Easy Recipe: Simple Homemade New York Crumb Cake!

Close your eyes and imagine the aroma of freshly baked goodness filling your kitchen. Now open them to the sight of a golden-brown cake, crowned with a generous, irresistible crumble. That, my friends, is the magic of a classic New York Crumb Cake! But what if we told you that achieving this bakery-quality delight at home is not just possible, but also incredibly easy? Get ready to discover the joy of baking a truly **Simple Homemade New York Crumb Cake** that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of the Big Apple.

Forget complicated techniques and endless ingredient lists. This recipe is designed for real home bakers who crave authentic flavor without the fuss. We’re talking about a tender, moist cake base perfectly complemented by an epic, sweet, and spiced crumb topping – the kind that makes you want to skip dinner and go straight for dessert (or breakfast, we don’t judge!). So, tie on your apron, preheat your oven, and prepare to impress everyone (including yourself!) with your newfound crumb cake prowess. This isn’t just baking; it’s a delicious journey into comfort and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another cake recipe; it’s an invitation to experience pure baking bliss. Here are four fantastic reasons why this **Simple Homemade New York Crumb Cake** will become your new go-to:

1. Unforgettable Crumb-to-Cake Ratio: What truly defines a New York Crumb Cake? That colossal, glorious crumb topping! This recipe delivers a generous, thick layer of buttery, spiced crumble that perfectly balances the tender cake beneath. Every bite is an ideal blend of soft cake and crunchy, sweet topping.
2. Surprisingly Simple Perfection: Don’t let the impressive results fool you – this recipe is genuinely straightforward. With clear, step-by-step instructions and readily available ingredients, even novice bakers can achieve a show-stopping cake without any stress or fuss. It’s designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort.
3. Authentic Big Apple Flavor: We’ve captured the true essence of a classic New York Crumb Cake. From the rich, moist base to the wonderfully spiced, buttery crumbs, every element is balanced to perfection, delivering that nostalgic, comforting taste you crave. It’s a slice of New York history, baked right in your kitchen.
4. Versatile for Any Occasion: This delightful cake is perfect for virtually any time of day. Serve it warm with your morning coffee for a luxurious breakfast, as an afternoon pick-me-up with tea, or as a comforting dessert after dinner. Its universal appeal makes it a fantastic treat for family gatherings, brunches, or simply a cozy weekend indulgence.

Ingredients with Measurements

✨ For the Crumb Topping:

• 🥣 ⅓ cup granulated sugar (2 ⅔ oz)
• 🌰 ⅓ cup dark brown sugar (2 ⅔ oz)
• 🍂 ¾ tsp ground cinnamon
• 🧂 ⅛ tsp table salt
• 🧈 8 tbsp unsalted butter (1 stick or 4 oz), melted and still warm
• 🍚 1 ¾ cups cake flour (7 oz) (see helpful note below!)

✨ For the Cake:

• 🍚 1 ¼ cups cake flour (5 oz)
• ½ cup granulated sugar (3 ½ oz)
• ✨ ¼ tsp baking soda
• 🧂 ¼ tsp table salt
• 🧈 6 tbsp unsalted butter (¾ stick or 3 oz), cut into 6 pieces, softened but still cool
• 🥚 1 large egg
• 🥚 1 large egg yolk
• 💧 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 🥛 ⅓ cup liquid buttermilk (not dried buttermilk powder)
• ✨ Confectioners’ sugar for dusting

Detailed Step-by-Step Directions How to Make the Recipe

1. Craft Your Irresistible Crumb Topping: Begin by whisking together the granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl. Pour in the melted, warm butter and stir until well combined. Next, add the cake flour and mix with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon until a thick, cohesive dough forms. It might look a bit dry, and that’s perfectly normal! Set this delicious crumb mixture aside to cool for 10 to 15 minutes while you prepare the cake.
2. Get Ready to Bake: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and adjust an oven rack to the upper-middle position. Take a 16-inch piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil and fold it lengthwise to a 7-inch width. Spray an 8-inch square baking dish with nonstick spray, then fit the parchment inside, letting the excess overhang the edges – this makes removing your cake super easy!
3. Whip Up the Fluffy Cake Batter: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment (or use a large bowl with a hand mixer), combine the cake flour, ½ cup granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix on low speed until everything is just combined. With the mixer still running on low, add the softened butter, one piece at a time. Continue beating for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture resembles moist crumbs and there are no visible butter chunks. Now, add the large egg, egg yolk, pure vanilla extract, and liquid buttermilk. Increase the speed to medium-high and beat for about 1 minute until the batter is light and fluffy. Give the bowl a quick scrape if needed to ensure everything is incorporated.
4. Assemble and Bake Your Masterpiece: Carefully transfer the cake batter into your prepared baking dish and use a rubber spatula to spread it into an even layer. Now for the fun part: gently break apart the cooled crumb topping into large, pea-sized pieces using your thumb, pointer, and middle fingers. Pro Tip: Start by spreading the crumbs evenly around the edges of the batter, then work your way towards the center. This smart trick helps prevent the heavy crumbs from sinking into the delicate cake batter as it bakes! Whatever you do, don’t pat the crumbs down – we want them light and airy.
5. The Grand Finale: Bake your crumb cake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the crumbs are beautifully golden and a wooden skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Let the cake cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. Once cooled, use the parchment overhang to easily lift the cake out of the pan. Just before serving, lightly dust with confectioners’ sugar for that classic finish. Enjoy your wholesome, homemade New York Crumb Cake!

Helpful Cake Flour Note: If you don’t have cake flour on hand, you can easily make your own! For the total 3 cups needed in this recipe (1 ¾ cups for the topping + 1 ¼ cups for the cake), simply remove 9 tablespoons of all-purpose flour from 3 cups and replace them with 9 tablespoons of cornstarch. Sift this mixture together 5 times to create a wonderfully light and airy substitute.

Detailed Different Ways You Can Present the Recipe and How to Serve It

The beauty of a **Simple Homemade New York Crumb Cake** lies not only in its taste but also in its versatility for presentation. Here are some delightful ways to serve and present your masterpiece:

• Classic Square Slices: The most traditional way to serve, simply cut your cooled cake into generous 12 squares. The clean lines highlight the impressive crumb topping and the tender cake beneath.
• A Dusting of Elegance: Always finish your cake with a light, even dusting of confectioners’ sugar just before serving. Use a small sieve for a beautiful, snow-like effect that adds a touch of sophistication and classic New York bakery appeal.
• Brunch Star: Serve slices alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea. The crumb cake is a natural companion to your favorite morning beverage, making it an ideal centerpiece for any brunch spread.
• Fruity Freshness: For a burst of color and a tangy counterpoint, serve slices with a side of fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries work wonderfully). A small dollop of crème fraîche or plain Greek yogurt can also add a delightful creamy element.
• Dessert Indulgence: Transform your crumb cake into a decadent dessert by serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a generous swirl of homemade whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce or chocolate syrup can elevate it further for special occasions.
• Individual Portions: For a more refined presentation, consider cutting smaller, perhaps rectangular, portions. You can even serve them on individual plates with a small garnish for a cafe-style experience.

How You Can Store It and How Long Does It Last

To keep your **Simple Homemade New York Crumb Cake** fresh and delicious, proper storage is key. Here’s how to ensure it lasts as long as possible:

• At Room Temperature (Recommended): For optimal taste and texture, store the crumb cake in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain the crumb’s delicate crunch and the cake’s moistness. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Avoid refrigeration if possible, as it can dry out the cake and make the crumbs less tender.
• In the Refrigerator (If necessary): If your kitchen is particularly warm or humid, or if you prefer a slightly firmer cake, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 5-7 days. However, be aware that the cake might dry out a bit faster, and the crumbs may lose some of their crispness. Bring it to room temperature or gently warm a slice before serving for the best experience.
• Freezing for Longer Storage: This crumb cake freezes beautifully!
  • Whole Cake: Once completely cooled, wrap the entire cake (or large sections) tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil.
  • Individual Slices: Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

  Frozen crumb cake will last for up to 2-3 months. Thaw individual slices at room temperature for a few hours, or overnight in the refrigerator for larger pieces. You can gently warm thawed slices in the microwave or oven for a “freshly baked” feel.

Always ensure the cake is completely cool before storing to prevent condensation, which can make the crumbs soggy.

FAQs Sections

1. Q1: What is New York Crumb Cake?
   A: New York Crumb Cake is a classic American coffee cake distinguished by its incredibly thick, generous, and often spiced crumb topping, typically much more prominent than the cake base itself. It’s known for its tender cake and large, buttery, sweet crumbles.
2. Q2: Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?
   A: While the recipe specifies cake flour for its light and tender texture, you can make a substitute! The helpful note explains how: for the total 3 cups needed, remove 9 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and replace with 9 tablespoons of cornstarch, then sift 5 times. Using plain all-purpose flour without modification will result in a denser cake.
3. Q3: Why did my crumbs sink into the cake?
   A: Crumbs often sink if they are too heavy, the batter is too thin, or if they are pressed down. This recipe’s “Pro Tip” of spreading crumbs from the edges inwards and not patting them down is crucial. Also, ensure your butter for the crumbs isn’t too hot, as this can make the crumbs too soft.
4. Q4: Can I make this gluten-free?
   A: To make it gluten-free, you would need to use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (one that contains xanthan gum). Results may vary slightly in texture, but many gluten-free blends work well in crumb cakes.
5. Q5: Can I make this dairy-free?
   A: To make it dairy-free, substitute unsalted butter with a high-quality plant-based butter alternative (sticks, not spread). For buttermilk, you can make a dairy-free version by combining ⅓ cup dairy-free milk (like almond or soy) with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until it curdles.
6. Q6: How do I know when the cake is done?
   A: The cake is done when the crumb topping is beautifully golden brown, and a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center of the cake (avoiding the crumbs as much as possible) comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached.
7. Q7: Can I add other flavors to the crumb topping?
   A: Absolutely! While cinnamon is traditional, you can experiment with a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or even a tiny amount of allspice for a different flavor profile. A teaspoon of citrus zest (lemon or orange) can also add a bright note.
8. Q8: Why is buttermilk important in this recipe?
   A: Buttermilk adds tenderness and moisture to the cake, while its acidity reacts with the baking soda to help the cake rise and create a light, fluffy texture. It also contributes a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
9. Q9: Can I bake this in a round pan?
   A: Yes, an 8 or 9-inch round springform pan would work. Baking time might vary slightly, so keep an eye on it and use the skewer test for doneness. Adjust parchment paper lining accordingly.
10. Q10: Is this crumb cake meant to be served warm or cold?
    A: This **Simple Homemade New York Crumb Cake** is delightful both warm and at room temperature. Serving it slightly warm often enhances the flavors and creates an extra cozy experience, especially with a scoop of ice cream.