Delicious Homemade Crumbcake Recipe with Apple Sauce

Delicious Homemade Crumbcake Recipe with Apple Sauce

Oh, my darlings, let me tell you about a crumb cake so irresistible it might just cause a family feud over the last slice. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill coffee cake—oh no, this one’s special. We’re talking about a rich, buttery crumb topping that practically melts in your mouth, sitting atop the softest, most tender cake you’ve ever tasted. And the secret to that dreamy texture? Applesauce. Yes, applesauce! It’s what makes the cake moist and delightful, like a little hug in every bite.

Over the years, I’ve baked my way through plenty of crumb cakes, but this one? It’s the showstopper. People will beg you to bring it to brunch or sneak off with a piece for “later.” Whether you’re looking for a cozy weekend treat, a special occasion centerpiece, or just something to satisfy a sweet tooth, this cake delivers every time.

Now, grab your apron, buttercup, because Aunt Loretta’s about to share all her secrets to nailing this crumb cake. Just one little favor—save me a slice, will ya? Let’s get baking!

Aunt Loretta’s Crumb Cake Secrets

First up, my sweets: Cool the butter. Melt it at least 30 minutes before you start anything else and let it naturally come to room temperature. Why? Because that’s how you get those big, beautiful crumbs that make this cake so unforgettable. Patience, darling—good crumbs are worth the wait!

Second, we’ve got the magic ingredient: applesauce. It replaces olive oil in this recipe and, paired with a little sour cream, keeps the cake moist yet sturdy enough to hold up all those luscious crumbs. The trickiest part? Making sure it bakes long enough for the crumbs to set without drying out the cake. But don’t worry, Aunt Loretta’s here to guide you through.

And the best part? This crumb cake is your canvas. Swirl in blackberries, add raspberries, or layer figs between the cake and crumbs. Feeling extra indulgent? Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream—absolute heaven.

So, roll up those sleeves and let’s create a masterpiece!

What You’ll Need

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt

For the Crumb Topping:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Put It All Together

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

  2. Prepare the Cake Batter:

    • In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
    • In a large bowl, beat the sugar and applesauce until well combined.
    • Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
    • Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth.
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined—don’t overmix!

  3. Make the Crumb Topping:

    • In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
    • Pour the melted butter over the dry ingredients and mix until large crumbs form.

  4. Assemble the Crumb Cake:

    • Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
    • Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter, covering the entire surface.

  5. Bake the Cake:

    • Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    • Let the cake cool in the pan before slicing.

  6. Serve:

    • Once cooled, slice the crumb cake into squares and serve. It pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea!

Notes from Aunt Loretta

  • For a little extra flair, dust the top with powdered sugar before serving.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay delicious for several days—if they last that long!

There you have it, my dears—the ultimate crumb cake recipe! Now, go on and bake this beauty, and don’t forget: when they ask for the recipe, just smile and say, “It’s an Aunt Loretta original.” Enjoy!

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