Get ready to transform your kitchen into a bakery of dreams with this irresistible Apple Crisp Crumb Cake that will make your taste buds dance with joy! Imagine a dessert that combines the warm, comforting essence of a classic apple pie with the rich, buttery texture of a crumb cake - this recipe is about to become your new obsession. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this American-style dessert promises to deliver a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cups sliced apples
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly using a whisk to ensure even distribution.
- Cut 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter into small cubes. Add to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to create a crumbly texture with pea-sized butter pieces.
- Spread half of this crumb mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a base layer for the cake.
- Peel and slice fresh apples into thin, uniform pieces, approximately 1/4 inch thick. Arrange the apple slices in an even layer over the crumb base.
- In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apple slices to enhance their flavor.
- In another bowl, combine remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup softened butter. Cream together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add eggs to the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This will create a smooth, rich batter.
- Gently fold the remaining crumb mixture over the apple layer, creating a crumbly, textured top. This will give the cake its signature crisp topping.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The cake is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the cake to set and makes cutting easier.
- Slice into 12 even squares. Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence.
Tips
- Apple Selection Matters: Choose firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture. These varieties hold their shape during baking and provide a perfect balance to the sweet crumb topping.
- Keep Butter Cold: When creating the crumb mixture, use cold butter and work quickly to ensure those delightful pea-sized butter pieces that create a flaky, crisp texture.
- Even Apple Slicing: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to create uniform apple slices, which will help the cake bake evenly and look professionally prepared.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and softened butter are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better cake consistency.
- Don't Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to prevent a tough, dense cake.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the cake to cool for at least 15-20 minutes after baking. This helps the cake set and makes cutting into perfect squares much easier.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate this already incredible dessert to new heights of deliciousness!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 50mg
