Warm spices, buttery crumbs, and the gentle sweetness of applesauce, this applesauce crumb cake recipe is the kind of cozy bake that turns an ordinary day into something special. I first tried it on a quiet Sunday when I had some leftover applesauce and a craving for something homey but unfussy. The result? A soft, moist cake layered with cinnamon-streusel that instantly earned a permanent spot in my recipe box.
Whether you’re planning a weekend brunch, need a simple dessert for guests, or just want something to nibble on with your coffee, this cake delivers. It’s tender, gently spiced, not too sweet, and topped with a generous layer of crumb that makes every bite a little indulgence.
Table of contents
Here’s Why This Cake Always Hits the Spot
This cake is easy, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Here’s why it works so beautifully:
- Applesauce magic: It replaces some of the fat in the batter, making the cake incredibly moist without being heavy. It also adds a gentle apple flavor and natural sweetness.
- Crumb topping for the win: The streusel is rich, crunchy, and spiced just right. It adds texture and that irresistible bakery-style flair.
- One-bowl batter: Minimal dishes, maximum flavor.
- Customizable: You can easily make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or add extras like nuts or raisins.
- Perfect for any time of day: It’s sweet enough for dessert but wholesome enough for breakfast (yes, I said it!).
Want to tweak it to fit your needs? Try these swaps:
- Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-free: Use vegan butter or coconut oil in both the cake and crumb topping.
- Lower sugar: Cut back the sugar slightly and add a touch more cinnamon or vanilla for flavor.
Recipe Card
Applesauce Crumb Cake Recipe
Course: Dessert9
servings15
minutes40
minutes320
kcalMoist and warmly spiced, this applesauce crumb cake is topped with a buttery cinnamon streusel and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Ingredients
- For the Crumb Topping
1 cup all-purpose flour
2/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- For the Cake
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
1 1/2 cups unsweetened applesauce
1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions
- Prep the Oven and Pan (5 minutes): Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Make the Crumb Topping (5 minutes): In a small bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until crumbly. Set aside.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients (5 minutes): In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients (5 minutes): In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, applesauce, and vanilla until smooth.
- Make the Batter (2 minutes): Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined, don’t overmix!
- Assemble the Cake (2 minutes): Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the batter.
- Bake (35–40 minutes): Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve (15–20 minutes): Let the cake cool in the pan for about 20 minutes before slicing. It tastes great warm or at room temperature!
Notes
- Don’t overmix or you’ll lose those beautiful crumbles!
- Use parchment for easy lift-out.
- Try adding walnuts or cranberries.
My Favorite Tips for Crumb Cake Perfection
- Don’t skip the salt in the crumb topping, it really enhances the flavor.
- Use room temperature ingredients to help everything blend smoothly.
- Let it rest after baking: Cooling allows the flavors to settle and makes cutting much easier.
- Want it extra indulgent? Drizzle a little vanilla glaze or dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
Tasty Variations on Applesauce Cake You’ll Love Trying
Apple crisp is the kind of dessert that welcomes a bit of experimentation. Whether you want to highlight seasonal flavors or accommodate a dietary need, here are a few tasty twists that are just as comforting and satisfying as the original, and yes, I’ve linked up some of my favorites from the site so you can try them next!
- Applesauce Cake: If you love the cozy warmth of apple desserts but want something a little more cake-like, this moist and spiced treat is perfect. It’s a great use for homemade or store-bought applesauce and pairs beautifully with tea or coffee.
- Applesauce Coffee Cake: Imagine a soft, cinnamon-kissed cake with a crumbly streusel topping, this is like the apple crisp’s brunchy cousin. Perfect for cozy mornings or as an afternoon pick-me-up with coffee.
- Applesauce Walnut Crumb Cake: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts to the crumb topping or the batter for added crunch and nutty depth.
How to Serve This Cake (and Make It Extra Cozy)
I love serving this with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee, chai, or warm apple cider. For brunch, it shines next to scrambled eggs or a fruit salad. Dress it up with a caramel drizzle if you’re feeling fancy!
FAQs About Applesauce Crumb Cake Recipe
Yes, but reduce the sugar slightly to avoid it being overly sweet.
Crumb cake has a thicker, more dominant streusel topping compared to coffee cake.
Let the cake cool uncovered for a bit before storing, and avoid refrigerating right away.
Yes, but adjust the bake time accordingly (loaf: ~50 mins, bundt: 55–60 mins).
Totally. Wrap individual pieces in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Final Thoughts: Go On, Give It a Try!
If you’re looking for a cake that’s simple, soul-soothing, and delightfully spiced, this applesauce crumb cake is it. It’s a classic with a twist, and I promise it’ll be one of those recipes you come back to again and again. If you try it, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Drop a comment below or tag me in your delicious photos.
Until next time, happy baking!
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