Apple Streusel Cake

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Golden, tender, and filled with comforting layers of spiced apples, the Apple Streusel Cake is a true celebration of fall flavors in every bite. The moist cake base is rich with cinnamon and brown sugar, while the crisp, buttery streusel topping adds irresistible texture. And when served warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce, it becomes a dessert that’s not just satisfying—it’s unforgettable.

Whether you’re baking it for a holiday gathering, a cozy brunch, or just to fill your kitchen with the scent of apples and spice, this cake delivers. It’s simple enough for a weekday treat, yet elegant enough to be the star of any dessert table. Paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of hot coffee, it’s a slice of comfort that brings everyone back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Streusel Cake

This cake hits that perfect balance of sweet, spiced, and buttery. You get the tenderness of a classic coffee cake, the warmth of cinnamon-sugar baked apples, and the crunch of a golden streusel topping. It’s not overly fussy but always impressive, and it stores beautifully—if there’s any left, that is!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create this Apple Streusel Cake, a few essential tools will make the job smoother and more enjoyable:

• Mixing Bowls: At least two medium to large bowls are needed—one for dry ingredients and one for the wet.
• Hand or Stand Mixer: For creaming the butter and sugar to create a fluffy, airy cake base.
• Spatula: Ideal for folding in the apples gently without overmixing the batter.
• Springform Pan: Allows easy removal of the cake without damaging the streusel topping.
• Pastry Cutter or Fork: Helps blend the streusel topping into perfect crumbles.
• Cooling Rack: Ensures the cake cools evenly and avoids sogginess on the bottom.

Each of these tools plays a role in the success of your bake—don’t skip them if you want a flawless cake.

Preparation Tips

Use tart, firm apples like Granny Smith to keep the cake from becoming overly sweet or mushy. Always peel and dice your apples uniformly to ensure even baking. When making the streusel, cold butter is key—it creates that signature crumbly texture. Be sure not to overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added; you want to preserve the cake’s soft and tender crumb. Finally, don’t skip the cooling time—letting the cake rest allows flavors to meld and the texture to set beautifully.

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Ingredients for this Apple Streusel Cake

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 cups peeled and diced tart apples (such as Granny Smith)

For the Streusel Topping:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

Optional Topping:

• Warm caramel sauce for drizzling

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper on the bottom. This ensures the cake releases cleanly and maintains its shape.

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Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This dry mix will create the structure and flavor base of your cake.

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Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with both sugars using a hand or stand mixer on medium speed. Beat until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes. This step ensures a light, tender crumb.

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Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.

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Step 5: Add Sour Cream and Milk

Mix in the sour cream and milk until well combined. These ingredients contribute moisture and richness to the cake.

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Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed or folding with a spatula just until combined. Do not overmix, as it can toughen the cake.

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Step 7: Fold in the Apples

Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed. The apples should be coated and suspended in the batter without sinking.

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Step 8: Make the Streusel

In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or fork to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

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Step 9: Assemble the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan and smooth the top. Evenly sprinkle the streusel mixture over the batter.

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Step 10: Bake

Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and crisp from the streusel.

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Step 11: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then remove the sides of the springform pan. Let it cool completely on a wire rack. Drizzle with warm caramel sauce before serving for an extra indulgent touch.

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Notes

This cake is incredibly versatile. You can substitute pears or mixed berries for apples if you want to experiment with other fruits. If you’re a fan of extra spice, add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for an even warmer flavor. The sour cream in the batter keeps the cake ultra-moist, so don’t skip it—or swap with full-fat Greek yogurt if needed. And for added texture, consider mixing in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using warm butter in the streusel: Cold butter is essential for the crumbly texture. Soft or melted butter will turn it into a paste.
• Overmixing the batter: This can make your cake dense and tough. Stop mixing once the dry ingredients are just incorporated.
• Skipping the apple prep: Peel and dice apples evenly. If chunks are too large, they might not soften during baking.
• Overbaking: Always check for doneness around the 45-minute mark to prevent drying out the cake.
• Pouring caramel sauce on a hot cake: Let the cake cool a bit first, or the sauce may sink into the cake and lose its glossy finish.

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Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Apple Streusel Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To maintain the best texture, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving. You can also freeze the cake (whole or sliced) tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per slice, based on 10 servings:

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 25g
• Protein: 4g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Bake, cool, and store covered until ready to serve.

Which apples work best?

Tart, firm apples like Granny Smith are ideal. Honeycrisp or Braeburn also work well for a slightly sweeter option.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend in place of regular flour.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust baking time to 50–60 minutes.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Plain Greek yogurt is a perfect substitute, preferably full-fat for best texture.

Can I add nuts to the cake?

Definitely! Fold in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty twist.

How do I store leftover caramel sauce?

Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. Warm before drizzling.

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Conclusion

Apple Streusel Cake is the ultimate comfort bake—simple, rustic, and deeply satisfying. The contrast between soft spiced apples, a tender crumb, and that crunchy, sweet topping makes it a crowd favorite every time. Whether served at breakfast, brunch, or dessert, it’s a timeless treat that brings warmth and joy to any table. Don’t forget the caramel drizzle for that final luxurious touch.

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