If you love the warm flavours of apple pie and the softness of coffee cake, this Apple Crumb Cake is the perfect treat for you. It’s soft, moist, and lightly spiced, with a layer of sweet apples in the middle and a crunchy, sugary crumb topping. It’s the kind of cake you’ll want to enjoy with a hot cup of chai or coffee—ideal for breakfast, teatime, or dessert.
Made with simple ingredients like apples, yogurt, maple syrup, and cinnamon, this cake brings together cosy flavours that feel like a warm hug on a cool day. Let’s learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients You Will Need
For the Crumb Topping:
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 2/3 cup yogurt (plain, vanilla, Greek yogurt, or buttermilk/sour cream)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 medium apples (peeled and cored)
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
How to Make Apple Crumb Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour an 8-inch (20cm) square cake pan. This helps prevent the cake from sticking.
Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping
In a medium bowl, mix brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the melted butter and mix using a fork. Add flour and stir just until combined. Do not overmix. Set aside the crumb mixture.
Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, mix the yogurt, brown sugar, oil, and maple syrup.
Finely chop or grate one apple and mix it into the wet ingredients. Slice the other apple thinly, toss it with lemon juice, and keep it aside for topping.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gently. The batter will be thick, but don’t worry—it’s supposed to be that way. Don’t overmix. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top.
Step 5: Add Apple Slices and Crumb Topping
Layer the apple slices over the top of the batter. Then sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the apples.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake the cake for around 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting and serving. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature.
A Perfect Anytime Cake—Soft, Spiced, and Full of Apple Goodness
This Apple Crumb Cake brings together the best of both worlds—the comforting flavours of apple pie and the tender texture of a good coffee cake. Whether served for breakfast, at a family tea party, or after dinner, this cake will always be a hit. The spiced apples and crumbly topping make it warm, comforting, and perfect for any time of the year.
FAQs
What type of apples should I use for this cake?
You can use any sweet or slightly tart apples like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape well and give a nice flavour.
Can I use curd instead of yogurt?
Yes, plain Indian curd can be used as a substitute for yogurt. Just make sure it’s not too watery.
Can I make this cake without maple syrup?
Yes, you can use honey or just increase the brown sugar slightly if you don’t have maple syrup.
How do I store leftover apple crumb cake?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate and reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, once the cake is completely cooled, wrap it well and freeze for up to a month. Thaw and warm slightly before eating.
