Apple Streusel Cake

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Golden, buttery cake filled with warm cinnamon apples and crowned with a crunchy brown sugar streusel—this Apple Streusel Cake is the ultimate fall comfort bake. Whether served with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this cake delivers cozy flavors in every bite.

The soft and tender crumb of the cake is contrasted beautifully by the apple slices nestled within and the crispy topping. It’s simple enough for a weekday dessert but impressive enough to bring to a gathering. And when you drizzle it with a little caramel sauce? Game over.

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What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

For a well-balanced flavor and texture, go for apples that hold their shape during baking. Granny Smith brings a tart contrast that complements the sweetness of the streusel, while Honeycrisp or Fuji offer a naturally sweet and juicy bite. Mixing both tart and sweet varieties makes the cake more dynamic and flavorful.

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Ingredients for the Apple Streusel Cake

Apples – The star of the show. Choose crisp apples that don’t turn mushy in the oven.

All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure for both the cake and the crumb topping.

Brown Sugar – Adds deep caramel notes and makes the streusel irresistible.

Granulated Sugar – Used to sweeten the batter without overpowering the apples.

Butter – Brings richness and moisture; essential in both the cake and streusel.

Eggs – Help bind the cake together and add fluffiness.

Baking Powder – Gives the cake its lift.

Cinnamon – Warms up the flavor profile and pairs perfectly with apples.

Salt – Enhances every other flavor.

Vanilla Extract – A little goes a long way to deepen the cake’s flavor.

Milk – Loosens the batter and makes it pourable while adding moisture.

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How To Make the Apple Streusel Cake

Step 1: Prep the Apples

Peel, core, and slice your apples thinly. Toss them in a bowl with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a tablespoon of sugar. This quick toss enhances their flavor and draws out just enough juice to help them soften perfectly in the oven.

Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping

In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, ground cinnamon, and cold cubed butter. Use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to crumble the mixture together until it resembles coarse sand. Place it in the fridge to chill while you prepare the batter.

Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter

Cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, alternating with milk, until a smooth batter forms.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Pour half of the batter into a greased and floured springform pan. Layer the sliced apples evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining batter over the apples and spread gently. Sprinkle the chilled streusel topping generously over the top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before removing the sides of the springform. Cool completely or serve warm for ultimate coziness.

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How to Serve and Store Apple Streusel Cake

This Apple Streusel Cake is best served slightly warm, when the apple filling is tender and the crumb topping is still crisp. Pair it with freshly whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce for a bakery-style dessert at home.

If you’re preparing it ahead, store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 5 days—just bring it to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving to revive the texture. You can also freeze slices individually for up to 2 months.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pan works best for this cake?

A springform pan is ideal because it makes removal easy and keeps the streusel intact. But you can also use a deep 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper.

Can I use canned or pre-cooked apples?

Fresh apples are best for flavor and texture, but if you’re short on time, canned apple pie filling can work. Just skip the sugar-and-cinnamon toss step.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Check the center with a toothpick—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, you’re good to go. The top should be golden brown and slightly firm.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Make sure your baking powder is also certified gluten-free.

What’s the best way to reheat slices?

Microwave individual slices for about 15–20 seconds, or reheat in the oven at 300°F for 8–10 minutes to restore crispiness.

Is it okay to add nuts to the streusel?

Absolutely. Chopped pecans or walnuts add extra crunch and warmth—just mix them into the streusel before sprinkling.

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Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If this Apple Streusel Cake had you swooning, you’ll fall in love with these other cozy, crowd-pleasing bakes from the blog:

• Cinna Bun Cake for gooey cinnamon swirls in every bite.
• Triple Chocolate Banana Bread if you’re a chocolate-lover craving a rich twist.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding for a fruity, creamy dessert mashup.
• Caramel Reese’s Oreo Cheesecake when you’re in the mood for a decadent no-bake treat.
• Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge for a playful, tropical spin on a retro classic.

Explore these sweet twists and let your dessert game shine with variety.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you use Honeycrisp or Granny Smith? Did you sneak in any nuts or drizzle caramel?

I love seeing how you bring these bakes to life. And if you’re looking for more daily inspiration, follow along on my Pinterest Life with Nina where I share even more dessert ideas and seasonal favorites.

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