Apple Crumb Cake – Warm, Comforting, and Lightly Sweet

This Apple Crumb Cake brings together the best of fall baking in a light, moist cake layered with tender apples and topped with a crunchy cinnamon-oat crumb. Perfect for cozy mornings, afternoon tea, or dessert, this recipe feels indulgent while being made with simple, feel-good ingredients. It’s the kind of treat that fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of cinnamon and apples — and your plate with pure joy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tender Apple Layers – Sliced apples melt into the cake for natural sweetness and moisture.
Moist Yet Light – A yogurt-based batter keeps the cake fluffy without being dense.
Crumb Topping – A golden streusel layer adds texture and warm spice.
Versatile – Perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert with a cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup whole wheat flour
• ½ cup granulated sweetener or sugar substitute
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• ¾ cup unsweetened applesauce
• ½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 medium apples, peeled and thinly sliced

For the Crumb Topping:

• ¼ cup rolled oats
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 tbsp brown sugar or sweetener
• 1 tbsp light butter or margarine
• ½ tsp cinnamon

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray an 8×8-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.

2. Make the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together flours, sweetener, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
In another bowl, mix applesauce, yogurt, egg, and vanilla.
Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Do not overmix.

3. Assemble the Cake
Pour half the batter into the baking dish. Layer half the apple slices over the batter. Pour in the remaining batter and layer the rest of the apples on top.

4. Add the Crumb Topping
In a small bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the top.

5. Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the topping is golden. Let cool slightly before slicing.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 160
Protein: 4g
Fat: 3g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugar: 12g
Fiber: 3g

Tips for Success

• Choose Tart Apples – Granny Smith or Honeycrisp give the best texture and balance of sweetness.
• Don’t Overmix – To keep the cake light and tender, mix just until combined.
• Add Nuts – A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts in the topping adds extra crunch and flavor.

Why This Recipe Works

The applesauce and yogurt keep the cake moist without extra oil or butter, while the crumb topping delivers that classic bakery-style texture and taste. It’s the perfect compromise between indulgent and everyday-friendly.

This Apple Crumb Cake is comfort food done right — light, flavorful, and packed with the cozy flavors of apple and cinnamon. Whether you’re enjoying a slice in the morning or saving it for dessert, it’s a wholesome treat that satisfies every time.