Wake up to the warm, comforting flavors of this Apple Crumb Cake, a delightful addition to your healthy breakfast ideas. Bursting with sweet apples and topped with a crunchy double cinnamon streusel, this moist, spiced cake is perfect for cozy mornings, brunch gatherings, or a make-ahead treat for guests. Ready in just over an hour, this Apple Crumb Cake is easy to prepare, naturally sweetened, and drizzled with optional caramel sauce for a touch of indulgence. Try this wholesome healthy breakfast idea that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Apple Crumb Cake Recipe
This Apple Crumb Cake is a standout healthy breakfast idea, blending comforting flavors with simple preparation. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Quick and Easy: Uses a reverse creaming method for a no-fuss, velvety cake ready in just over an hour.
- Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with apples and naturally sweetened with brown sugar for a nutritious start to your day.
- Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a cozy snack, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Stays moist and delicious, perfect for preparing the day before for stress-free mornings.
- Irresistible Texture: Combines a dense, moist cake with a crunchy cinnamon streusel for the ultimate healthy breakfast idea.
Ingredients for Apple Crumb Cake
To prepare this wholesome Apple Crumb Cake (serves 8-10), gather these ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (50g) white sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and diced (or Gala/Honeycrisp for sweeter flavor)
For the Crumb Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (50g) white sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp baking powder
Optional:
- Caramel sauce, for drizzling
Ingredient Tips:
- Apples: Granny Smith adds tartness; sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp work for a milder flavor.
- Butter: Use unsalted for control over flavor; softened for the cake, melted for the crumb topping.
- Flour: All-purpose flour is ideal; sift if lumpy to ensure a smooth batter.
- Cinnamon: Essential for warmth; substitute with nutmeg if needed, but cinnamon is key for this healthy breakfast idea.
How to Make Apple Crumb Cake
Follow these steps to create a cozy Apple Crumb Cake:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or 9×9 square pan with butter or non-stick spray.
- Make the Crumb Topping: In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup white sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp baking powder, and 6 tbsp melted butter. Mix with a whisk or fork until clumpy and crumbly. Set aside.
- Prepare the Cake Batter (Reverse Creaming): In a large bowl, mix 1 cup flour, 1/4 cup white sugar, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp salt, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1/2 cup softened butter until crumbly. Add 1/4 cup milk, 2 eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Cake: Spread half the batter into the prepared pan. Layer with half the diced apples and a sprinkle of crumb topping (optional for extra cinnamon flavor). Add the remaining batter, top with the rest of the apples, and sprinkle the remaining crumb topping evenly over the top, breaking up larger clumps for texture.
- Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the topping is golden. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edges and remove from the springform (if using).
- Serve: Slice and serve warm or at room temperature, drizzled with caramel sauce if desired, for a perfect healthy breakfast idea.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: 60-65 minutes
Calories: ~320 per serving (based on 10 servings)
Servings: 8-10
Macros per Serving: 45g carbs, 5g protein, 14g fat, 2g fiber
Tips for the Perfect Apple Crumb Cake
- Reverse Creaming: Mix butter with dry ingredients first for a velvety, dense texture that supports the apples and topping.
- Apple Prep: Dice apples evenly for consistent texture; peel for a smoother bite in this healthy breakfast idea.
- Crumb Texture: Squeeze topping mixture to form clumps, then break apart for a rustic, crunchy finish.
- Don’t Overbake: Check at 45 minutes to avoid drying out; a toothpick should come out clean.
- Pan Choice: A springform pan makes for easy release; a square pan works for a more casual look.
Creative Variations for Apple Crumb Cake
Customize this Apple Crumb Cake with these delicious twists:
- Nutty Crunch: Add 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumb topping for extra texture.
- Spice Boost: Include a pinch of nutmeg or allspice in the batter for deeper warmth.
- Fruit Swap: Mix in diced pears or berries with the apples for a fruity twist in this healthy breakfast idea.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Vegan Option: Swap butter for plant-based butter, eggs for flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg), and milk for almond milk.
Serving and Presentation Tips
This Apple Crumb Cake is a versatile healthy breakfast idea that shines at any occasion. Try these serving ideas:
- Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce for a cozy breakfast or brunch centerpiece.
- Pair with a hot coffee, tea, or a summer drink like apple cider for a refreshing contrast.
- Present on a rustic cake stand with a dusting of powdered sugar for an inviting, Instagram-worthy look.
- Offer with a side of Greek yogurt or fresh fruit for a balanced healthy breakfast idea.
- Slice into squares for easy grab-and-go portions at morning gatherings or potlucks.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container or cake carrier at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- Refrigerate: For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week; warm slightly before serving to restore texture.
- Freeze: Freeze the whole cake or slices, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil, for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Make Ahead: Bake the cake a day in advance; it stays moist and flavorful, perfect for overnight guests.
FAQs About Apple Crumb Cake
Is crumb cake the same as coffee cake?
Yes, crumb cake is a type of coffee cake, distinguished by its thick streusel topping. This Apple Crumb Cake fits both categories, making it a great healthy breakfast idea.
Can I swap or leave out the apples?
You can swap apples for pears or berries, but apples are key for the classic flavor. Omitting them would change the texture and taste significantly.
Can I make this cake as muffins?
Yes! Divide batter and topping into a greased 12-cup muffin tin and bake for 20-25 minutes at 350°F for individual healthy breakfast ideas.
Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! Freeze slices or the whole cake, wrapped tightly, for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make this Apple Crumb Cake gluten-free without sacrificing texture.
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Conclusion
This Apple Crumb Cake is a warm, wholesome healthy breakfast idea that brings cozy flavors to your mornings. Perfect for family breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or a make-ahead treat, it’s easy, naturally sweetened, and packed with apple-cinnamon goodness. Try this recipe today and enjoy a slice of comfort that’s as delicious as it is nutritious!
Apple Crumb Cake
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup 120g all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup 50g white sugar
- 1/2 cup 100g light brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup 115g unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup 60ml milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 Granny Smith apples peeled, cored, and diced (or Gala/Honeycrisp for sweeter flavor)
For the Crumb Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups 180g all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup 100g light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup 50g white sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 6 tbsp 85g unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or 9x9 square pan with butter or non-stick spray.
- Make the Crumb Topping: In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup white sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp baking powder, and 6 tbsp melted butter. Mix with a whisk or fork until clumpy and crumbly. Set aside.
- Prepare the Cake Batter (Reverse Creaming): In a large bowl, mix 1 cup flour, 1/4 cup white sugar, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp salt, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1/2 cup softened butter until crumbly. Add 1/4 cup milk, 2 eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Cake: Spread half the batter into the prepared pan. Layer with half the diced apples and a sprinkle of crumb topping (optional for extra cinnamon flavor). Add the remaining batter, top with the rest of the apples, and sprinkle the remaining crumb topping evenly over the top, breaking up larger clumps for texture.
- Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the topping is golden. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edges and remove from the springform (if using).
- Serve: Slice and serve warm or at room temperature, drizzled with caramel sauce if desired, for a perfect healthy breakfast idea.
Notes
- Reverse Creaming: Mix butter with dry ingredients first for a velvety, dense texture that supports the apples and topping.
- Apple Prep: Dice apples evenly for consistent texture; peel for a smoother bite in this healthy breakfast idea.
- Crumb Texture: Squeeze topping mixture to form clumps, then break apart for a rustic, crunchy finish.
- Don’t Overbake: Check at 45 minutes to avoid drying out; a toothpick should come out clean.
- Pan Choice: A springform pan makes for easy release; a square pan works for a more casual look.
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