If you are searching for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Apple Streusel Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with tender, cinnamon-kissed apples and crowned with a perfectly crumbly streusel topping, it’s a celebration of autumn flavors that brings comforting sweetness and a delightful texture in every bite. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or simply indulging your own cravings, this cake strikes the perfect balance between juicy fruit and buttery crumb, making it an unforgettable homemade treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Apple Streusel Cake Recipe lies in its use of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create something magical. Each element plays a critical role, from the fragrant cinnamon and fresh apples to the rich butter and fluffy cake base, all contributing layers of flavor and texture that make this cake truly special.
- 2 medium apples, peeled and thinly sliced: Choose crisp, sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture balance.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of the cake’s tender crumb.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes and moisture to the cake batter.
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps the batter achieve a light texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Essential for richness and that melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
- 2 large eggs: They bind everything together and give structure to the cake.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: This gives the cake a beautiful rise.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Infuses the batter with warm, spicy notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a smooth and aromatic depth.
- 1/2 cup milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender.
- For the streusel topping: 1/3 cup all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 cup cold butter cubed—these come together for the irresistible crumbly top.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: For tossing the apples to add sweetness and slight crunch.
- Extra cinnamon: A pinch for tossing the apples, which enhances their natural flavor.
How to Make Apple Streusel Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Apples
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9-inch springform pan so the cake won’t stick and will come out flawlessly. Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples, then toss them with a tablespoon of granulated sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon. This not only sweetens the apples but also elevates their natural flavor, ensuring every bite bursts with autumn spice.
Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping
Next, combine the dry streusel ingredients—flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon—in a bowl. Cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture looks crumbly, almost like coarse sand. Chilling this mixture while you prepare the batter helps keep those buttery crumbs nice and crunchy after baking.
Step 3: Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, giving your cake a lovely airy texture. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the fragrant vanilla extract for a balanced richness. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt, then gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with milk. This keeps the batter smooth and perfectly moist.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Pour half of the batter into your greased pan and spread evenly. Layer the cinnamon-sugar tossed apples over the batter, distributing them carefully so each slice contributes to every forkful. Pour the remaining batter over the apples and spread gently to cover them without mixing, building the cake’s signature layered effect.
Step 5: Add Streusel and Bake
Sprinkle the chilled streusel topping evenly across the surface, making sure to cover every inch for maximum crunch. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling that the cake is perfectly baked with a golden, crispy top.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 to 15 minutes before removing the springform ring. This resting time helps the cake set so it slices neatly. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream to take it to heavenly new heights.
How to Serve Apple Streusel Cake Recipe
Garnishes
This cake is lovely on its own, but topping it with a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream really elevates the experience. For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle some powdered sugar or add a few toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Pair your apple streusel cake with a hot cup of spiced tea, chai latte, or a robust coffee to complement its sweetness and cinnamon notes. For a brunch setting, fresh berries or a light citrus salad offer a bright contrast that balances the richness of the cake beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the cake in individual portions layered with whipped cream and extra streusel in clear glasses for a charming trifle-like dessert. Or, turn it into a decadent parfait by alternating cake cubes with mascarpone cheese and fruit compote. These ideas turn your Apple Streusel Cake Recipe into an eye-catching showstopper perfect for any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cake stays fresh when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for about a week. Keeping it covered prevents it from drying out and preserves the tender crumb and flavorful apple layers.
Freezing
This Apple Streusel Cake Recipe also freezes beautifully. Wrap whole or sliced pieces tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can stay frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in a microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This brings back the fresh-baked warmth and revives the crunchy streusel topping just like on day one.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While firm, sweeter apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp are ideal, you can also use Granny Smith for a tart twist or Gala for a milder sweetness. Just make sure the apples hold their shape well during baking.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that’s designed for one-to-one replacement. Keep an eye on the texture, since gluten-free flours can vary, but the overall flavor will still be wonderful.
Can I prepare the streusel topping ahead of time?
Definitely! The streusel topping can be mixed and refrigerated for up to two days in advance. Keep it chilled until just before assembling the cake to ensure it stays crumbly and delicious.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging, the cake is done. The top should be golden brown and the streusel crisp.
Can I add nuts to the streusel topping?
Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a fantastic addition to the streusel for extra texture and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the apples and cinnamon.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Streusel Cake Recipe is a delightful way to bring cozy, comforting flavors into your home baking. Its perfect combination of tender cake, juicy cinnamon apples, and buttery streusel topping never fails to impress. I encourage you to try it soon and enjoy the smiles it will bring around your table.
Print
Apple Streusel Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Apple Streusel Cake is a delightful dessert featuring tender, cinnamon-spiced apples layered within a moist cake batter and topped with a crunchy, buttery streusel. Perfect for fall or any occasion, this cake combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and vanilla with a sweet, crumbly topping for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 medium apples, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
Streusel Topping
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
Apple Toss
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- Extra cinnamon for tossing apples
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Apples: Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Toss the slices with 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon to coat evenly. Set aside to macerate slightly.
- Make Streusel: In a bowl, combine 1/3 cup flour, 1/3 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Add the cold cubed butter and mix with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Place the streusel in the fridge to chill while you prepare the batter.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and 2/3 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy, which will help give the cake a tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening and spices throughout the cake.
- Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until smooth to avoid overworking the batter.
- Assemble Cake Layers: Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Arrange the cinnamon-sugar coated apple slices in an even layer over the batter.
- Top with Remaining Batter: Pour the remaining batter over the apples and spread gently to cover them fully without pressing too hard.
- Add Streusel Topping: Remove the chilled streusel from the fridge and sprinkle it evenly over the top of the batter for a crunchy, flavorful topping.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
- Cool and Remove from Pan: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes. Then carefully remove the springform ring to avoid damaging the cake sides.
- Serve: Serve the cake warm or at room temperature. For extra indulgence, optionally top with caramel sauce or whipped cream.
Notes
- You can substitute the apples with pears or peaches for variation.
- Make sure the butter for the streusel is cold to achieve the perfect crumbly texture.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and tender.
- Use a toothpick test to ensure the cake is fully baked but not overdone.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; the streusel topping may soften but flavors will meld beautifully.
