Description

This moist and comforting apple crumb cake captures the festive spirit of autumn with its structural contrast between soft, spiced cake and a buttery, crunchy crumb topping. Perfect for family gatherings, this one-pot method ensures bakery-quality results with minimal cleanup. The layers of fresh apples and warm cinnamon make this a reliable staple for any fall occasion or a cozy Sunday breakfast.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups all-purpose flour (for cake)
3 cups all-purpose flour (for crumb)
2 cups brown sugar
2.5 tbsp cinnamon
1 tsp salt
2 cups unsalted butter (1 cup melted for crumb, 1 cup softened for cake)
3 cups fresh apples, diced to 1/4 inch
1 cup sour cream
1.5 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tsp baking powder
0.5 cup milk

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350ºF and prepare a 9×13 inch pan with nonstick spray.
In a large bowl, combine 3 cups flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt; pour in melted butter and mix until sandy clumps form; set aside.
In a separate bowl, whisk together remaining flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
Add half the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture on low speed.
Mix in the sour cream and milk, then add the remaining flour mixture until just combined.
Spread the batter into the prepared pan and top with the diced apples.
Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the apples.
Bake for 80-90 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For a crispier topping, toast the crumbs slightly before adding to the batter.

Prep Time: 25
Cook Time: 90
Category: Baking
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American Baking

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 450
Sugar: 32g
Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Carbohydrates: 65g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 95mg