This Apple Streusel Cake is a warm and cozy treat with sweet apples and a crunchy topping. It’s perfect for sharing with family or enjoying with a cup of tea!
I love how the sweet smell of apples fills my kitchen while it bakes. And let’s be real—who can resist that crumbly topping? It’s the best part! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: I like using Granny Smith for their tartness, which balances the sweetness of the cake. If you prefer sweeter apples, try Fuji or Honeycrisp. You could also mix varieties for added flavor!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you more control over the cake’s saltiness. If you’re in a pinch, you can use margarine or vegetable oil, though it may change the texture slightly.
Flour: All-purpose flour works great here, but if you want a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free all-purpose blend. It should give you a similar texture!
Milk: Whole milk adds richness, but you can substitute almond milk or oat milk if you’re lactose intolerant. Just make sure they are unsweetened for the best results.
How Do I Achieve a Perfectly Crumbly Streusel Topping?
The streusel topping can really make or break this cake, so getting it just right is important! Here’s how to nail it:
- Use cold butter—this helps create that perfect crumbly texture. Cut it into small cubes for easy mixing.
- Combine the dry ingredients first, then add the cold butter. Mix by hand for a coarser texture; a pastry cutter can work too.
- Keep the streusel in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. Chilling helps it hold its shape when baking.
This way, you will have a delightful, crunchy topping that complements the soft cake and sweet apples perfectly!
Apple Streusel Cake
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) milk
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
For the Streusel Topping:
- ¾ cup (100g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (110g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cake takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 50-60 minutes to bake. After baking, let it cool for a bit before slicing and serving. So, in total, you’ll need about 1 hour and 20 minutes to enjoy this delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Streusel Topping:
In a medium bowl, mix the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt together. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until it looks like coarse crumbs. Store this in the fridge while you prepare the cake.
3. Prepare the Cake Batter:
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until it’s light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and give it a quick mix to combine.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk:
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix!
6. Assemble the Cake:
Spread half of the cake batter in the prepared pan. Place the sliced apples on top of this layer evenly. Pour the remaining batter over the apples and spread gently to cover them well.
7. Add the Streusel Topping:
Take your chilled streusel from the fridge and sprinkle it evenly over the top of the batter. This will create a deliciously crunchy topping!
8. Bake the Cake:
Put the cake in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the top is nicely golden brown.
9. Let it Cool:
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial so your cake doesn’t become soggy.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Slice the cake and serve it on its own, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. Enjoy your homemade Apple Streusel Cake! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples add a nice tartness, you can also use sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp. Mixing different types can create a delicious flavor profile!
Can I Make This Cake Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture, and your cake will turn out just as delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I Freeze This Cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving, and warm it gently in the oven for the best texture.