Every time I make this Scrumptious Crumb Cake, I’m transported back to my childhood kitchen, where the delicious aroma of baking always filled the air. I remember weekend mornings spent with my mom, laughing and chatting while we prepared our favorite treats. The smell of cinnamon and brown sugar wafting through the house was almost magical. It brought everyone to the kitchen, and I am convinced that this warm, inviting aroma has the power to turn any day around.
And let me tell you, once you take a bite of this cake, you will understand exactly what I mean. It has a buttery sour cream base that cradles layers of delightful cinnamon brown sugar crumbs. The combination is nothing short of heavenly. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy breakfast or as a dessert after dinner, it brings joy and comfort to any occasion. I guarantee that when you make it, your loved ones will gravitate toward the kitchen, drawn by the irresistible smell. You’ll feel that warm connection to your family just like I do.
How to make Scrumptious Crumb Cake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of our cake. All-purpose flour gives a nice structure and texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: This sweetens our cake and balances the flavors.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Butter adds richness and moisture—such a vital ingredient for flavor!
- 1 cup sour cream: This makes the cake incredibly moist and tender.
- 2 large eggs: Eggs provide structure and stability to the cake.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: This brings a warm and sweet flavor to the cake.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: It helps the cake rise, creating that lovely, tender texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: This also contributes to the leavening and helps the cake rise beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to enhance all those beautiful flavors.
- 1 cup brown sugar: This is for our crumb topping—it’s what gives it that delightful caramelized flavor.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Because what’s a crumb cake without that warm, spicy hug of cinnamon?
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful treat together.
Step-by-Step Guide:
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Preheat your oven: Now, the first thing you want to do is preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Trust me, this is key for achieving that perfect crumbly texture!
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Prepare your baking pan: Grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and grease it. This will ensure that our beautiful creation doesn’t stick when it’s time to serve.
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Cream together butter and sugar: In a large bowl, place the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is so important because it incorporates air into the batter, giving us a lighter cake.
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Add eggs, sour cream, and vanilla: Crack those lovely eggs into the bowl, then add the sour cream and vanilla extract. Mix it all together until it’s well combined. The sour cream is truly what makes this cake moist and delightful!
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Combine the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Give it a good whisk to mix everything evenly.
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Mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix! Just combine everything until you can’t see any more flour—this will keep our cake tender.
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Pour half of the batter into the pan: Now, pour half of your batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
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Prepare the crumb topping: In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Make sure you mix it well’ this will be our crumb topping.
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Add the crumb topping: Sprinkle half of this brown sugar mixture over the batter in the pan. This is where the magic really starts! You’ll feel the excitement bubbling up.
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Finish layering: Finally, pour the remaining batter over the crumb topping, and gently spread it out to cover. Then sprinkle the remaining brown sugar mixture on top.
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Bake: Pop the cake into your preheated oven and bake it for about 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it and use a toothpick to check if it comes out clean from the center.
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Cool before serving: Once finished, allow the cake to cool in the pan. This is living proof of patience being a virtue because the longer you wait, the better it gets!
Why I Love Making This Dish
I truly adore making this Scrumptious Crumb Cake because it’s not just about the flavor; it brings back fond memories of loving moments spent in the kitchen with the people I cherish. Each layer of crumb topping tells a story, reminding me of the laughter and smiles shared during family gatherings. The crumb cake has become somewhat of a family tradition, where everyone eagerly awaits when I whip it up.
What You’ll Need
In making this cake, you won’t need any fancy tools. Just some basic kitchen items will do! A mixing bowl, an electric mixer, measuring cups, a whisk, and the beloved 9×13-inch baking pan are all you need. If you want to get a bit more creative, you can use decorative plates for serving or maybe even a fun cake stand to show off your delicious creation.
Tips for Perfect Results
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Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. This helps to create a smoother batter and better texture.
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Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined when you’re adding your dry ingredients to your wet ones. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
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Check for doneness: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cake. Stick a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready!
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Let it cool: Allow your cake to cool before cutting. This helps set the layers and makes it easier to slice. Letting it rest enhances the flavors as well.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
This Scrumptious Crumb Cake can stand alone as a delightful treat, but if you want to make it even better, consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or some fresh berries on the side. I sometimes like to brew a pot of coffee, which pairs beautifully with the sweet and buttery flavors. It’s perfect for brunch with friends or a cozy afternoon treat.
Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which I highly doubt because it’s so good), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can also refrigerate it, but I find that it can dry out a bit. If you do refrigerate leftovers, simply reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving. Trust me, a warm, crumbly slice brings back all those lovely flavors!
FAQ Section
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose? Yes, you can! Although it will give the cake a denser texture, it adds a nice nutty flavor. I suggest using a mix of both for a lighter crumb.
Can I make this gluten-free? Certainly! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. I recommend one that is designed for baking to ensure the best texture.
How do I know when my cake is done? The toothpick test is my favorite! Just insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs clinging to it, your cake is ready.
What if I don’t have sour cream? You can substitute it with plain yogurt or buttermilk! Both will keep your cake moist and flavorful.
This Scrumptious Crumb Cake has truly become a favorite in my home, and I can’t wait for you to try it. You’re going to love how simple it is to make, and I assure you, the taste will warm your heart and soul. Each bite will evoke sweet memories, and once you serve it to your loved ones, I’m positive they’ll be asking for more. So go ahead, draw on your inner chef, and let’s get baking! I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you!