Indulging in a slice of homemade crumb cake is one of life's simple pleasures. With its moist, fluffy cake base and that irresistible buttery, crunchy topping, crumb cake has become a beloved classic in the world of desserts. Whether you're looking for the perfect treat to enjoy with your morning coffee, a sweet addition to a brunch spread, or a delightful dessert to share with friends and family, this crumb cake recipe is both moist, delicious, and easy to make. Here's everything you need to know to bake the perfect crumb cake at home.
Ingredients You'll Need
- For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- For the Crumb Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when your cake batter is prepared. Baking the crumb cake at the right temperature is key to achieving that perfect texture.
2. Prepare the Crumb Topping
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, both sugars, and cinnamon.
- Add the cold butter and use a fork, pastry blender, or your fingers to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse sand.
3. Make the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and sour cream.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just blended. Be careful not to overmix, which can lead to a denser cake.
4. Assemble the Cake
- Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the crumb topping over the batter, ensuring an even coverage.
5. Baking
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even cooking if your oven tends to have hotspots.
6. Cooling and Serving
- Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the cake to set and makes it easier to cut.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. This crumb cake is great on its own or with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream.
📌 Note: For an extra touch of flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the crumb topping, giving your cake a delightful aroma and taste.
Can I make this crumb cake ahead of time?
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Yes, you can make the crumb cake a day ahead. Store it covered at room temperature, and it will remain fresh and moist. Reheat slightly for a just-baked taste.
What's the best way to store leftover crumb cake?
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Store leftover crumb cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate if it won't be consumed within that time frame. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 3 months for longer storage.
Can I add fruits or nuts to this recipe?
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Absolutely, feel free to customize! Add berries, chopped apples, or nuts to the batter or sprinkle them over the top before adding the crumb topping for a variation on the classic.
To sum up, this crumb cake recipe offers a sweet escape into the world of homemade baking. It’s straightforward, with ingredients most likely already in your pantry, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers. The combination of a tender, buttery cake with a rich, crumbly topping is timeless, providing satisfaction with each forkful. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting brunch, or simply indulging in a moment of self-care, this moist and delicious crumb cake will be the star of the show. Enjoy the process of making it and the joy of sharing it with those you love.
