New York Style Crumb Cake

There’s something truly special about a classic New York Style Crumb Cake. Growing up, my weekends often revolved around the sweet aroma of this cake wafting through the house. It was a family tradition to bake it together on Saturday mornings, filling our kitchen with laughter and chatter. The crumbly topping, which is the star of the show, always brought us together around the table, sharing stories and enjoying each other’s company. Each forkful of the soft cake combined with that delightful crumb topping felt like a warm hug. I still remember those moments, and I can’t help but smile every time I take a bite of this rich, buttery treat. The New York Style Crumb Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a nostalgic journey back to cherished times spent with loved ones.

New York Style Crumb Cake Ingredients

The ingredients for the New York Style Crumb Cake are straightforward yet incredibly effective. Each plays a crucial role in building the flavor and texture that makes this cake so beloved. The combination of moist cake and crumbly topping results in a dessert that’s both comforting and delightful.

• Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, room temperature): Provides richness and moisture, making the cake tender and flavorful.
• Granulated sugar (¾ cup): Sweetens the cake and adds to the overall texture.
• Eggs (2 large): Acts as a binder and adds richness.
• Sour cream (¼ cup): Introduces tanginess and adds moisture to the cake.
• Vanilla extract (½ teaspoon): Enhances the flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
• All-purpose flour (1 ¼ cups): The main structure of the cake, giving it body.
• Baking soda (½ teaspoon): Helps the cake rise, giving it a light texture.
• Baking powder (½ teaspoon): Works alongside baking soda for a perfect rise.
• Salt (⅛ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, melted, slightly cooled): Adds richness and helps create the crumb topping.
• Light brown sugar (¼ cup): Brings a hint of caramel flavor to the crumb topping.
• Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens the crumb topping.
• Molasses (1 tablespoon): Adds depth and moisture to the crumb topping.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup): Forms the base of the crumb topping, making it thick and crumbly.
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Introduces warmth and spice to the crumb topping.
• Salt (⅛ teaspoon): Balances the flavors in the crumb topping.

Making This New York Style Crumb Cake

Making the New York Style Crumb Cake is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with amazing aromas. Let’s dive into the steps to create this masterpiece. Each step is crucial to ensure your cake comes out just right!

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease an 8 by 8-inch square baking pan and set it aside. This step is essential to ensure your cake doesn’t stick to the pan, allowing for easy release after baking.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour (1 ¼ cups), baking soda (½ teaspoon), baking powder (½ teaspoon), and salt (⅛ teaspoon). This mixture provides the necessary leavening and structure your cake needs.
3. In a large mixing bowl, use a stand mixer to cream the unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, room temperature) for about 30 seconds. As you cream it, it should become lighter in color and fluffy.
4. Gradually add the granulated sugar (¾ cup) while continuing to cream. This should take a few minutes until the mixture is fluffy and light. The sugar helps to aerate the butter, making the cake rise beautifully.
5. Add the eggs (2 large), one at a time, beating well after each addition. The eggs will contribute to the richness and structure of the cake.
6. Next, add the vanilla extract (½ teaspoon) and mix well, allowing it to infuse the batter with its warm flavor.
7. Now, alternately add the dry ingredients and the sour cream (¼ cup) to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. This helps incorporate the ingredients without overmixing, which can toughen the cake. Mix until just combined; the batter will be thick.
8. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Make sure to reach the corners for even baking.
9. To prepare the topping, in a medium mixing bowl, stir together the light brown sugar (¼ cup), another granulated sugar (¼ cup), molasses (1 tablespoon), cinnamon (1 teaspoon), and salt (⅛ teaspoon). Mix well to ensure all ingredients are combined.
10. Add the melted unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, slightly cooled) into the mixture and stir until it forms a thick dough. This topping provides the signature crumbly texture that makes this cake special.
11. Breaking the dough into pieces with your fingers, sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter in the pan. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; the rustic look adds charm.
12. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
13. Once baked, cool the cake in the pan. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to cut into squares.

Making Adjustments

Making the New York Style Crumb Cake is easy, but there are always ways to adjust it to your taste. Here are some helpful tips for creating the best version of this cake.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This will keep the cake fresh and moist.
• Freezing: You can freeze this cake for up to two months. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Pairing: This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s also delicious with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Flavor variations: Feel free to add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for added flavor and texture.
• Serving size: Consider cutting the cake into small squares, perfect for sharing at gatherings or parties.

Perfect Pairings for New York Style Crumb Cake

When it comes to serving the New York Style Crumb Cake, there are a multitude of ways to enjoy it. Here are some suggestions to elevate your serving experience:

• With Coffee: Enjoying a slice with a hot cup of coffee is a classic combination that many love. The rich flavors complement each other perfectly.
• At Brunch: This cake makes an excellent addition to any brunch spread. Serve it alongside fruit salads, yogurt, or savory dishes to balance the flavors.
• Holiday Gatherings: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a family reunion, the New York Style Crumb Cake is sure to please guests of all ages. It’s an inviting treat that encourages everyone to gather around the table.
• Picnic Treat: Pack slices of this cake for your next picnic. It holds up well and is easy to transport, making it a crowd-pleaser outdoors.
• Seasonal Pairings: In warmer months, consider serving it with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries. In colder months, a warm cup of spiced cider pairs nicely.
• Storage Tips: Remember to keep any leftover cake in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and freshness for several days.

FAQ

Conclusion

The New York Style Crumb Cake truly embodies the essence of homey baking with its comforting flavors and delightful textures. It’s a recipe that brings back cherished memories and creates new ones with each bite. I encourage you to try making this cake and share it with your loved ones. It’s the perfect treat for any occasion, and I guarantee it will leave everyone asking for seconds!

New York Style Crumb Cake

The ultimate comfort food, the New York Style Crumb Cake combines a moist, buttery cake with a rich, crumbly topping. Perfect for brunch or dessert, this easy-to-make treat will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 tablespoon Unsalted butter room temperature
• ¾ cup Granulated sugar
• 2 large Eggs
• ¼ cup Sour cream
• ½ teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 1 ¼ cup All-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon Baking soda
• ½ teaspoon Baking powder
• ⅛ teaspoon Salt
• 6 tablespoon Unsalted butter melted, slightly cooled
• ¼ cup Light brown sugar
• ¼ cup Granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon Molasses
• 1 cup All-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
• ⅛ teaspoon Salt

Equipment

• Frying pan
• Wooden Spoon
• Oven
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease an 8"x8" square baking pan and set aside.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour (1 ¼ cups), baking soda (½ teaspoon), baking powder (½ teaspoon), and salt (⅛ teaspoon). Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, use a stand mixer to cream unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, room temperature) for about 30 seconds. Gradually add granulated sugar (¾ cup) while continuing to cream until the mixture is fluffy and light.
4. Add eggs (2 large), one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Add vanilla extract (½ teaspoon) and mix well.
6. Alternately add the dry ingredients and sour cream (¼ cup) to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; the batter will be thick.
7. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
8. To prepare the topping, in a medium mixing bowl, stir together light brown sugar (¼ cup), granulated sugar (¼ cup), molasses (1 tablespoon), cinnamon (1 teaspoon), and salt (⅛ teaspoon). Add melted unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, slightly cooled) and stir until it forms a thick dough.
9. Breaking the dough into pieces with your fingers, sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter in the pan.
10. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
11. Once baked, cool the cake in the pan to allow the flavors to settle.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this cake for up to two months. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Pairing: This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Flavor variations: Feel free to add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.
• Serving size: Consider cutting the cake into small squares, perfect for sharing at gatherings.

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Meet Brooke Davis

I’m all about cozy, comforting food made with fresh, local ingredients. I develop most of our weeknight dinners and heartier main dishes. My specialty is taking a classic comfort food and giving it a bright, California twist. We all cook and test together, but I’m usually the one in charge of the main event and making sure every recipe is perfect.