Name: Apple Cinnamon Crumb Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter; 1 cup milk or buttermilk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled and diced; For the crumb topping:; 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed; Optional glaze:; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1–2 tbsp milk or cream; 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake combines the best of two worlds—fluffy cinnamon cake and the irresistible crunch of a crumb topping. The apples add natural sweetness and moisture, while the topping provides texture and richness. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how it makes your kitchen smell like fall. It’s versatile enough for a casual snack, yet special enough for holidays and gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cake:

Apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled and diced
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Salt
Eggs
Milk or buttermilk
Vegetable oil or melted butter
Vanilla extract

For the crumb topping:

All-purpose flour
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Cold unsalted butter, cubed

Optional glaze:

Powdered sugar
Milk or cream
Vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
Make the crumb topping: In a bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
Prepare the cake batter: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla until well combined.
Stir wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in the diced apples.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool slightly before drizzling with glaze or dusting with powdered sugar.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40–45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping for crunch.
Stir raisins or dried cranberries into the cake batter.
Use apple pie spice instead of just cinnamon for more depth.
Bake in a springform pan for a more elegant presentation.
Add a caramel drizzle instead of glaze for a decadent twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes.
This cake can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap slices individually for easy thaw-and-serve portions.

FAQs

What apples are best for crumb cake?

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are excellent because they hold their shape and add balanced flavor.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it stays moist for days and tastes even better the next day.

Can I double the crumb topping?

Absolutely—if you love extra crumb, make 1.5–2 times the topping.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for a softer texture, but you can leave them on for a rustic look.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, replace up to half of the all-purpose flour for a heartier flavor.

How do I know when the cake is done?

A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.

Can I bake this in a round pan?

Yes, a 9-inch springform pan works well—adjust baking time as needed.

Is glaze necessary?

No, it’s optional. Powdered sugar dusting or a caramel drizzle works just as well.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour and certified GF oats if adding.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm before serving.

Conclusion

Apple cinnamon crumb cake is a cozy, comforting dessert that combines tender spiced cake, juicy apples, and a crunchy topping. Easy to make and versatile for any occasion, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a family favorite. Serve it warm with a drizzle of glaze or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.