Crumb Cake

Crumb cake is a classic dessert that’s beloved for its soft, buttery texture and generous crumb topping. It usually features a simple vanilla or cinnamon-flavored cake base, topped with a sweet, streusel-like crumb topping made from butter, sugar, flour, and sometimes a dash of cinnamon. It’s often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea.

Here’s a basic recipe to make a traditional crumb cake:

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream or whole milk

For the Crumb Topping:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Make the cake batter:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   • In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until creamy and light. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the sour cream or milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
3. Make the crumb topping:
   • In a separate bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and cinnamon (if using). Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Assemble the cake:
   • Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
   • Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

You can add other ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit to customize the crumb cake to your liking!