Apple Crumb Cake w/ Cinnamon Apple Drizzle: An Incredible 5-Step Recipe

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-10-14T18:28:58.883Z

Apple Crumb Cake w/ Cinnamon Apple Drizzle is an amazing treat that brings together the rich flavors of apples and the comforting goodness of cake topped with a delightful drizzle. This decadent dessert combines the sweetness of baked apples with a crunchy crumb topping and a warm cinnamon drizzle that tantalizes your taste buds. Perfect for fall gatherings or as a cozy evening treat, this cake offers a wonderful experience for anyone who loves apple-flavored desserts. Each bite explodes with flavor, making it hard to resist going back for another slice.

The first time I tasted this Apple Crumb Cake, I was struck by the incredible balance of textures and flavors. The soft, moist cake underneath provides a warm base for the tender, caramelized apples. The crunch of the crumb topping adds delightful contrast. Finally, the cinnamon drizzle ties everything together, elevating the dish to new heights. If you’re looking for a dessert that wow’s everyone at the table, this is it!

In this guide, you will discover why this recipe is so special, how to make it, and tips for serving it to perfection. Whether you are a novice in the kitchen or an experienced baker, the wonderful Apple Crumb Cake w/ Cinnamon Apple Drizzle is sure to impress all who taste it. Let’s embark on this delicious journey together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Apple Crumb Cake w/ Cinnamon Apple Drizzle is not just another dessert; it’s an experience that everyone will cherish. Here are several reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

  1. Simple Ingredients – Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or easily accessible at your local grocery store.
  2. Deliciously Flavorful – The combination of fresh apples, cinnamon, and crumb topping creates an irresistible flavor profile.
  3. Versatile Dish – This cake can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or even chilled, making it perfect for any occasion.
  4. Ideal for Gatherings – Whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or a casual get-together, this cake is sure to be a conversation starter.
  5. Visually Stunning – The beautiful layers and toppings make for a delightful presentation that you’ll be proud to serve.
  6. Easy to Follow Steps – The straightforward instructions allow even novice bakers to create something magnificent.

These factors contribute to the appeal of this recipe, leaving everyone who tries it asking for seconds!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating this amazing Apple Crumb Cake w/ Cinnamon Apple Drizzle will take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Here's how that time breaks down:

  • Preparation Time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Cooling Time: 15-20 minutes

These times may vary based on your kitchen equipment and familiarity with the recipe, but this guideline will help you plan your baking adventure.

Ingredients

  • For the Cake:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 3 cups peeled and diced apples (such as Granny Smith)
  • For the Crumb Topping:
  • 1 cup old-fashioned oats
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ cup cold butter, cubed
  • For the Cinnamon Apple Drizzle:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your own Apple Crumb Cake w/ Cinnamon Apple Drizzle:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  3. Cream Butter and Eggs: In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture alternately with buttermilk, mixing until just combined. Fold in the diced apples.
  5. Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
  6. Make Crumb Topping: In a separate bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over the batter.
  7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  9. Prepare the Drizzle: In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and cinnamon until smooth and drizzling consistency.
  10. Drizzle Over Cake: Once the cake is cool, drizzle the cinnamon glaze over the top.

By following these steps, you'll have a vibrant Apple Crumb Cake with a delightful topping that everyone will enjoy!

How to Serve

Serving your Apple Crumb Cake w/ Cinnamon Apple Drizzle invites several thoughtful considerations:

  1. Presentation: Place the cake on a decorative platter or cake stand to elevate its appearance. Consider cutting slices that showcase the beautiful crumb topping.
  2. Accompaniments: For an added touch, serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh apple slices could also complement the dish beautifully.
  3. Beverage Pairing: Pair it with a warm cup of tea, cider, or coffee to enhance the cozy experience of this dessert.
  4. Storage: If there are leftovers, store them covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Reheating gently in the microwave will revive that fresh-baked flavor.
  5. Festive Garnish: Sprinkling toppings like crushed nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top before serving can add a lovely final touch.

This approach to serving the cake will create an experience that warms hearts and delights taste buds! Enjoy every detail that makes this dish special!

Additional Tips

  • Use Fresh Apples: Opt for fresh, crisp apples as they contribute to the flavor and texture of the cake. Granny Smith apples are an excellent choice due to their tartness, which balances the sweetness.
  • Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
  • Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cake, feel free to reduce the sugar in the batter or the cinnamon drizzle to suit your taste.
  • Spice It Up: Enhance the flavor by adding nutmeg or allspice to the batter, providing a warm hint of spice to the overall dish.
  • Perfect Serving Temperature: This cake is delightful warm, but it also tastes incredible at room temperature. Experiment to find your preferred way to enjoy it.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to make this recipe your own! Here are some delicious variations to try:

  1. Gluten-Free Option: To make the cake gluten-free, substitute regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
  2. Add Nuts: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans into the cake batter for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
  3. Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce into the batter before baking for a sweet addition that complements the apples beautifully.
  4. Different Apple Varieties: Experiment with various apple types such as Honeycrisp or Fuji to discover unique flavor combinations.
  5. Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, add a chocolate drizzle instead of the cinnamon drizzle for a sweet chocolate touch.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage: Keep the Apple Crumb Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its freshness, refrigerate it for up to a week.
  • Freezing: This cake freezes exceptionally well. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture.

Special Equipment

To prepare Apple Crumb Cake w/ Cinnamon Apple Drizzle, you will need the following kitchen tools:

  • Mixing bowls: For your wet and dry ingredients.
  • Whisk: To combine dry ingredients and to mix the batter.
  • Electric mixer: For creaming the butter and sugar easily.
  • 9×13 inch baking pan: The perfect size for baking your cake evenly.
  • Rubber spatula: For folding in apples and ensuring no flour mixture remains.
  • Wire rack: To cool the cake properly after baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

To check if your cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with few crumbs, the cake is ready.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake can be baked a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature to allow the flavors to develop further.

Is this cake suitable for dietary restrictions?

You can adapt the recipe easily. Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version or substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free option.

Can I add frosting instead of the drizzle?

Absolutely! While the cinnamon drizzle adds a unique flavor, a cream cheese or buttercream frosting could provide a delicious alternative.

What should I do if my cake comes out dry?

To avoid a dry cake, ensure you do not overmix the batter and check the baking time carefully. You can also add a touch more buttermilk for moisture.

Conclusion

The Apple Crumb Cake w/ Cinnamon Apple Drizzle is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of fall in every bite. Its combination of soft cake layers, tender apples, and the crunchy topping creates a dessert that is not only visually appealing but also a feast for the taste buds. Whether you are hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a cozy evening, this cake will leave a lasting impression. The flavors are a true celebration of autumn, and the cinnamon drizzle elevates it to a whole new level of indulgence. Enjoy making this wonderful dish, and savor each slice!