1-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.

2-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.

3-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.

4-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.

5-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.

6-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.