Crumb cake, also known as crumb coffee cake or streusel cake, has a history that can be traced back to European and Jewish baking traditions. It is characterized by its thick layer of buttery, crumbly topping, which sets it apart from other cakes.
Interesting fact: The origins of crumb cake can be found in Germany and Eastern European countries, where it was often enjoyed with coffee or tea as a morning or afternoon treat. It gained popularity among Jewish immigrants in the United States and became a staple in Jewish bakeries and households.
Crumb cake’s unique feature is its emphasis on the crumb topping, which is made from a mixture of butter, sugar, flour, and sometimes spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. The crumb topping provides a delightful contrast in texture to the soft, moist cake underneath.
Traditionally, crumb cake was made using simple and easily accessible ingredients, making it a comforting and economical choice. It has become a beloved classic in American baking, particularly in the New York metropolitan area, where it is often enjoyed for breakfast or as a sweet indulgence throughout the day.
Today, crumb cake comes in various flavors and variations. It can be made with different types of cake bases, such as yellow cake, sour cream cake, or even chocolate cake. The crumb topping can also be customized with the addition of nuts, fruit, or different spices, allowing for creative adaptations and personal preferences.
Crumb cake’s timeless appeal lies in its nostalgic charm and the pleasure of biting into a generous layer of buttery crumbs. Whether enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee, as part of a brunch spread, or as a comforting dessert, crumb cake continues to be a beloved treat that brings joy to many.
The Recipe
Instructions for Baking a Cake:
Optional Ingredients
Here are a few additional ingredients that would work well with the cake recipe:
- Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon or two of finely grated lemon, lime, or orange zest to the cake batter or the frosting. It will provide a bright, citrusy note that complements the delicate flavor. Simply grate the outer colorful part of the citrus fruit and mix it into the batter.
- Almond or Vanilla Extract: Include 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of extract the cake batter. These extracts can add depth and a hint of sweetness to the cake.
- Whipped Cream: You can opt for a lighter option by using whipped cream. Whip up some heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla extract until it forms stiff peaks. Spread it over the cake or use it to decorate the top.
- Fruit Puree: Fold in a fruit puree, such as strawberry or raspberry, into the batter for a burst of fruity flavor. Make sure the puree is smooth and well-incorporated to maintain the light texture of the cake.
- Chopped Nuts: Consider adding some chopped nuts, such as toasted almonds, pistachios or pecans, to the cake batter for added crunch and flavor. Fold them into the batter before baking or sprinkle them on top of the cake before serving.
Remember to adjust the quantities and measurements accordingly based on your personal preferences.
Plating Recommendations
Here are a few plating recommendations to enhance the presentation of your finished cake:
Be sensitive to what food allergies or dietary restrictions your guests might have.
Dairy Free Cake Recipe
Here’s a modified version of the original cake recipe to make it dairy-free:
Ingredients for the Cake Batter:
Ingredients for Dairy-Free Cake Frosting:
Instructions for Baking a Dairy-Free Angel Food Cake:
Instructions for Making the Cake Frosting (Dairy-Free):
Gluten Free Cake Recipe
Here’s a modified version of the original cake recipe to make it gluten-free:
Ingredients for the Cake Batter:
Ingredients for the Gluten-Free Cake Frosting:
Instructions for Baking a Gluten-Free Cake:
Instructions for Making Gluten-Free Frosting:
Sugar-Free Cake Recipe
Here’s a modified version of the original cake recipe to make it sugar-free:
Ingredients for the Cake Batter:
Ingredients for the Sugar-Free Cake Frosting:
Instructions for Baking a Sugar-Free Cake:
Instructions for Making Sugar-Free Frosting:
Low-Carb Cake Recipe
Here’s a modified version of the original cake recipe to make it low-carb:
Ingredients for the Cake Batter:
Ingredients for the Low-Carb Cake Frosting:
Instructions for Baking a Low-Carb Cake:
Instructions for Making Low-Carb Frosting:
Vegan Cake Recipe
Here’s a modified version of the original cake recipe to make it vegan friendly:
Ingredients for the Cake Batter:
Ingredients for the Vegan Cake Frosting:
Instructions for Baking a Vegan Cake:
Instructions for Making Vegan Frosting:
Keto Cake Recipe
Here’s a modified version of the original cake recipe to make it Keto:
Ingredients for the Cake Batter:
Ingredients for the Keto Cake Frosting:
Instructions for Baking a Keto Cake:
Instructions for Making Keto Frosting:
Here is some general nutrition information for the original angel food cake recipe up above:
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and any variations made to the recipe:
(per serving, based on 12 servings)
(per serving, based on 16 servings)
Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients, variations in recipes, and portion sizes. If you have any specific dietary concerns or requirements, it’s always a good idea to consult with a registered dietitian or nutritionist for personalized information.
- Mixing Bowls: Various sizes of mixing bowls are useful for combining ingredients. Opt for heatproof glass or stainless steel bowls.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A set of measuring cups (1 cup, 1/2 cup, 1/4 cup, and 1/3 cup) and measuring spoons (1 tablespoon, 1 teaspoon, 1/2 teaspoon, and 1/4 teaspoon) for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Electric Mixer: A stand mixer or handheld electric mixer can make mixing the cake batter and frosting easier and more efficient.
- Whisk: A whisk is handy for blending dry ingredients and ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
- Spatulas: Both rubber spatulas and offset spatulas are useful for scraping down the sides of bowls, folding in ingredients, and smoothing frosting.
- Cake Pans: Two 9-inch round cake pans for baking the cake layers. Opt for non-stick pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Cooling Rack: A wire cooling rack allows air to circulate around the cakes, promoting even cooling.
- Piping Bag and Tips: If you want to pipe decorations or borders, a piping bag and assorted tips will come in handy.
- Cake Stand or Serving Plate: Present your cake on a cake stand or a decorative serving plate for an appealing presentation.
- Knife or Cake Leveler: To level the cake layers or trim the tops for an even surface, a serrated knife or a cake leveler is useful.
- Offset Spatula or Palette Knife: Use an offset spatula or a palette knife for applying frosting and achieving a smooth finish.
- Cake Server or Slicing Knife: For serving the cake, have a cake server or a long, serrated knife to cut neat slices.
- Zester: a handy little kitchen utensil for removing fine shreds of zest from lemons, oranges, and limes.
Remember, this is a general list of equipment, and you may already have some of these items in your kitchen. Adapt the list based on your personal preferences and the tools you have available.