Apple Crumb Cake – Topped with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle

Name: Apple Crumb Cake – Topped with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups peeled and diced apples; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the warm flavors of fall with this Apple Crumb Cake, drizzled with a sweet cinnamon glaze. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy afternoon tea.

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2025-12-18T16:00:40.236Z

This Apple Crumb Cake is a family favorite, combining the richness of apples with a crumbly topping and a sweet cinnamon drizzle. It’s perfect for any occasion!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm and comforting apple flavor
Crispy crumb topping with a hint of cinnamon
Perfect balance of sweetness and spice

      

A Taste of Fall

As autumn approaches, the air turns crisp, and the leaves begin to fall, inviting us to indulge in the comforting flavors of the season. This Apple Crumb Cake embodies everything we love about fall, from the sweet aroma of apples to the warming hint of cinnamon. Each bite is a tribute to the bounty of the harvest, making it a delightful addition to any gathering or a cozy afternoon at home.

The use of fresh, diced apples not only enhances the flavor but also adds moisture to the cake, ensuring a tender crumb. Coupled with the crunchy crumb topping, this cake offers a delightful contrast in texture. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and joy.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Apple Crumb Cake is versatile enough to suit any occasion. It can be served warm, straight from the oven, or at room temperature, making it ideal for potlucks, brunches, or even as a delicious dessert after dinner. The sweet cinnamon drizzle elevates the cake, giving it an irresistible finish that will impress your guests.

For those special moments, consider pairing this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The warm cake and cold toppings create a delightful interplay of temperatures and flavors, making each bite an unforgettable experience. Not only will it satisfy your sweet tooth, but it also brings a sense of nostalgia, reminding us of family traditions and cherished memories.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Apple Crumb Cake turns out perfectly, start with the freshest apples you can find. Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp offer the best balance of sweetness and tartness, enhancing the overall flavor of the cake. Also, be sure to chop the apples into uniform pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the batter.

When preparing the crumb topping, don't rush the process. Mixing until crumbly is key; this ensures a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake. Lastly, let the cake cool slightly before drizzling with the cinnamon glaze. This allows the drizzle to set just enough, creating a beautiful presentation that’s perfect for serving.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups peeled and diced apples

For the Crumb Topping

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Cinnamon Drizzle

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.

In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until just combined. Fold in the diced apples.

Make the Crumb Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon until crumbly.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter. Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Prepare the Cinnamon Drizzle

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and cinnamon until smooth. Drizzle over the warm cake before serving.

Enjoy!

Storing and Freezing

If you have leftovers (which is often unlikely with this delicious cake!), storing it is simple. Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it, but be sure to allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

For those who want to prepare in advance, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it gently before serving.

Customization Ideas

One of the best aspects of this Apple Crumb Cake is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different types of fruit. Pears, peaches, or even berries can be used in place of apples for a unique twist on the classic recipe. Each fruit brings its own flavor profile, allowing you to create a cake that suits your taste preferences.

Additionally, consider adding nuts or raisins to the crumb topping for extra texture and flavor. Walnuts or pecans can provide a delightful crunch, while raisins or cranberries can introduce a hint of tartness. These variations not only enhance the cake's flavor but also make it a fun, customizable dessert for any season.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Yes, pears or peaches would work well as substitutes.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake before adding the drizzle. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce.