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: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 cups peeled and diced apples (preferably Granny Smith); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the warm flavors of this Apple Crumb Cake, perfectly topped with a sweet and spiced Cinnamon Apple Drizzle.

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:31:03.973Z

This Apple Crumb Cake is the ideal dessert for any occasion, combining the traditional flavors of apples and cinnamon with a crumbly topping that adds texture and sweetness.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, moist cake with a delightful crumb topping
Sweet and spiced apple drizzle that enhances the flavor
Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dessert

      

The Perfect Fall Dessert

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, nothing satisfies quite like a warm slice of apple crumb cake. This delightful dessert captures the essence of autumn with its fragrant blend of spices and fresh apples. The moist cake base provides a comforting foundation, while the crumb topping adds a delightful crunch, making it the perfect treat for cozy gatherings or family nights in.

This recipe not only highlights the seasonal bounty of apples but also invites you to experiment with different varieties. While Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness, feel free to mix in Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for added sweetness. Each bite will transport you to a pumpkin patch or apple orchard, evoking the simple joys of the fall harvest.

Easy Steps to Success

Creating this Apple Crumb Cake is a straightforward process that even novice bakers can master. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a professional bakery. Preparing the cake batter and crumb topping separately ensures that each component has the right texture and flavor, resulting in a beautifully layered cake.

Don't be intimidated by the idea of making a drizzle! The cinnamon apple drizzle comes together in minutes and adds the perfect finishing touch to your cake. Just whisk together a few ingredients, and you’ll have a creamy, sweet glaze that complements the cake beautifully. It’s all about taking your time and enjoying the process, which makes this recipe so rewarding.

Serving Suggestions

This Apple Crumb Cake is versatile enough to serve on various occasions. Whether it's a family gathering, a potluck, or a simple Sunday brunch, this cake is sure to impress. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat, or enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.

For a festive presentation, consider garnishing the top with additional diced apples or a sprinkle of nuts. A dollop of whipped cream can also elevate the dessert, making it feel special. Whatever your choice, this cake is bound to become a beloved recipe in your collection, perfect for sharing and celebrating.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
2 cups peeled and diced apples (preferably Granny Smith)

For the Crumb Topping

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cinnamon Apple Drizzle

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix all ingredients well and prepare for baking!

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Make the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, cream the butter until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla, and mix well. Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with the buttermilk, mixing until just combined. Fold in the diced apples.

Prepare the Crumb Topping

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

Assemble and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Make the Drizzle

While the cake is cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla until smooth.

Serve

Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the cinnamon apple glaze over the top. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious Apple Crumb Cake!

Storage Tips

To keep your Apple Crumb Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating it, where it can last up to a week. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can easily enjoy a piece whenever you crave a taste of fall. Just thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds before indulging.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to customize this Apple Crumb Cake to suit your taste preferences! You can add nuts, such as chopped walnuts or pecans, to the crumb topping for an extra crunch. Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can also be folded into the batter for added flavor and texture.

If you enjoy a bit of zing, consider incorporating lemon or orange zest into the batter. This brightens up the cake and complements the apple flavor beautifully. Experimenting with spices is also a fun way to make this recipe your own; try adding nutmeg or allspice for a unique twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of apples?

Yes, feel free to use any firm apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Just make sure it's well wrapped.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can substitute buttermilk with a mix of milk and vinegar or lemon juice. Use 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.