Discover the perfect Apple Crumb Cake with Maple Glaze recipe, bursting with tender apples and a sweet, crunchy topping in every bite. This cozy dessert combines moist cake layers infused with warm spices, a buttery crumb topping that adds delightful texture, and a luscious maple glaze that ties everything together. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something homey and comforting, this Apple Crumb Cake with Maple Glaze is sure to become your new favorite treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect balance of flavors: The tartness of fresh apples pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the maple glaze and crumb topping.
Moist and tender texture: Every slice melts in your mouth thanks to the juicy apples and soft cake base.
Impressive yet simple: Despite its gourmet appeal, this recipe uses straightforward ingredients and steps.
Versatile for any season: Enjoy it warm in fall or as a sweet treat any time of year.
Great for sharing: Its rustic charm makes it a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings and brunches.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Apple Crumb Cake with Maple Glaze recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a vital role in crafting the perfect texture, flavor, and aroma. From fresh apples to fragrant spices, these components work together to create irresistible layers of taste.

Fresh apples: Use tart varieties like Granny Smith for bright flavor and firm texture.
All-purpose flour: Provides structure to both the cake and crumb topping.
Brown sugar: Adds natural sweetness and moisture with a hint of caramel.
Cinnamon and nutmeg: Warm spices that elevate the apple’s flavor.
Unsalted butter: Keeps the cake tender and crumb topping perfectly crisp.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients for a soft, fluffy crumb.
Maple syrup: The star of the glaze, adding rich, natural sweetness.
Baking powder and baking soda: Help the cake rise to a light, airy texture.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a sweet floral note.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances other flavors.

Variations for Apple Crumb Cake with Maple Glaze

This Apple Crumb Cake with Maple Glaze recipe is wonderfully adaptable, making it easy to tailor for different tastes or dietary preferences. Feel free to get creative with these variations while keeping the essence of the dish intact.

Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to suit dietary needs.
Nutty upgrade: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumb topping for extra crunch.
Spice it up: Include ground cloves or ginger for a deeper, festive spice profile.
Vegan adaptation: Use flax eggs and coconut oil in place of eggs and butter.
Fruit fusion: Mix in pears or cranberries with the apples for a unique twist.

Irresistible Apple Crumb Cake with Maple Glaze

How to Make Apple Crumb Cake with Maple Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and dice your apples into small, uniform pieces. Toss them with cinnamon and a bit of brown sugar to bring out their natural sweetness and spice.

Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

In a bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Cake Batter

In a separate large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices. In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract. Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients until smooth and uniform.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Pour half the cake batter into a greased pan. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the batter, then cover with the remaining batter. Sprinkle the crumb topping generously on top.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool slightly before glazing.

Step 6: Prepare and Drizzle the Maple Glaze

Mix powdered sugar with pure maple syrup and a small amount of milk or cream to reach a drizzle-worthy consistency. Pour the glaze evenly over the warm crumb cake for a glossy, sweet finish.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crumb Cake with Maple Glaze

Choose firm apples: They maintain texture during baking without turning mushy.
Keep butter cold for crumb topping: This creates perfect crunchy clusters that don’t melt into the cake.
Don’t overmix batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake tender and fluffy.
Let the cake cool slightly: It helps the glaze set and prevents it from soaking in too quickly.
Use real maple syrup: For authentic flavor and a rich, natural sweetness.

How to Serve Apple Crumb Cake with Maple Glaze

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few thin apple slices on top for an elegant presentation. A dusting of cinnamon can also complement the warm flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your Apple Crumb Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a cup of hot spiced cider to elevate your dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the cake in rustic slices atop a wooden board garnished with fresh apple branches or cinnamon sticks for a charming, autumnal feel. Mini versions baked in muffin tins make perfect individual servings for parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Apple Crumb Cake with Maple Glaze covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or reheat a larger portion in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to refresh the crumb texture and soften the glaze.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples in this recipe?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith work best for balance, sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp also create delicious results depending on your preference.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use plant-based milk to keep it dairy-free without sacrificing flavor or texture.

How thick should the crumb topping be?

A good crumb layer is about half an inch thick to ensure a crispy, crunchy topping that contrasts with the moist cake underneath.

Can I prepare the cake batter ahead of time?

It’s best to bake the cake fresh after assembling, but you can prepare the crumb topping and apple mixture a day prior to streamline baking day.

What is the best way to get a smooth maple glaze?

Sift powdered sugar before mixing and add maple syrup gradually while stirring to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Crumb Cake with Maple Glaze is more than just a dessert — it’s a heartwarming experience packed with comforting flavors and textures that bring joy with every bite. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, share it with loved ones, and let the cozy sweetness brighten your day anytime you crave something truly special.

Apple Crumb Cake with Maple Glaze

Print Recipe

A cozy and delightful Apple Crumb Cake with a buttery crumb topping and a luscious maple glaze. This moist cake combines tart apples infused with warm spices, topped with a crunchy crumb and drizzled with sweet maple glaze for a perfect balance of flavors. Ideal for any season and gatherings, this recipe is simple to make yet impressively delicious.

Author: Lucas
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
Category: Desserts
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free flour blend is used; otherwise, regular)

Ingredients

Scale

Cake and Apple Mixture

2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend for gluten-free option)
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (or coconut oil for vegan/dairy-free)
1 cup brown sugar, divided
2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan adaptation)
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 medium tart apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and diced

Crumb Topping

3/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed (or coconut oil)
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for nutty upgrade

Maple Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
3 tbsp pure maple syrup
1–2 tbsp milk or cream (or plant-based milk for dairy-free)

Instructions

Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and dice the apples into small, uniform pieces. Toss them with 1/4 cup brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon to enhance their natural sweetness and spice.
Make the Crumb Topping: In a bowl, combine 3/4 cup flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Add cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in nuts if desired. Set aside.
Mix the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In another bowl, beat the softened butter and 3/4 cup brown sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth and uniform. Avoid overmixing.
Assemble the Cake: Pour half of the cake batter into a greased baking pan. Spread the prepared apple mixture evenly over the batter. Cover apples with the remaining batter. Finally, generously sprinkle the crumb topping over the cake.
Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cake for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool slightly before applying the glaze.
Prepare and Drizzle the Maple Glaze: Mix the sifted powdered sugar with maple syrup and milk or cream until it reaches a smooth, drizzle-able consistency. Pour the glaze evenly over the warm crumb cake for a glossy finish.

Notes

Choose firm apples like Granny Smith for the best texture during baking.
Keep butter cold when preparing the crumb topping to achieve crispy, crunchy clusters.
Do not overmix the cake batter to maintain a tender and fluffy texture.
Let the cake cool slightly before glazing to prevent the glaze from soaking in too quickly.
Use real maple syrup for an authentic and rich flavor.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 of cake)
Calories: 350
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: apple crumb cake, maple glaze, autumn dessert, spiced apple cake, cozy dessert, homemade cake, gluten-free apple cake