The Ultimate Crumb Cake Recipe: A Deliciously Easy Treat
Are you ready to bake the most irresistible crumb cake? This recipe will guide you through each step, ensuring a perfectly textured cake with a crunchy, buttery topping. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is designed for everyone. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful dessert!
What Makes This Crumb Cake Recipe Special?
This recipe isn't just another crumb cake recipe; it's a masterpiece of simplicity and flavor. We've perfected the balance of moist cake and crunchy topping, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience. Here's what makes it stand out:
- Easy-to-Follow Instructions: Even beginners can achieve amazing results.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The sweetness is just right, complemented by a hint of warmth from the spices.
- Exceptional Texture: The cake is moist and tender, while the crumb topping is perfectly crunchy.
- Versatile Recipe: Easily adaptable to your favorite flavors and additions.
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
For the Crumb Topping:
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparing the Cake Batter:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs & Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet & Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Don't overmix!
Making the Crumb Topping:
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Cut in Butter: Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Baking the Crumb Cake:
- Pour & Crumble: Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting and serving.
Tips for Crumb Cake Success:
- Don't Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
- Use Cold Butter for the Topping: Cold butter is key to a crunchy crumb topping.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the sugar in both the cake and topping.
- Get Creative with Add-ins: Try adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to the cake batter or topping.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your delicious crumb cake warm or at room temperature. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes a wonderful addition!
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