Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe

ByAmanda

I’ve always been baffled by how a simple apple cake can feel like a warm hug on a chilly day, and this Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe absolutely delivers that comfort, with a delightful crumbly topping and tender apples baked right in. If you’re craving a slice of cozy, fruity goodness that’s just begging to be shared over a cuppa, you’re in the right place. Trust me, once you try this one, it’ll quickly become your new go-to for dessert or an afternoon treat.

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Perfect balance of textures: The soft, moist cake contrasts beautifully with the crunchy streusel topping for a satisfying bite.
  • Classic Irish flavors: Tart Granny Smith apples and cinnamon come together for that authentic comforting feel.
  • Simple method with big results: No fancy techniques needed, just straightforward steps that anyone can follow to create a showstopper.
  • Custard sauce complement: The homemade custard sauce adds a luxurious creamy element that takes this cake to the next level.
Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Topping, Irish apple cake recipe, apple crumble cake with streusel, homemade Irish apple dessert, easy apple cake with topping - The image shows a round crumb cake with a thick, golden brown base layer and a light beige crumbly topping that is rough in texture and unevenly spread. The cake is placed on a metal cooling rack on a white marbled surface. Behind the cake, there are two green apples and a small clear glass jar filled with a creamy yellow sauce with a spoon inside. To the right of the cake, there is a silver knife with a wooden handle and a silver fork resting on a light beige cloth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

When you peek at the ingredients for this Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe, you’ll realize it’s all about familiar, wholesome components working harmoniously. Each one is chosen to enhance the cake’s tender crumb and that irresistible streusel crunch.

Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Topping, Irish apple cake recipe, apple crumble cake with streusel, homemade Irish apple dessert, easy apple cake with topping - Flat lay of unsalted butter at room temperature in a small slice, granulated sugar in a neat pile, two whole brown eggs with clean shells, a small white ceramic bowl of whole milk, all purpose flour in a small mound, a small white bowl with baking powder powder, a small white bowl of ground cinnamon, a small pinch of salt in a white bowl, three fresh Granny Smith apples peeled and thinly sliced with bright green skin edges visible, old fashioned rolled oats in a small white bowl, cold unsalted butter cut into small cubes, confectioner’s sugar dusted lightly in a small white bowl, six fresh large egg yolks in a small white bowl separated from whites, pure vanilla liquid in a small white bowl, all ingredients arranged symmetrically and proportionally on a clean white ceramic surface, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Unsalted butter: Using unsalted butter gives you full control over the saltiness and helps create that tender crumb and rich streusel texture.
  • Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and the streusel without overpowering the natural tartness of the apples.
  • Large eggs: Eggs add structure and moisture, ensuring your cake rises nicely without drying out.
  • Whole milk or cream: Adds richness and moisture—cream will make it extra decadent, but milk works just fine.
  • All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake and topping, providing just the right density.
  • Baking powder: This ingredient is essential for lightening the cake and giving it that perfect rise.
  • Cinnamon: A warm spice that pairs perfectly with the apples, elevating the flavor profile.
  • Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the flavors and balance sweetness.
  • Granny Smith apples: Tart and firm, they hold up well in the bake and keep the cake from feeling too sweet or mushy.
  • Old fashioned rolled oats: In the streusel, oats add texture and rustic charm.
  • Confectioner’s sugar: For a light dusting finish that makes the cake look as good as it tastes.
  • Egg yolks and vanilla: Key players in the custard sauce, where yolks thicken and vanilla adds that comforting aroma.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

One of the things I love most about this Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe is how easily you can make it your own. Whether you like it a little sweeter, spicier, or need to swap ingredients for dietary reasons, there’s room to customize.

  • Extra spices: Sometimes I add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for deeper warmth during cooler months—it’s subtle but lovely.
  • Fruit swaps: If Granny Smith apples aren’t available, you can use Bramley or even pears, but keep them firm so they don’t turn mushy.
  • Dairy-free variations: I’ve used almond milk and vegan butter with success, just be mindful the custard sauce texture will change slightly.
  • Less sugar: Feel free to dial down the sugar in either the cake or streusel if you prefer a less sweet dessert; the apple’s tartness balances it nicely.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe

Step 1: Preparing Your Pan and Custard Sauce

First things first: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch springform pan well. This pan makes it easier to remove the cake without breaking that delicate streusel crust. Then, if you want to get ahead, start on the custard sauce. I always find making the custard first is a game-changer—it’s like having a wonderful sidekick ready to elevate the cake later. Heat the milk to a gentle simmer, then carefully whisk some into the yolks to temper them. Slowly combine and cook the mixture on medium heat, stirring often until it thickens enough to coat a spoon. Remember, patience here is key to avoid curdling, and that creamy vanilla-infused custard will be chilling while you finish the cake.

Step 2: Making the Streusel Topping

While the custard cools, mix your streusel topping by cutting the cold butter into the flour, oats, and sugar until you get a coarse, crumbly texture. I like to use my fingers for this—it gives you more control than a food processor. Pop this mixture into the fridge while you make the cake batter; keeping the butter cold is essential to getting that perfect crunch.

Step 3: Crafting the Cake Batter

Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy—that’s about 3-4 minutes with a mixer. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well between each addition to keep that mixture light. Next, whisk together the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt—and gently fold them into the wet ingredients along with the milk. Don’t overmix here; you want to combine until just blended or the cake might turn tough.

Step 4: Layering Apples and Streusel

Pour the batter into your pan and smooth it out evenly. Now comes the fun part—top with your thinly sliced Granny Smith apples. No need to be fussy about arrangement; I just spread them out evenly to cover the batter. Finally, sprinkle your chilled streusel topping all over the apples. Seeing that mix of soft batter, tart apples, and crumbly topping ready to bake is half the joy!

Step 5: Baking and Cooling

Bake for about 50 to 60 minutes, until the streusel is golden and a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out with no wet batter clinging. I always keep an eye on it after 50 minutes, as ovens can vary, and there’s nothing worse than an overbaked cake. Let it cool in the pan for a bit before releasing the springform sides. Just before serving, dust generously with powdered sugar—it’s like frosting without the fuss.

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Pro Tips for Making Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe

  • Keep butter cold for streusel: Chilled butter bits create that perfect crumbly topping texture, so avoid letting it soften before mixing.
  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith: Their acidity balances the sweetness and holds texture well during baking.
  • Don’t overcook the custard sauce: Stir constantly and remove it when it coats a spoon to avoid curdling—your patience pays off with silky texture.
  • Even apple layer: Spreading apples evenly ensures uniform baking and a consistent bite in every slice.

How to Serve Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe

Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Topping, Irish apple cake recipe, apple crumble cake with streusel, homemade Irish apple dessert, easy apple cake with topping - A slice of crumb cake with three clear layers sits on a white plate with blue floral patterns: the bottom layer is a light golden-brown cake base, the middle layer is a thin, soft filling, and the top layer is a crumbly, golden topping. A pale yellow creamy sauce is thickly poured over the crumb topping, slightly dripping down the sides and pooling on the plate. A silver fork rests on the left side of the plate, on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I’m a big fan of dusting this cake with powdered sugar—it adds a touch of sweetness and just a little elegance. For a special touch, drizzle some of that chilled custard sauce over each slice when serving, turning a humble dessert into a little celebration on your plate.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a strong cup of Irish breakfast tea or a freshly brewed coffee to balance its sweetness. Sometimes I serve it alongside a small bowl of lightly whipped cream or even fresh berries for a bright contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gatherings, I like to trim the streusel into little shapes with cookie cutters before baking, making each slice feel festive and gift-worthy. I’ve also layered individual portions in glass jars for picnics or outdoor parties—kids and adults alike love the rustic charm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Topping wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days—this keeps the streusel crunchy and the cake moist. If your kitchen is warm, I recommend refrigerating leftovers to avoid spoilage.

Freezing

Freezing works well for this cake! Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. The texture remains delightful, though I recommend serving with fresh custard sauce for that extra creaminess.

Reheating

For reheating, I pop a slice in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm it gently in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes. This revives the flavors without drying out the cake, and the streusel stays delightfully crisp!

FAQs

  1. Can I use other types of apples for this Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe?

    Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tart flavor and firmness, you can use other firm apple varieties such as Bramley, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady. Just avoid overly soft apples as they might become mushy during baking, which can affect the cake’s texture.

  2. Is the custard sauce necessary?

    Not at all, the cake is delicious on its own, but the custard sauce adds an indulgent creaminess that perfectly complements the warm spices and tart apple layers. It’s worth taking the extra time to make if you want to impress or elevate the dessert experience.

  3. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

    You can! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum or similar binding agents. Just keep in mind that gluten-free flours might change the crumb slightly, and the streusel topping may be a bit more delicate, so handle gently.

  4. What if I don’t have a springform pan?

    A regular 9-inch round cake pan works fine—just grease and line the pan well with parchment paper to help remove the cake. The springform just makes it easier to release the delicate topping without damage.

Final Thoughts

This Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe feels like a treasured family secret, passed down but still inviting new twists and touches. I adore how it manages to be both simple and sophisticated, making your kitchen smell incredible and your friends ask for seconds. If you’re hunting for a dessert that’s warm, approachable, and absolutely delicious, I can’t recommend this cake enough. Go on, grab those apples and butter, and let’s bake something you’ll want to make again and again.

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