Imagine waking up on a cozy weekend morning to the delightful aroma of freshly baked cake wafting through your home. There’s something truly special about the simplicity and comfort of a homemade crumb cake, perfect for pairing with a warm cup of coffee or tea. Ready to create your own inviting breakfast treat that will have your family gathering around the table? Let’s get started with this mouthwatering recipe for Basic Crumb Cake.
**Basic Crumb Cake**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Crumb Topping:** In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup of the flour with 1/2 cup of the granulated sugar. Using a fork or pastry cutter, cut in 1/4 cup of the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
2. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
3. **Make the Cake Batter:** In a large mixing bowl, cream the remaining 1/4 cup of butter with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating well to combine.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 1/2 cups of flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. **Assemble the Batter:** Alternate adding the flour mixture and milk to the butter and sugar mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
6. **Layer the Batter:** Spread the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
7. **Add the Crumb Topping:** Sprinkle the prepared crumb topping evenly over the cake batter.
8. **Bake to Perfection:** Bake the crumb cake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. **Serve and Enjoy:** Allow the crumb cake to cool slightly before slicing and serving. This cake is best enjoyed warm, perhaps with a dusting of powdered sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness.
This Basic Crumb Cake recipe is a versatile and classic addition to your baking repertoire. Whether you whip it up for a leisurely weekend breakfast or as a comforting dessert for your family and friends, its simple yet irresistible flavor is sure to delight. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the crumb topping or mixing in some fresh berries to the cake batter. The possibilities are endless, so get creative in the kitchen and enjoy the cozy goodness of homemade crumb cake.
