This moist and buttery crumb cake recipe features a soft vanilla base topped with a thick, cinnamon-sugar crumb layer. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert with coffee or tea.
Crumb Cake
Crumb cake is a classic bakery-style treat known for its soft, tender cake base and rich, buttery crumb topping. The generous layer of cinnamon-sugar crumbs is what makes this cake truly special—it’s sweet, slightly crunchy, and melts perfectly into every bite.
This homemade version is simple to prepare and delivers the same comforting flavor you’d find in a bakery, making it perfect for weekend baking or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft and moist cake base
- Thick, buttery crumb topping
- Simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect with coffee or tea
- Great for breakfast or dessert
- Easy to make at home
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 35–40 minutes
- Cooling Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings
Serves 9 to 12 slices
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Crumb Topping
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Hand whisk or electric mixer
- 9×9 inch baking pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Oven
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and lightly flour a 9×9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping
In a bowl, combine:
- Flour
- Brown sugar
- Cinnamon
- Salt
Pour in the melted butter and mix with a fork until large, crumbly clumps form.
Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk.
Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the batter, covering the entire surface.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
The top should be golden brown and slightly crisp.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes.
Slice into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Crumb cake pairs beautifully with:
- Coffee or cappuccino
- Tea
- Fresh fruit
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
Recipe Tips
- Use cold crumbs for a more textured topping.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake soft.
- Add nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.
- For extra sweetness, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Line the pan for easy removal and cleaner slices.
Storage Instructions
Store crumb cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Variations
Apple Crumb Cake
Add thin apple slices under the crumb topping.
Chocolate Crumb Cake
Mix cocoa powder into the cake batter or topping.
Nutty Crumb Cake
Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumb mixture.
Final Thoughts
This crumb cake is the perfect balance of soft, buttery cake and rich cinnamon crumble. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, it’s a timeless treat that works for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Once you try it homemade, it may become your go-to coffee cake recipe.