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Apple crisp crumble coffee cake made with Granny Smith apples, topped with a golden oat streusel crumble.

Apple Crisp Crumble Cake

Marcela Arias
This warm Apple Crisp Crumble Cake combines Granny Smith apples with a spiced cinnamon filling, topped with a buttery, oat crumble for the ultimate comforting dessert. It’s a sweet, crispy, and soft bite of fall, perfect for any occasion from brunch to an afternoon treat.😉
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American, German
Servings 8 pieces
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • 8x8-inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups, spoons or digital scale
  • Peeler (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • For the Apple Layer:
  • 4 Granny Smith apples sliced thin (400g / 4 cups)
  • 3 tablespoons sugar 45g
  • 2 tablespoons flour 30g
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon 5g
  • 1/4 teaspoon allspice optional (1g)
  • For the Crisp Crumble Topping:
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon 5g
  • 1/2 cup sugar or brown sugar 100g
  • 2 cups rolled oats 180g – we use Quaker, can also use Instant Oats
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 7.5ml
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar 90g
  • 5 tablespoons butter chilled and cubed (70g) - for a vegan version, use almond, coconut, or cashew butter

Instructions
 

  • Start by slicing up those Granny Smith apples (or whichever apple variety you’re using). Toss them in sugar, flour, and cinnamon (and allspice if you’re feeling a little extra). Set them aside to get those flavors all cozy.
  • In a bowl, mix together the rolled oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add a little vanilla for that warm, sweet touch. Cut in your butter (or vegan substitute) until the mixture resembles a coarse crumble. You can use your hands or a pastry cutter no mixer needed!
  • Press half of that delicious crumble into the bottom of your 8x8 baking pan, spreading it out evenly and pressing it down to form a solid base. This is the magic foundation!
  • Spread your cinnamon sugar coated apples evenly over the crumble base. Make sure to get them all nestled in there nicely!
  • Sprinkle the rest of the crumble topping over the apples. Don’t be shy this is the best part!
  • Pop it in the oven at 330°F for about 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are nice and soft. Your kitchen will smell like a fall dream trust me, it's worth the wait!
  • Let your cake cool for about 20 minutes before slicing into it. It’s hard, but it’s totally worth it to let it set just a bit!

Notes

  • Substitutions: For a vegan version, substitute coconut or almond butter for dairy butter. You can also swap the brown sugar for coconut sugar for a refined-sugar-free option.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Slice the cooled cake and wrap each piece in plastic wrap before storing in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
  • Apple Choice: Granny Smith apples work best for this cake, providing a nice balance of tartness that complements the sweet crumble topping.
  • Tip for the Best Crumble: Chilled butter creates a crispier, more textured crumble. Be sure to chill the butter before mixing the crumble.
Keyword apple crisp crumble cake, apple crumble cake, apple streusel cake, apples, crumble, old fashioned german crumb cake recipe, streusel