Can I use canned apples instead of fresh?

Yes, canned apples can work, especially if you’re short on time. Just make sure to drain them well and pat them dry with a paper towel to avoid excess moisture in the batter. You may also want to slightly reduce the sugar in the cake since canned apples often come sweetened.

How do I store leftover apple crumb cake?

You can store leftovers at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days , or refrigerate for a week. If refrigerated, let it come to room temperature before serving, or warm it in the oven for a few minutes to bring back the crumb’s buttery crispness.

What’s the difference between crumb cake and coffee cake?

They’re very similar, but crumb cake typically has a thicker streusel layer , making it heavier on the crumble. Coffee cake, on the other hand, may have a ribbon of cinnamon inside or a thinner topping. Both pair beautifully with a cup of hot coffee.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend (with xanthan gum if your mix doesn’t include it) and make sure your oats are certified gluten-free. The cake will still be moist and flavorful, though a touch more delicate in texture. It’s a great alternative for sharing with guests who are avoiding gluten.

Apple Crumb Cake: Easy, Moist & Irresistible Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

1½ cups all-purpose flour

¾ cup brown sugar

½ cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter (melted)

½ cup cold unsalted butter (for crumb topping)

2 eggs

1½ cups applesauce or 1½ cups finely diced apples

½ cup old-fashioned oats

1 tsp cinnamon (plus more for topping)

1 tsp baking powder

¼ tsp salt

1 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and cold butter. Mix until crumbly and chill.

3. In another bowl, mix applesauce, sugars, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.

5. Stir dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

6. Pour batter into prepared pan and top with crumb mixture.

7. Bake 35–40 minutes or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

8. Cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Use unsweetened applesauce or pre-cooked chopped apples.

Add a powdered sugar glaze for extra sweetness.

Store leftovers at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate up to 1 week.

Author: Chef Saly
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 290
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 160mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 55mg