This Moist Apple Crumb Cake is a celebration of comforting aromas, soft textures, and the irresistible flavor of fresh apples paired with a golden, buttery streusel topping. Simple to make and loved by all, this cake is a nostalgic reminder of homemade baking at its best. Whether served warm with coffee or packed in a lunchbox, each bite is tender, lightly spiced, and filled with juicy apple bits. With a hint of vanilla and cinnamon, a moist crumb thanks to sour cream, and a melt-in-your-mouth crumble topping, this cake is a treat for both everyday and special moments.
Cooking Time
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Preparation time: 20 minutes
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Baking time: 40–45 minutes
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Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
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Servings: 8–10 slices
Ingredients
For the Batter:
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2 large eggs
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¼ tsp salt
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1 tsp vanilla sugar
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½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
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¼ cup (70 ml) vegetable oil
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½ cup (130 g) sour cream
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1¾ cups (220 g) all-purpose flour
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1 tsp baking powder
For the Apple Layer:
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3–4 apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced or diced
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1 tbsp granulated sugar
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Cinnamon to taste
For the Crumb Topping:
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3 tbsp (50 g) all-purpose flour
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3 tbsp granulated sugar
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2 tbsp (40 g) cold butter
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
Step 1: Prepare the batter
In a mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add salt, vanilla sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat the mixture for 4–5 minutes until pale and fluffy.
Step 2: Add oil and sour cream
Pour in the vegetable oil and sour cream. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add dry ingredients
Sift the flour and baking powder together. Gradually fold them into the wet mixture until a smooth, thick batter forms.
Step 4: Prepare the apples
Peel and core the apples, then slice or dice them evenly. Toss them with 1 tablespoon of sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon for that cozy flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the cake
Grease a 9-inch round or rectangular cake pan with butter. Pour in the batter and gently spread it evenly. Layer the apples on top of the batter.
Step 6: Make the crumb topping
In a small bowl, combine flour, sugar, and cold butter. Rub together with your fingertips until crumbs form. Sprinkle the crumble over the apples.
Step 7: Bake the cake
Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Bake the cake for 40–45 minutes or until golden on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and serve
Let the cake cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approximate)
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Calories: 270
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Protein: 4g
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Carbohydrates: 32g
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Fat: 14g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 18g
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Sodium: 120mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Apple cakes have long been a part of European and American home baking traditions, especially in fall and winter. Variations can be found in German “Apfelkuchen,” French tarte tatin, and American apple spice cakes. What sets this version apart is its streusel topping, which originated in Central Europe and has become a beloved element in many crumb-topped desserts. Its popularity lies in the balance of flavors and textures—moist cake, sweet apples, and crunchy topping—making it a timeless favorite across generations.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Simple ingredients: Everything you need is already in your pantry.
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Versatile: Great for breakfast, snack, or dessert.
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Comfort food: Warm spices and apples create a cozy, nostalgic feeling.
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Moist and tender: The sour cream makes the texture incredibly soft.
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Crowd-pleaser: Always a hit at potlucks, family dinners, and bake sales.
Health Benefits
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Apples are rich in dietary fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C.
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Eggs provide high-quality protein and important nutrients like choline.
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Cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar and contains anti-inflammatory properties.
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Sour cream, when used moderately, adds probiotics and calcium.
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Homemade means no preservatives or artificial flavors—just clean, honest ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
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With tea or coffee: A perfect match for afternoon breaks.
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Topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
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Drizzled with caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
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Served warm with a scoop of Greek yogurt for a breakfast treat.
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On a brunch table next to savory quiches or breakfast casseroles.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Overmixing the batter: Can lead to a dense, dry cake. Mix just until smooth.
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Not greasing the pan: Always butter the pan or use parchment for easy removal.
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Too much moisture in apples: If apples are overly juicy, blot them before layering.
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Underbaking: Always test with a toothpick to ensure the center is fully set.
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Skipping the crumb topping: It’s what makes this cake special—don’t leave it out!
Pairing Recommendations
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Drinks: Apple cider, spiced tea, coffee with cream, or a mild white wine.
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Other dishes: Pairs well with sharp cheese platters, yogurt parfaits, or a savory brunch.
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Fruits: Serve with fresh berries or orange slices for a refreshing contrast.
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Sauces: Vanilla custard, crème anglaise, or honey-lemon drizzle work beautifully.
Cooking Tips
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Room temperature ingredients blend better and create a smoother batter.
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Chill the crumble topping if the kitchen is warm to keep the butter firm.
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Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Fuji for the best flavor contrast.
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Don’t skip the cinnamon, but you can add nutmeg or cardamom for extra depth.
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Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the crumble for added crunch.
Similar Recipes to Try
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Classic Apple Cinnamon Muffins
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German Apfelkuchen (Apple Cake)
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French Apple Tart with Almond Cream
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Crumb-Topped Blueberry Coffee Cake
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Pear and Ginger Loaf Cake
Variations to Try
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Add raisins or chopped dates to the apple layer for extra sweetness.
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Swap apples with pears, peaches, or plums.
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Make it nutty by adding crushed walnuts or almonds to the topping.
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Use brown sugar instead of white for a caramelized flavor.
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Add spices like allspice, nutmeg, or ginger to warm up the flavor profile.
Ingredient Spotlight: Apples
Apples are the star of this cake, providing sweetness, moisture, and a delightful tartness. Best choices include Fuji, Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Golden Delicious. They hold their shape well during baking and balance the sugar in the batter. Apples are also rich in antioxidants, fiber, and pectin, which supports gut health and cholesterol regulation. When paired with cinnamon and a buttery crumb, apples transform a simple cake into a comforting, aromatic masterpiece.
Conclusion
This Moist Apple Crumb Cake is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a warm hug on a plate. With its tender texture, aromatic cinnamon apples, and buttery crumble topping, it’s a dessert that brings joy to every table. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a cozy Sunday brunch, or simply to enjoy the smell of apples baking in the oven, this cake is guaranteed to win hearts. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked for life.
10 Comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, it keeps well for up to 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature or up to 5 days in the fridge.
2. What type of apples should I use?
Tart and firm apples like Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp are ideal.
3. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven.
4. Can I make it without sour cream?
Yes. Greek yogurt or buttermilk are great substitutes.
5. Is the crumble topping necessary?
While optional, it adds a delightful texture and flavor. You can skip it, but it’s highly recommended.
6. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for best results.
7. How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean with a few moist crumbs.
8. Can I use whole wheat flour?
You can replace up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a denser, nuttier cake.
9. How do I prevent soggy apple layers?
Use firm apples and avoid overly ripe or juicy ones. You can also lightly sauté apples before adding them.
10. Can I add nuts or raisins?
Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or golden raisins work well in both the batter and crumble.