The James Martin Apple Crumble Cake is a delightful blend of soft, spiced apple cake and a buttery crumble topping. Perfect for fall or any time you crave a comforting dessert, this cake is rich, moist, and packed with tender apple pieces and a hint of cinnamon. Serve it warm with a dollop of cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy, satisfying treat.
What is James Martin’s Apple Crumble Cake?
James Martin’s Apple Crumble Cake combines the best elements of apple crumble and cake in one. The cake base is made with fresh apples and warm spices, while the top is a classic crumble, adding a buttery, crunchy layer that complements the soft, moist cake. This dessert is ideal for gatherings, tea time, or a cozy family treat.
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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Two desserts in one: A combination of cake and crumble, offering the best of both worlds.
- Perfectly spiced: Warm flavors from cinnamon and apples.
- Comfort food: Ideal for fall and winter gatherings.
- Great for sharing: Perfect for family events, potlucks, or as a gift.
- Customizable: Add nuts, different spices, or even raisins for extra flavor.
Ingredients Needed to Make James Martin Apple Crumble Cake
For the Cake:
- Butter (175g, softened): Adds richness and moisture.
- Caster sugar (175g): Sweetens the cake.
- Self-raising flour (225g): Provides structure and a light texture.
- Baking powder (1 tsp): Helps the cake rise.
- Eggs (3 large): Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
- Milk (2 tbsp): Loosens the batter and adds creaminess.
- Apples (2 medium, peeled, cored, and chopped): Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): Adds warmth and complements the apple flavor.
For the Crumble Topping:
- Plain flour (100g): Forms the base of the crumble.
- Butter (75g, cold and cubed): Creates a crumbly texture.
- Demerara sugar (75g): Adds sweetness and a slight crunch.
Optional Add-Ins
- Chopped walnuts or pecans: Adds a nutty crunch to the topping.
- Raisins or sultanas: Add a touch of sweetness and texture to the cake.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls: For the cake and crumble mixture.
- Electric mixer: For creaming the butter and sugar.
- 9-inch round cake tin: Greased and lined for easy removal.
- Spatula: For folding ingredients.
Instructions to Make James Martin Apple Crumble Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Tin
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (fan).
- Grease and line a 9-inch round cake tin with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Crumble Topping
- In a mixing bowl, add the plain flour and cubed cold butter.
- Rub the butter into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
- Stir in the demerara sugar (and nuts if using), then set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cake Batter
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Sift in the self-raising flour, baking powder, and cinnamon. Fold in gently until just combined.
- Add the milk and chopped apples, folding until evenly incorporated.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared cake tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the batter.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean and the crumble topping is golden.
- If the crumble starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil halfway through baking.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with cream, custard, or vanilla ice cream.
What Goes Well with James Martin Apple Crumble Cake?
- Vanilla ice cream: Adds a cold, creamy contrast to the warm cake.
- Custard: Pairs perfectly with the spiced apple and buttery crumble.
- Whipped cream: Light and airy, complements the richness of the cake.
- Caramel sauce: Drizzle over the cake for added sweetness.
- Chai tea or coffee: The spices in chai or a cup of coffee enhance the flavors in the cake.
Expert Tips for Making the Best James Martin Apple Crumble Cake
- Use tart apples: Tart varieties like Granny Smith hold their shape and add a slight tang.
- Don’t overmix the batter: This ensures a light, fluffy texture.
- Chill the crumble topping: Cold butter in the topping helps create a crisp crumble.
- Check for doneness: Insert a skewer; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Easy Variations of James Martin Apple Crumble Cake
- Add raisins or sultanas: For a chewy texture and natural sweetness.
- Use mixed spices: Substitute the cinnamon with apple pie spice or mixed spice for a different flavor profile.
- Nutty crumble: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping for a nutty crunch.
- Add a hint of ginger: A small amount of ground ginger adds warmth to the cake.
Best Practices to Store James Martin Apple Crumble Cake
- Room temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate: For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days. Allow it to come to room temperature or warm slightly before serving.
Best Practices to Reheat James Martin Apple Crumble Cake
- Oven: Reheat in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: For a quick warm-up, microwave individual slices for 20-30 seconds.
How Can I Make James Martin Apple Crumble Cake Healthier?
- Use whole-wheat flour: Substitute part of the self-raising flour with whole-wheat flour.
- Reduce sugar: Use less caster sugar in the cake and crumble topping.
- Add nuts or seeds: Incorporate flaxseeds or chia seeds into the crumble topping for extra fiber.
- Use Greek yogurt: Substitute some butter with Greek yogurt for a lower-fat option.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 3g
FAQs
Can I use other fruits instead of apples in James Martin’s Apple Crumble Cake?
Yes, you can substitute apples with pears, peaches, or berries. These fruits pair well with the crumble topping, but keep in mind that they may affect the cake’s moisture and texture slightly.
How do I prevent the crumble topping from sinking into the cake?
To prevent the crumble topping from sinking, make sure the cake batter is thick and don’t press the crumble into the batter. The topping should rest gently on the surface, allowing it to bake evenly and stay crisp.
Can I make James Martin Apple Crumble Cake in advance?
Yes, this cake can be made in advance. Bake and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What type of apples work best in apple crumble cake?
Tart apples like Granny Smith or Bramley work well as they hold their shape and balance the sweetness of the cake.
Final Words
The James Martin Apple Crumble Cake is a comforting and delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist apple-studded cake and crunchy crumble topping, this recipe combines all the best flavors of fall into a satisfying treat.
Enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cream, and savor every bite of this cozy, delightful cake!
More By British Baking Recipe
Print
James Martin Apple Crumble Cake
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 55
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Description
James Martin’s Apple Crumble Cake combines the best elements of apple crumble and cake in one. The cake base is made with fresh apples and warm spices, while the top is a classic crumble, adding a buttery, crunchy layer that complements the soft, moist cake. This dessert is ideal for gatherings, tea time, or a cozy family treat.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- Butter (175g, softened): Adds richness and moisture.
- Caster sugar (175g): Sweetens the cake.
- Self-raising flour (225g): Provides structure and a light texture.
- Baking powder (1 tsp): Helps the cake rise.
- Eggs (3 large): Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
- Milk (2 tbsp): Loosens the batter and adds creaminess.
- Apples (2 medium, peeled, cored, and chopped): Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): Adds warmth and complements the apple flavor.
For the Crumble Topping:
- Plain flour (100g): Forms the base of the crumble.
- Butter (75g, cold and cubed): Creates a crumbly texture.
- Demerara sugar (75g): Adds sweetness and a slight crunch.
Optional Add-Ins
- Chopped walnuts or pecans: Adds a nutty crunch to the topping.
- Raisins or sultanas: Add a touch of sweetness and texture to the cake.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Tin
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (fan).
- Grease and line a 9-inch round cake tin with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Crumble Topping
- In a mixing bowl, add the plain flour and cubed cold butter.
- Rub the butter into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
- Stir in the demerara sugar (and nuts if using), then set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cake Batter
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Sift in the self-raising flour, baking powder, and cinnamon. Fold in gently until just combined.
- Add the milk and chopped apples, folding until evenly incorporated.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared cake tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the batter.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean and the crumble topping is golden.
- If the crumble starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil halfway through baking.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with cream, custard, or vanilla ice cream.
