How to Make Crumb Cake: A Slice of Comfort in Every Bite

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm slice of crumb cake. Maybe it’s the soft, buttery cake, the sweet and crunchy topping, or the way it seems to melt in your mouth. Whatever the reason, crumb cake holds a special place in many hearts (and kitchens!). This recipe will guide you through making a perfect crumb cake, from mixing the batter to creating the ideal crumb topping. Get ready for a taste of pure homemade goodness!

What Makes This Crumb Cake Special?

This isn’t just any crumb cake recipe. This is the recipe for the crumb cake of your dreams. It’s the perfect balance of soft and crunchy, sweet and tangy. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make. Even if you’re a baking novice, you can whip up this crowd-pleasing dessert with confidence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk

For the Crumb Topping:

• 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup (55g) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Wire rack

Let’s Make Crumb Cake!

Making the Cake Batter

1. Preheat and prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, and beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Don’t overmix!

Creating the Crumb Topping

1. Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Cut in butter: Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Assembling and Baking the Crumb Cake

1. Spread batter: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
2. Sprinkle crumb topping: Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the cake batter.
3. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Crumb Cake in Pan

Tips and Tricks for the Best Crumb Cake

• Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature before starting. This will help create a smooth, well-combined batter.
• Don’t overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Cold butter for topping: Using cold butter for the crumb topping is key to getting those lovely, craggy crumbs.
• Test for doneness: Always test for doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs attached, it’s done. If it comes out wet, bake for a few more minutes.

FAQs About Making Crumb Cake

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk, almond milk, or soy milk for the buttermilk.

Can I make the crumb topping ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the crumb topping ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

How should I store leftover crumb cake?

Store leftover crumb cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Slice of Crumb Cake on Plate

Enjoy a Taste of Home

There’s nothing quite like a homemade crumb cake. It’s a simple pleasure that brings people together, conjuring up memories of warm kitchens and shared laughter. This recipe is easy to follow and sure to become a family favorite. So what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven and get ready for a delicious adventure!

Don’t forget to share your baking experience with us! Leave a comment below and tell us how your crumb cake turned out. Happy baking!

If you’re looking for other delightful treats to try your hand at, check out our recipes for Devil’s Food Cake, Zucchini Bread, and Snowball Cookies.