Apple Cider Crumb Cake

This Apple Cider Crumb Cake is the ultimate cozy fall bake — soft, moist, and bursting with apple-cinnamon flavor. Infused with real apple cider and topped with a thick, buttery crumble, this cake captures everything we love about the season. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon treat with a hot cup of coffee or cider.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Crumb Cake 🍏
🍎 Cozy Fall Flavor: Warm spices and apple cider in every bite.
🍰 Soft & Moist: The tender cake contrasts beautifully with the crisp crumb topping.
☕ Perfect Anytime Treat: Great for brunch, dessert, or a cozy snack.
🕒 Make-Ahead Friendly: Stays moist and flavorful for days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup reduced apple cider (see below)
• ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Crumb Topping:

• ¾ cup brown sugar
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Optional Glaze:

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tbsp apple cider

How to Make Apple Cider Crumb Cake

Step 1 – Reduce the Cider:
Simmer 1 cup of apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat until reduced to ½ cup. Let cool.

Step 2 – Make the Crumb Topping:
Mix brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Pour in melted butter and stir until crumbly. Set aside.

Step 3 – Make the Cake Batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla, sour cream, and reduced apple cider. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until just combined.

Step 4 – Assemble & Bake:
Pour the batter into a greased 8×8-inch baking pan. Sprinkle crumb topping evenly over the batter. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 5 – Cool & Glaze (Optional):
Let cool for 15 minutes, then drizzle with apple cider glaze if desired.

Tips for the Best Crumb Cake

🍏 Use fresh, high-quality apple cider — it makes a big difference.
🧈 Don’t overmix the batter — it should be tender, not dense.
🥄 Chill the crumb topping briefly before baking for bigger, crunchier crumbs.
🍂 For extra texture, mix in a handful of finely chopped apples into the batter.

Serving Suggestions

This Apple Cider Crumb Cake is perfect served warm or at room temperature. Try it with:

• A dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream 🍦
• A mug of hot apple cider or coffee ☕
• A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top for extra sweetness

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This cake stays moist for 3–4 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.

Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.

Can I use apple juice instead of cider?
You can, but apple cider adds a deeper, spiced flavor that’s worth seeking out.

Conclusion

This Apple Cider Crumb Cake is everything cozy fall baking should be — soft, buttery, and warmly spiced with a crunchy, irresistible crumb topping. It’s easy enough for a weekday treat and special enough for holiday brunches. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a seasonal favorite. 🍎🍰