Description
Apple Crumble Layer Cake
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
For the Apple Filling:
3 cups diced green apples
2 tbsp brown sugar
1/2 tsp cinnamon
For the Crumble:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup cold butter, diced
For the Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. For the cake, whisk together dry ingredients in one bowl. In another, cream butter and sugar until fluffy, add eggs, and mix in vanilla. Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk. Pour into pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
3. For the filling, toss diced apples with brown sugar and cinnamon. Sauté in a pan until tender.
4. For the crumble, mix flour, brown sugar, and butter until crumbly. Bake on a tray for 10 minutes.
5. To assemble, layer cake with apple filling and crumble. Drizzle glaze over the top and garnish with extra crumble.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed sequence for a perfect cake. First, prepare your cake pans by greasing and optionally lining with parchment paper. When creaming the butter and sugar, ensure it is light and fluffy for 5-7 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each. When alternating dry ingredients and buttermilk, begin and end with the dry mixture, mixing just until combined. For the apple filling, cook over medium heat until apples are soft but still hold their shape, about 8-10 minutes. Let all components (cakes, filling, crumble) cool completely before assembly to prevent a soggy cake.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is best served at room temperature. For an extra treat, warm individual slices slightly and serve with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A drizzle of salted caramel sauce over the top complements the apple and cinnamon flavors beautifully. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea for a delightful dessert experience.
How-to Summary
This Apple Crumble Layer Cake combines three elements: a spiced vanilla buttermilk cake, a tender cinnamon-apple filling, and a buttery baked crumble. The process involves baking the cake layers, preparing the stovetop apple filling, and making a separate crumble topping. The final assembly stacks cake, apples, and crumble, finished with a simple vanilla glaze.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of apple? Yes, Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness and structure, but Honeycrisp or Braeburn are excellent sweeter alternatives.
Can I make components ahead of time? Absolutely. Bake the cake layers and crumble up to two days in advance, storing airtight at room temperature. Prepare the apple filling 1 day ahead and refrigerate.
What if I don’t have buttermilk? Make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
How do I store the finished cake? Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days, but bring to room temperature before serving.
Why is my crumble not clumping? Ensure your butter is very cold and do not over-mix. The mixture should look like coarse, uneven crumbs. If it’s too sandy, add a few more small, cold butter pieces.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using warm butter for the crumble, which leads to a greasy, melted texture instead of crisp clusters.
- Over-mixing the cake batter after adding the flour, which can develop gluten and create a dense, tough cake.
- Assembling the cake while the apple filling or crumble is still warm, causing moisture to soften the cake layers.
- Not letting the butter and sugar cream long enough, resulting in a less airy and dense cake crumb.
- Overcooking the apple filling until it becomes mushy; it should be tender but retain some texture.
Conclusion
This Apple Crumble Layer Cake is a show-stopping dessert that masterfully combines the comforting flavors of a classic apple crumble with the celebratory feel of a layered cake. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a stunning bake that is perfect for any special occasion or autumn gathering. The interplay of soft spiced cake, juicy apples, crunchy crumble, and sweet glaze makes every bite a delightful experience. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!