Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Dutch Apple Cake is the epitome of comfort food, with its moist, tender crumb and the added delight of a crumbly streusel topping. The blend of apples and cinnamon in the cake brings a touch of warmth, while the buttery streusel adds a crunchy contrast. This cake is easy to make and even easier to enjoy, making it a perfect choice for a family dessert or a bake sale treat. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own with a cup of tea, this cake will surely become a favorite.

Ingredients

For the cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk (or substitute with whole milk)
2 cups peeled and chopped apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

For the streusel topping:

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Gently fold in the chopped apples.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
In a separate bowl, prepare the streusel topping. Combine the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the batter.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8-10
Total time: 1 hour
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add nuts: You can mix chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds into the batter or sprinkle them on top of the streusel for added crunch and flavor.
Use other fruits: While apples are classic, you can substitute pears or peaches for a variation on this recipe.
Spiced version: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or cloves to the batter for an extra layer of warmth and spice.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week.
Reheating: To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, you can use other apple varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Braeburn. Choose an apple that is firm and slightly tart for the best texture and flavor.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead and store it in an airtight container. The flavors tend to develop and deepen overnight.

Can I make Dutch Apple Cake without buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk or make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1/2 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. The top should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.

Can I freeze Dutch Apple Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or heat it in the oven before serving.

Can I make this cake without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can use a hand mixer or mix by hand using a whisk and a spatula. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!

How do I make the streusel topping extra crunchy?

For a crunchier streusel, you can add a tablespoon of oats or increase the amount of sugar slightly in the topping mixture.

How can I make this cake dairy-free?

To make this cake dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter and use almond milk or soy milk in place of buttermilk.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust the baking time as needed, checking the cake for doneness after 50 minutes.

Can I make this cake without the streusel topping?

The streusel adds a nice texture and sweetness, but you can omit it if you prefer a simpler cake. You can also drizzle powdered sugar glaze over the top for a lighter alternative.

Conclusion

Dutch Apple Cake is the perfect dessert to celebrate the flavors of fall or enjoy any time of year. With its tender cake, juicy apple chunks, and irresistible streusel topping, this dessert will delight everyone who tries it. Whether you’re enjoying it as a treat with a cup of coffee or serving it to guests, Dutch Apple Cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Easy to make, customizable, and utterly delicious, it’s a dessert that brings warmth and comfort with every bite.