Introduction to Outrageously Buttery Crumb Cake
Are you ready to elevate your baking game with an outrageously buttery crumb cake that will delight your friends and family? This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience that brings people together.
Why is crumb cake a crowd-pleaser?
Crumb cakes have a unique charm — they are comforting, indulgent, and versatile. Whether you serve it at brunch, as an afternoon snack, or as a sweet ending to a dinner party, it’s guaranteed to please. The cake's soft, moist interior combined with a generous, crunchy topping creates an irresistible texture contrast that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, who can resist the heavenly aroma that wafts through your kitchen while it bakes?
This recipe, inspired by my aunt's classic 1970s creation, takes the traditional crumb cake to a new level of decadence with a full pound of butter — yes, you heard that right! It’s as much a nostalgic slice of childhood as it is a treat that suits modern tastes. If you’re interested in more baking tips, check out King Arthur Baking for expert advice. Get ready to impress — your taste buds are in for a luxurious experience!
Essential Ingredients for a Moist Crumb Cake
Creating the outrageously buttery crumb cake you dream about starts with a solid list of essential ingredients. The key to that rich moisture lies in the combination of flavorful components:
- Yellow Cake Mix: Using a quality mix sets the foundation for a tender crumb.
- Water: Hydrates the cake, ensuring it bakes up soft and moist.
- Eggs: Essential for structure; they create a beautiful lift and richness.
- Softened Butter: A must-have for creaminess and added flavor in both the cake and the crumb layer.
- Brown Sugar: This gives your cake depth and that classic, warm sweetness.
- Ground Cinnamon: Adds a hint of spice to elevate the flavor profile.
- Vanilla Extract: Because you can’t go wrong with a good splash of vanilla.
- All-Purpose Flour: A straightforward choice that makes mixing easy and efficient.
- Cold Butter (cubed): Crucial for achieving that magnificent crumb topping.
Feel free to explore alternative mixes or sweeteners to suit your taste preferences—this cake adapts beautifully! For tips on cake baking, check out King Arthur Baking for expert insights. With these ingredients at hand, you’re well on your way to enjoying a delightful slice of this decadent dessert!
Step-by-step Preparation of Outrageously Buttery Crumb Cake
Creating an outrageously buttery crumb cake is an experience that combines the joy of baking with the anticipation of delightful flavors. This recipe, a cherished one from the 1970s, will walk you through each step so you can impress friends and family with a slice of nostalgia.
Gather your ingredients
Before diving into the mixing and baking, it’s essential to have everything on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 (15.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
- ⅔ cup water
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 1 ⅓ cups packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups cold butter, cubed
- 1 tablespoon confectioners' sugar for dusting (optional)
Having your ingredients ready not only keeps the process smooth but also makes it more enjoyable. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every moment of this baking adventure!
Preheat and prepare your baking pan
Next, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). While that’s warming up, grab a 12x18-inch jellyroll pan and grease it well. The last thing you want is your beautiful crumb cake to stick! If you prefer, a 13x9-inch pan works too; just adjust the baking time slightly.
Mix the cake batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, water, eggs, and ½ cup of softened butter. Using an electric mixer, blend this mixture for about 2 minutes on medium speed. You’re aiming for a smooth and creamy batter that will be the foundation of your outrageously buttery crumb cake. Once mixed, pour it into your prepared pan.
Bake the initial cake layer
It’s time to put that batter in the oven! Bake for about 15 to 17 minutes until the edges are light brown but the center is still gooey. This helps ensure a moist cake that will perfectly support the buttery topping to come.
Create the rich crumb topping
While the cake is baking, let’s make that unforgettable crumb topping. In a separate large bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and flour. Add in the cold, cubed butter, and use your fingers to rub it until you have a mix of medium crumbs. This topping will create an irresistible texture once baked!
Final baking of the crumb cake
Remove the cake from the oven and sprinkle about ¾ of the crumb topping evenly over it. Don’t skimp here; this is where the decadence lies! Return the cake to the oven and bake for another 10 to 12 minutes, until the topping is firm and the cake is cooked through.
Once done, allow it to cool to room temperature before dusting with confectioners' sugar.
And there you have it! An outrageously buttery crumb cake that will make your taste buds sing and keep your friends asking for seconds. Happy baking!
Variations on Outrageously Buttery Crumb Cake
Enhance it with Fruit Toppings
One delightful way to elevate your outrageously buttery crumb cake is by adding fresh fruit toppings. Think juicy blueberries, tart raspberries, or sweet peaches—these fruits not only brighten the cake visually but also add a refreshing zing that balances the richness. Simply scatter your chosen fruit over the batter before adding the crumb topping. You can also experiment with a fruit coulis drizzled on top after baking for an extra touch of elegance.
Experiment with Different Spices
While cinnamon is a classic choice, don’t hesitate to get adventurous! Consider trying nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor or cardamom for a unique twist. A pinch of allspice or ginger can also bring a delightful complexity to your cake. Mixing in different spices will make your outrageously buttery crumb cake uniquely yours and keep everyone guessing about that secret ingredient!
Explore creativity in your baking journey, and don’t forget to share your delicious discoveries with us!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Outrageously Buttery Crumb Cake
Importance of Ingredient Temperature
When making your outrageously buttery crumb cake, the temperature of your ingredients plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect texture. Use room temperature butter and eggs to ensure that they blend smoothly into the batter. Cold butter can create a lumpy mixture, while eggs kept at room temperature help the cake to rise uniformly.
How to Store Your Crumb Cake
To enjoy your delicious crumb cake longer, keep it stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you'd like to keep it for an extended period, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. This way, your decadent treat can be savored later—just remember to let it thaw in the fridge before serving! For more storage tips, check this guide.
Serving Suggestions for Outrageously Buttery Crumb Cake
Perfect Accompaniments to Serve With
Enjoy your outrageously buttery crumb cake with a variety of delightful pairings! For breakfast or brunch, think fresh berries, which add a vibrant splash of color and acidity to balance the richness. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream elevates each slice to dessert heaven. If you’re sipping coffee or tea, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce can be a delicious addition.
Creative Plating Ideas
Take your crumb cake presentation up a notch! Consider using a simple white plate to keep the focus on the cake's beautiful layers. For an elegant touch, serve individual portions on dessert glassware, garnished with mint leaves. Dust the top with powdered sugar right before serving to give it that Instagram-worthy look. It’s all about making your decadent creation feel just as special as it tastes!
Time Breakdown for Outrageously Buttery Crumb Cake
Preparation Time
In just 15 minutes, you can gather your ingredients and mix them to create the base for this decadent cake. Don’t rush—enjoy the process!
Baking Time
After baking the outrageously buttery crumb cake for about 30 minutes, your kitchen will fill with a sweet aroma that’s irresistible.
Total Time
From start to finish, you’ll need 1 hour and 45 minutes. This includes time for the cake to cool before serving, ensuring every delightful bite is perfect.
For more tips on baking and recipe inspiration, check out Allrecipes and embrace your inner baker!
Nutritional Facts for Outrageously Buttery Crumb Cake
When indulging in an outrageously buttery crumb cake, it's good to know what you're treating yourself to. Here's a quick look at the nutritional benefits per serving, based on a cake yielding 16 slices:
- Calories: 559
- Total Fat: 28g (Saturated Fat: 16g)
- Protein: 7g
This delightful dessert offers a rich combination of flavors and textures. If you're interested in healthier alternatives or substitutions, consider reading more about caloric density at Harvard Health. Enjoy this cake responsibly, knowing it’s a rich treat that brings joy to any gathering!
FAQ about Outrageously Buttery Crumb Cake
How can I make it less sweet?
If you're looking to tone down the sweetness of your outrageously buttery crumb cake, consider reducing the amount of brown sugar in the crumb topping. You can start with 1 cup instead of 1 ⅓ cups and adjust to your liking. Another option is to add a touch more cinnamon; it can enhance flavor without adding sweetness. You might also try using unsweetened applesauce as a partial substitute for the sugar in the cake mix.
What is the best way to store leftover cake?
To keep your outrageously buttery crumb cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its life, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in the freezer, where they can last for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it at room temperature before enjoying!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake is perfect for making ahead. You can bake it a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld! Just remember to add the confectioners' sugar dusting right before serving for that delightful finishing touch.
Conclusion on Outrageously Buttery Crumb Cake
In summary, this outrageously buttery crumb cake is a culinary gem that balances comfort and indulgence. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home, it’s sure to impress. Remember, the key to perfection is in the buttery crumb topping! Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every delicious bite!
For more baking inspiration, check out King Arthur Baking for tips on ingredient substitutions and techniques, or explore Food52 for innovative dessert ideas that will elevate your baking game!
Outrageously Buttery Crumb Cake
Equipment
- electric mixer
- Mixing bowl
- jellyroll pan
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 15.25 ounce yellow cake mix
- ⅔ cup water
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 1 ⅓ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon or to taste
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups cold butter, cubed
- 1 tablespoon confectioners' sugar for dusting (Optional)
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Gather all ingredients.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 12x18-inch jellyroll pan.
- Beat yellow cake mix, water, eggs, and ½ cup softened butter together with an electric mixer in a mixing bowl until thoroughly blended, about 2 minutes on medium speed. Pour the cake batter into the prepared jellyroll pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the edges of the cake are light brown but the middle of the cake is still slightly gooey, 15 to 17 minutes.
- Meanwhile, make the crumb topping: Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and flour together in a large bowl. Rub in 1 ½ cups butter until the mixture forms medium crumbs.
- Remove cake from the oven, and press about ¾ of the crumb topping onto the top of the almost-baked cake. Reserve the remaining topping.
- Return cake to the oven, and bake an additional 10 to 12 minutes, until the crumb topping is firm and cake is cooked all the way through.
- Remove cake from the oven, and sprinkle with remaining crumb topping. Let cake cool to room temperature, and sprinkle with confectioners' sugar.
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