Vanilla Cinnamon Apple Crumble Cake

This Vanilla Cinnamon Apple Crumble Cake is a warm, soft and comforting dessert that feels homemade from the very first bite. It combines tender pieces of apple, a buttery vanilla cake base and a golden crumble topping with cinnamon and brown sugar.
It is the kind of sweet recipe that works beautifully for breakfast, afternoon tea, family gatherings or a simple dessert served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The apples keep the cake moist, while the crumble adds texture and a slightly caramelised flavour.
This recipe is easy to prepare and does not require any special equipment. You only need a bowl, a whisk, a baking tin and a few simple ingredients.
Vanilla Cinnamon Apple Crumble Cake
Ingredients
For the cake
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup melted butter
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 pinch of salt
For the crumble topping
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup cold butter, cut into small cubes
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 180°C / 350°F. Grease a medium baking tin or line it with parchment paper.
Start by preparing the crumble topping. In a small bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar and cinnamon. Add the cold butter and rub it into the dry ingredients using your fingertips until the mixture looks like rough breadcrumbs. Place the crumble in the fridge while you prepare the cake batter.
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with the sugar until the mixture becomes lighter and slightly creamy. Add the melted butter, milk and vanilla extract. Stir well until everything is combined.
In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, cinnamon and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir gently. Do not overmix; the batter should be smooth but still light.
Fold in the diced apples. They will bring moisture and a natural sweetness to the cake.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking tin and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the cake, covering the surface generously.
Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean. Let the cake cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting.
Serve warm or at room temperature. For a richer dessert, add a spoonful of whipped cream, vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Conclusion
This Vanilla Cinnamon Apple Crumble Cake is simple, sweet and full of cosy flavour. The soft vanilla cake, juicy apple pieces and crunchy cinnamon crumble make it a dessert that feels familiar but still special.
It is perfect for using apples you already have at home and can be prepared without complicated steps. The cake keeps well for two to three days in an airtight container, although it is at its best slightly warm.
A good sweet recipe does not need to be difficult. Sometimes, apples, cinnamon, butter and vanilla are enough to create something truly comforting.