Save to Pinterest A moist, spiced cake layered with tender apples and a rich cinnamon swirl, topped with a buttery crumble—perfect for cozy gatherings or afternoon tea.
I first made this cake for a family brunch on a chilly weekend—everyone loved how the apple pieces stayed tender while the crumble added a delicious contrast. It quickly became a favorite for those crisp autumn afternoons.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: Used for both the cake and crumble topping, gives structure and a tender crumb
- Baking powder and baking soda: Help the cake rise for a light texture
- Salt: Balances the sweetness
- Unsalted butter: Adds rich flavor and moisture
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake batter
- Large eggs: Offer structure and richness
- Vanilla extract: Enhances overall flavor
- Whole milk: Contributes moisture and tenderness
- Apples: (2 medium, about 300 g) peeled, cored, and diced for juicy bites throughout the cake
- Brown sugar (for swirl and crumble): Packed, adds deep sweetness to swirl and topping
- Ground cinnamon: Essential for warm spice notes
- Butter (cold, for crumble): Creates a crisp, buttery topping
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds crunch to the crumble
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch (23 cm) round springform or cake pan with parchment paper.
- Dry Ingredients:
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, cream softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in eggs, one at a time. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Gradually add dry mix to wet mixture, alternating with milk. Start and end with flour. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in Apples:
- Carefully fold in diced apples to evenly distribute.
- Prepare Cinnamon Swirl:
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon for swirl in a small bowl.
- Layer Batter and Swirl:
- Pour half the batter into pan, sprinkle half the cinnamon swirl, repeat with remaining batter and cinnamon swirl.
- Marble Swirl:
- With a knife, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture through batter to marbled effect.
- Make Crumble Topping:
- In separate bowl, rub cold butter with flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon until crumbly. Add nuts if desired.
- Top and Bake:
- Sprinkle crumble evenly over cake. Bake 45–55 minutes, or until center tests clean. Cool 15 minutes in pan before transferring to rack.
Save to Pinterest This cake is a must at our family table in fall—my kids love helping with swirling the cinnamon and sprinkling the crumble on top. It’s always the treat everyone asks for seconds of.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special dessert. You can serve chilled for a firmer texture, but it's most delicious fresh from the oven.
Ingredient Swaps
Substitute pears for apples for a creative seasonal twist. For a nut-free version, simply omit walnuts or pecans in the crumble topping.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can gently reheat slices in the oven or microwave before serving.
Save to Pinterest This cinnamon swirl apple crumble cake brings all the warmth of fall into your kitchen—share it with friends for cozy memories. Leftovers make the perfect sweet breakfast too!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute apples with another fruit?
Yes, pears work well for a seasonal twist, giving a similar texture and gentle sweetness.
- → How do I create the cinnamon swirl effect?
Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar between layers of batter and lightly swirl with a knife for a marbled look.
- → Is there a nut-free option?
Omit the walnuts or pecans in the crumble topping for a nut-free version without affecting flavor.
- → What is the best way to serve this cake?
It tastes delicious warm, especially with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- → What kind of pan should I use?
A 9-inch round springform or cake pan is recommended to ensure even baking and easy removal.
- → How do I check if the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is baked perfectly.