Easy Apple Streusel Cake Recipe

Imagine biting into a soft, comforting slice of pure bliss—our easy apple streusel cake recipe is bound to become your new favorite dessert! With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this treat captures the essence of autumn in every bite. If you’re looking for a delightful way to enjoy apples, this is the perfect recipe for you.

This cake holds a special place in my family’s heart. Every fall, my grandmother would bake this aromatic cake for our Sunday gatherings. The combination of sweet apples and the crumbly streusel topping evokes cherished memories around the kitchen table, where laughter was as abundant as the dessert itself.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this cake. The apple streusel cake offers a fantastic texture from the tender crumb cake paired with a crispy streusel topping. It’s a simple yet elegant dessert you can whip up in no time, making it perfect for both weekday treats and special occasion indulgences. Plus, the use of natural apple sweetness means you can cut down on added sugars without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients Notes

For this recipe, choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, which hold up well during baking. The streusel topping, a mix of flour, brown sugar, and butter, adds texture and a sweet contrast. For those who love nuts, adding chopped walnuts or pecans can elevate the flavor profile. If you’re missing one or two ingredients, no worries—simple substitutions can still yield a delicious result.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch round cake pan. This prevents the cake from sticking and ensures easy removal once baked.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, combine the sliced apples with a tablespoon of sugar and a teaspoon of cinnamon. This step enhances the natural sweetness of the apples during baking.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir in the sugar followed by softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 4

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, then evenly distribute the apple mixture on top. Gently press down the apples into the batter to keep them from floating as the cake bakes.

Step 5

Combine ingredients for the streusel: flour, brown sugar, and cold butter, creating a coarse, crumbly texture. Sprinkle over the apples and bake for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Storage Options

Leftover cake should be covered with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it can be kept for up to three months. When ready to serve, let it thaw at room temperature and briefly reheat in the oven.

Variations & Substitutions

If you’re vegan, substitute butter with vegan alternatives and eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water. Add a zest of lemon for a citrusy twist, or incorporate seasonal fruits like pears for a unique flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this scrumptious cake warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s perfect as a warm dessert on a chilly autumn evening or as a sweet breakfast treat alongside your morning coffee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake gluten-free? Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure the baking powder is a gluten-free product. The texture might be slightly different, but still delectable.

Do I need to peel the apples? It depends on your preference. Leaving the peel on adds texture and nutrients; however, if you’re aiming for a softer texture, peeling the apples is recommended.

What type of apples is best for this cake? Firm and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are ideal. They retain their shape during baking and balance the sweetness of the cake perfectly.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner just trying your hand at dessert-making, this cake is an absolute delight that captures the cozy essence of fall in every bite. Anpass it to your taste and dietary needs, and enjoy the comforting flavors it brings to your table!

Easy Apple Streusel Cake Recipe

This delicious apple streusel cake is quick and easy to make, perfect for any occasion. A moist cake base topped with a sweet and crumbly streusel.

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Course: Dessert, Snack

Kitchen: American

Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour

Servings: 8 slices

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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• ▢ For the Cake:
• ▢ 1/2 lb 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
• ▢ 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• ▢ 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• ▢ 3 large eggs
• ▢ 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ▢ 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ▢ 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon salt
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ▢ 1/2 cup sour cream
• ▢ 1 1/2 cups peeled and chopped apples firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith
• ▢ For the Streusel Topping:
• ▢ 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• ▢ 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• ▢ 3 tablespoons cold butter cut into pieces
• ▢ 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional

Instructions

• Preheat the Oven:
• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square baking pan.
• Prepare the Streusel:
• In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. Stir in nuts if using. Set aside.
• Make the Cake Batter:
• In a large bowl, cream the butter and both sugars until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
• Add Dry Ingredients:
• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
• Combine Everything:
• Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter, alternating with sour cream. Mix just until combined. Fold in the chopped apples.
• Assemble and Bake:
• Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle the streusel topping over the batter.
• Bake:
• Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!