Irresistible Apple Crumb Cake With Cinnamon Drizzle for Cozy Fall Days

Why You’ll Love This Apple Crumb Cake With Cinnamon Drizzle

Nothing says comfort quite like the cozy scent of cinnamon, warm apples, and brown sugar wafting through your kitchen. This Apple Crumb Cake With Cinnamon Drizzle delivers all of that and more. It’s soft, buttery, and bursting with chunks of tender apples and a thick, irresistible crumb topping. The sweet cinnamon drizzle adds the perfect finishing touch, tying all those fall flavors together into one unforgettable bite.

Whether you’re looking for fall simple desserts, an easy make-ahead brunch bake, or something sweet for your Thanksgiving spread, this crumb cake checks all the boxes. It’s the perfect cross between an apple crisp and a soft cake—rich, yet not heavy; sweet, yet balanced. And perhaps best of all? It’s incredibly easy to make.

If you’re craving more apple-based comfort bakes, be sure to try our Apple Brownies or the festive Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles next!

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What Makes Apple Crumb Cake With Cinnamon Drizzle One of the Best Fall Desserts?

This cake is packed with fall’s most beloved ingredients—apples, cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla. It takes just a few simple pantry staples and transforms them into one of the best fall desserts you’ll ever bake. The moist, tender cake base supports a generous layer of buttery crumb topping, and the drizzle? It’s made with just three ingredients but elevates the whole dish.

Not only does it taste divine, but this apple crumb cake also holds up beautifully whether served warm or at room temperature. It’s versatile enough for both brunch and dessert, making it a winning option for any fall occasion.

Searching for a crowd-pleaser? Serve it with our Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls or alongside a cozy Butternut Sweet Potato Soup for the perfect seasonal combo.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Apple Crumb Cake With Cinnamon Drizzle

Apple Crumb Cake With Cinnamon Drizzle recipe is designed for a 9×13-inch pan and serves around 12 generous slices. Here’s everything you’ll need:

For the Cake

• 2 and 1/2 cups (313g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups peeled, diced apples (about 2 medium apples)

For the Crumb Topping

• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Cinnamon Drizzle

• 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

If you love multi-layer bakes like this one, our Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake is another must-try!

How to Make Apple Crumb Cake With Cinnamon Drizzle Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Crumb Topping

In a medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add melted butter and stir with a fork until crumbly. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in sour cream, milk, and vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined. Gently fold in the diced apples.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Spread evenly. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the batter in an even layer.

Step 6: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Make the Drizzle

While the cake is cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 8: Drizzle and Serve

Once the cake has cooled slightly, drizzle with the cinnamon glaze and slice into squares.

Craving more festive bakes? These Pumpkin Cake Pops are great for parties and easy to make ahead.

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Kitchen Tools and Equipment Required

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Two large mixing bowls
• Medium bowl (for crumble)
• Hand or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
• Whisk (for drizzle)

Looking for more kid-friendly fall treats? These Halloween Treats Vegan options are perfect for all ages.

Flavor Breakdown: Apples, Spice, and Everything Nice

What makes this cake so special is its layered flavor and texture. The tartness of the apples is offset by the sweetness of the brown sugar and drizzle, while the crumb topping adds a crisp, buttery crunch. Add warm cinnamon and nutmeg, and you’ve got a dessert that screams fall in every bite.

This cake is closely related to an apple crisp cake recipe, but with the fluffiness of a coffee cake and the structure of a sheet cake. It’s an ideal fusion of your favorite apple baked desserts.

Recipe Tips for the Perfect Apple Crumb Cake With Cinnamon Drizzle

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for contrast, or Honeycrisp for a balanced sweetness.
• Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake soft and tender.
• Let the cake cool before drizzling to keep the icing from melting.
• Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble for extra crunch.
• Use room temperature ingredients for best mixing and texture.

Looking for more delicious bakes? Our Blueberry Cheesecake has rave reviews!

Variations: Light Fall Dessert Versions and Harvest Swaps

You can easily customize this cake for different occasions:

• Light Fall Dessert Recipes: Reduce the crumb topping by half and skip the drizzle for a lighter version.
• Harvest Apple Cake: Add shredded carrots, raisins, or chopped nuts to make it feel more rustic.
• Apple Crisp Cake Recipe: Mix in some oats into the crumb topping for a texture closer to a crisp.

Want more fun, spooky twists on fall treats? Try our Ghost Wafer Cookies or Jack O’Lantern Cookies.

Serving Ideas for Fall Breakfast or Dessert Tables

This cake is incredibly versatile in how and when it can be served:

• Fall Breakfast Desserts: Serve slightly warm with a cup of tea or hot cider.
• Brunch centerpiece: Pair with a savory egg dish or fresh fruit.
• Dessert option: Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• Holiday table: Cut into bite-sized squares for dessert buffets.

And for a fun drink to pair with it? Try our Pumpkin Juice Recipe Harry Potter.

Storage Instructions and Freezing Tips

This cake stores wonderfully and can even be frozen!

• At room temperature: Keep covered in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• In the fridge: Lasts up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
• Freezer: Wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

Looking for more bake-ahead dishes? Try our Twice Baked Breakfast Potatoes for savory mornings.

What to Serve With Apple Crumb Cake

Pair your cake with:

• Coffee or chai tea for a cozy fall afternoon
• Greek yogurt or crème fraîche for brunch
• A scoop of ice cream or caramel sauce for a full dessert experience
• Fruit salad or roasted pears for balance

Want another fall-inspired side dish? Our Honey Balsamic Potato Salad brings sweet and savory together beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Apple Baked Desserts

1. Using too much flour – Always spoon and level for accuracy.
2. Underbaking the center – Make sure the toothpick comes out mostly clean.
3. Using overly ripe apples – You want firm apples that hold their shape.
4. Overloading the crumble – Keep it balanced so the cake rises evenly.
5. Skipping the cooling time – This helps set the texture and allows flavors to develop.

Need more sweet inspiration? Our Caramel-Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies are next-level.

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FAQs: Apple Crumb Cake, Drizzle, and Apple Dessert Tips

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes even better the next day.

Can I use different fruit?
Absolutely—pears or plums work well as substitutes.

What apples are best for baking?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn are great options.

Can I double the drizzle?
Of course! Just make sure the cake has cooled a bit to avoid melting it.

Can I bake this in a round pan?
Yes, but be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

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Conclusion and Call to Action

There’s something magical about this Apple Crumb Cake With Cinnamon Drizzle. It brings together the nostalgic flavors of fall, the comfort of home baking, and a simplicity that makes it accessible for any baker. Whether you’re planning a festive brunch or just want a sweet treat with your morning coffee, this cake delivers every time.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends, leave a comment, and subscribe to Recipesize.com for more cozy seasonal favorites, baking ideas, and the best fall desserts to warm your kitchen all season long.

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