. Whether you’re serving it as a coffee cake for breakfast or a dessert for gatherings, its flexible nature appeals to newlyweds, seniors, and travelers alike. The apple streusel cake can be tweaked for different diets, enhancing its appeal while keeping that distinctive crispy crumble topping intact.
Distinctive flavor: What sets this apple streusel cake apart is the blend of sweet-tart apples with a cinnamon-spiced crumble, creating a warm, comforting taste that’s hard to resist. The crispy cinnamon crumble topping adds a delightful texture that elevates the whole dish, making it stand out from regular cakes. This unique combination of flavors ensures every slice feels special, perfect for food enthusiasts seeking that homemade charm.

By focusing on these elements, this apple streusel cake becomes more than just a recipe it’s a simple way to bring joy to your table. As you explore this crispy cinnamon crumble delight, you’ll see how it fits seamlessly into daily life for home cooks of all levels.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Apple Streusel Cake
2. Essential Ingredients for Apple Streusel Cake
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Apple Streusel Cake: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Apple Streusel Cake
5. Mastering Apple Streusel Cake: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Apple Streusel Cake: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Streusel Cake
8. Apple Streusel Cake

Essential Ingredients for Apple Streusel Cake

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating a perfect apple streusel cake with its signature crispy cinnamon crumble topping. Each item plays a specific role in building the flavor and texture, ensuring a moist cake with a crunchy top. Below is a comprehensive list of all ingredients, including precise measurements, along with a short explanation of their purpose and benefit to help you understand why they’re essential.

For the Streusel

7 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature – Provides richness and helps bind the streusel for a crumbly texture that melts in your mouth.
½ cup brown sugar, light or dark – Adds deep sweetness and moisture, enhancing the caramel notes in the crispy crumble topping.
1 cup all-purpose flour – Forms the base of the streusel, giving it structure and a satisfying crunch when baked.
¾ teaspoon kosher salt or ½ teaspoon table salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor, making the topping taste more complex.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Infuses warm spice that complements the apples, creating that irresistible crispy cinnamon crumble topping.

For the Cake

2 medium to large apples (about 1 pound) – Adds natural sweetness, moisture, and fiber, while providing a fresh, fruity element that makes the cake wholesome.
10 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature – Contributes to a tender, airy crumb by creaming with sugar for the base of this apple streusel cake.
½ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the batter and helps achieve a light, fluffy texture when beaten with butter.
2 large eggs at room temperature – Acts as a binder and adds moisture, helping the cake rise and stay soft.
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic note that ties all ingredients together.
½ teaspoon almond extract – Adds a subtle nutty undertone, boosting the distinctive taste of the apple streusel cake.
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Forms the structure of the cake, ensuring it holds together while baking to perfection.
Pinch of cloves (adjust to taste) – Introduces a hint of spice that complements the cinnamon and apples for added depth.
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cake rise, resulting in a light and fluffy texture that’s easy to enjoy.
¾ teaspoon kosher salt or ½ teaspoon table salt – Brings out the flavors of the other ingredients, making the cake more balanced.
2 tablespoons milk – Adds moisture to the batter, ensuring the cake remains tender and not too dry.

Special Dietary Options

Vegan: For a plant-based version, swap unsalted butter with an equal amount of vegan margarine or coconut oil, and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) in place of the large eggs to keep the texture intact.
Gluten-free: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it’s suitable for baking to maintain the cake’s structure and the crispy crumble topping.
Low-calorie: Opt for reduced-fat alternatives like low-fat milk and reduce sugar by 25% or use a natural sweetener, while choosing smaller apples to lower the calorie count per serving without losing the apple streusel cake’s appeal.

To naturally weave in terms like crispy cinnamon crumble topping, think of how these ingredients create that beloved texture and flavor profile throughout your apple streusel cake preparation.

How to Prepare the Perfect Apple Streusel Cake: Step-by-Step Guide

Baking the ideal apple streusel cake with crispy cinnamon crumble topping is all about following clear, sequential steps that make the process enjoyable and stress-free. This guide uses precise techniques to ensure your cake turns out moist, flavorful, and full of that signature crunch. With a total preparation time of about 1 hour and 8 minutes, you’ll have a delicious treat ready in no time, perfect for home cooks of any skill level.

First Step: Prepare the Streusel

Start by mixing 7 tablespoons of room temperature unsalted butter, ½ cup brown sugar, 1 cup all-purpose flour, ¾ teaspoon kosher salt or ½ teaspoon table salt, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a bowl until the mixture holds together when squeezed. This creates the crispy cinnamon crumble topping that defines this apple streusel cake. Refrigerate it while you move on, which helps it firm up for better texture about 10 minutes should do the trick, especially if you’re adapting for dietary needs like using gluten-free flour.

Second Step: Preheat and Prep the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure even baking. Grease a 9-inch square baking pan with butter or vegetable shortening, then line it with parchment paper and grease again; flour the pan if it’s not non-stick. This step, which takes just a few minutes, prevents sticking and makes removal easy, allowing the apple streusel cake to bake uniformly while incorporating that crispy crumble topping.

Third Step: Prepare the Apples

Peel and core the 2 medium to large apples (about 1 pound), then cut them into quarters and slice each quarter into four pieces. This preparation ensures the apples cook evenly without becoming mushy, adding fresh bursts of flavor to your apple streusel cake. For variations, consider tossing the slices in a bit of cinnamon for extra spice, which enhances the overall crispy cinnamon crumble effect and adapts well to low-calorie options by using less sugar.

Fourth Step: Make the Batter

Beat 10 tablespoons of room temperature unsalted butter and ½ cup granulated sugar on medium-high speed until light and aerated, about 3-4 minutes, scraping the sides as needed. Add the 2 large eggs one at a time, beating 1-2 minutes after each, then mix in 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon almond extract until combined. In a separate bowl, combine 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, a pinch of cloves, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, and ¾ teaspoon kosher salt or ½ teaspoon table salt; add this to the butter mixture and beat on low just until blended. Gently mix in 2 tablespoons milk to keep the batter smooth and airy, perfect for supporting the apples in this apple streusel cake recipe.

Fifth Step: Assemble and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface evenly. Spread the apple slices over the top, then crumble the chilled streusel mixture over the apples, pressing it into clumps for that irresistible crispy topping. Bake for 30-38 minutes until a toothpick inserted between apples comes out clean, the edges are slightly golden, and the sides pull away from the pan. This step is crucial for achieving the full flavor of apple streusel cake, and you can check for doneness around the 30-minute mark to adjust for different ovens.

Final Step: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the cake cool completely in the pan before slicing this usually takes about 1 hour to ensure it sets properly and maintains its texture. For dietary adaptations, like vegan substitutes, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results. Your apple streusel cake with crispy cinnamon crumble topping is now ready to serve, offering a warm, inviting treat that highlights its versatile nature for busy families or baking enthusiasts. For more ideas on similar desserts, check out our blueberry cream cheese crumb cake recipe for another easy option.

Throughout this process, the focus on crispy cinnamon crumble topping ensures each bite of apple streusel cake is memorable, making it a staple in your baking routine.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Apple Streusel Cake

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

Making substitutions for the main ingredients in your apple streusel cake can help address dietary restrictions or ingredient availability. For instance, if you’re looking to boost protein, replace some of the all-purpose flour with almond flour in a 1:1 ratio to add nutty flavor and more nutrients, which might make the cake slightly denser but still maintain that crispy cinnamon crumble topping. Another option is to swap eggs for applesauce in equal measure for a vegan-friendly version, ensuring the batter binds well without losing moisture. These changes keep the essence of apple streusel cake intact while adapting to needs like gluten-free diets by using certified gluten-free flour blends.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Customizing vegetables or seasonings can refresh your apple streusel cake based on preference or seasonality. Instead of apples, try pears for a softer texture that pairs well with the cinnamon, adjusting quantities to match the original 1 pound to keep the flavor balanced in this crispy crumble recipe. For sauces, reduce the sugar slightly and add a fruit-based glaze for a lighter touch, or modify seasonings by increasing cloves for a spicier version, which enhances the overall taste without overpowering the apple elements. These tweaks ensure your apple streusel cake remains versatile and delicious, even with these variations.

Incorporating these ideas helps preserve the apple streusel cake’s charm while making it adaptable.

Mastering Apple Streusel Cake: Advanced Tips and Variations

Taking your apple streusel cake to the next level involves some pro cooking techniques and creative twists that elevate its crispy cinnamon crumble topping. Start by using a stand mixer for the batter to achieve a lighter texture, ensuring all ingredients are at room temperature for better incorporation. For flavor variations, experiment with adding nuts like chopped pecans to the streusel for extra crunch, or incorporate citrus zest into the batter to brighten the apple notes in this beloved recipe.

Presentation Tips

To make your apple streusel cake look as good as it tastes, dust the top with powdered sugar before serving or arrange fresh apple slices on the plate for a visually appealing touch. Garnishing with a drizzle of caramel can add elegance, turning your cake into a centerpiece for gatherings among food enthusiasts.

Make-Ahead Options

Prepare the streusel up to three days in advance and store it in the fridge, which saves time for busy schedules and keeps the crispy texture intact when baked. This approach makes apple streusel cake ideal for meal prep, allowing you to have a fresh dessert ready with minimal effort on the day. For more inspiration, visit this streusel guide for external tips that complement your baking.

These strategies ensure your apple streusel cake with crispy cinnamon crumble topping shines every time.

How to Store Apple Streusel Cake: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your apple streusel cake fresh and maintains its crispy cinnamon crumble topping. Follow these guidelines to preserve flavor and texture for as long as possible.

Refrigeration

For short-term storage, keep the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to prevent drying out. This method helps retain moisture, especially in the apple layers of your apple streusel cake.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months, preserving the cake’s quality when thawed overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Reheat in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore warmth and crispness, avoiding the microwave to prevent sogginess in the topping of this apple streusel cake.

Meal Prep Considerations

For batch cooking, portion the cake into servings before storing, which makes it easy to grab for quick snacks while keeping flavors intact through proper wrapping.

Storage Method	Duration	Tips
Refrigeration	Up to 3 days	Use airtight container
Freezing	Up to 3 months	Wrap tightly

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Streusel Cake

What types of apples work best for making Apple Streusel Cake?

The best apples for Apple Streusel Cake are firm varieties that hold their shape when baked. Honeycrisp apples are popular due to their balance of sweetness and tartness, remaining crisp and juicy. Granny Smith apples add a tangy flavor and stay firm during baking. Other good options include Ambrosia and Sweet Tango, which also maintain texture and flavor in the cake. Avoid very soft apples, as they can turn mushy and affect the cake’s texture.

How do you make the streusel topping for Apple Streusel Cake?

To make the streusel, combine room temperature butter, brown sugar, flour, a pinch of salt, and ground cinnamon in a bowl. Mix until the dry ingredients are moistened and the mixture clumps together when pinched. The streusel can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to three days. Sprinkle it evenly over the cake batter before baking for a crunchy, sweet topping.

What is the best way to prepare apples for Apple Streusel Cake?

Begin by peeling and coring the apples. Cut them into quarters, then slice each quarter into thin, even slices about a quarter-inch thick. This size helps the apples cook evenly inside the cake without becoming too soft or remaining undercooked. Tossing the slices lightly in cinnamon or lemon juice can add flavor and prevent browning before baking.

How can I tell when Apple Streusel Cake is fully baked?

The cake is done when its edges turn a light golden color and start to pull away slightly from the pan. Gently shaking the pan should show no visible batter movement. Insert a toothpick into the cake between apple slices; it should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs. Avoid poking directly into the apples, as they remain moist and will not provide an accurate test.

What is the best way to store Apple Streusel Cake to keep it fresh?

Store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container or loosely covered with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. It will stay fresh for 2 to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.

Apple Streusel Cake Recipe with Crispy Cinnamon Crumble Topping