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.