Are you craving a comforting, intensely flavorful cake that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This New York-style crumb cake recipe is your answer. Forget those store-bought versions – this homemade delight boasts a moist, tender cake base generously topped with a crunchy, buttery crumb topping that will have everyone asking for seconds. It's the perfect blend of sweet and nutty, ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon treat. This recipe is perfect for both beginner bakers and experienced cooks looking for a classic, delicious dish. Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ 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
- ¾ cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This ensures your cake releases easily and prevents sticking.
Make the cake batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. 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!
Prepare the crumb topping: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This process is key to achieving that signature crumbly texture.
Assemble and bake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and serve: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before cutting and serving. This allows the cake to set properly and prevents it from crumbling.
Tips for the Best Crumb Cake:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
- Use cold butter for the topping: Cold butter creates a flakier, crispier crumb topping.
- Adjust sweetness to your liking: If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the sugar in both the cake and crumb topping.
- Add nuts: For extra flavor and texture, add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping.
- Make it ahead: This crumb cake can be made a day or two in advance and stored at room temperature, covered.
Variations:
- Lemon Crumb Cake: Add the zest of one lemon to the cake batter and a tablespoon of lemon juice to the buttermilk.
- Apple Crumb Cake: Add 1 cup of chopped apples to the cake batter.
- Chocolate Crumb Cake: Add ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the cake batter and use dark brown sugar in the crumb topping.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and serving size. A general estimate for a 1/12th slice is:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 18-22g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 45-50g
- Protein: Approximately 4-5g
This recipe provides a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a delicious, homemade cake. The wonderful aroma filling your kitchen while it bakes will be a treat in itself! Whether you’re searching for easy recipes, healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, or simply the best recipes, this New York crumb cake is sure to impress. Happy baking!