New York Crumb Cake
New York Crumb Cake is a classic bakery treat that’s adored by many. The combination of a soft, moist cake base topped with a rich, crumbly topping is simply irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying it during breakfast, having it as an afternoon snack, or serving it at a gathering, this cake is sure to please everyone. With its delightful cinnamon flavor and pleasing texture, it’s a recipe that brings a little bit of New York charm to your kitchen.
What You’ll Need for New York Crumb Cake
To whip up this delicious treat, gather the following ingredients:
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For the Topping:
- 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup (70 g) dark brown sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon table salt
- 8 tablespoons (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 3/4 cups (225 g) cake flour
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For the Cake:
- 1 1/4 cups (160 g) cake flour
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon table salt
- 6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) liquid buttermilk
- Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Step-by-Step New York Crumb Cake Recipe
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Make the Topping: In a bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until well combined. Gradually add the cake flour, mixing until the mixture resembles a thick dough. Let it cool to room temperature for about 10 to 15 minutes.
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Prepare the Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper for easier removal of your cake.
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Mix the Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the softened butter, mixing until the mixture is crumbly. Beat in the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and buttermilk. Mix until the batter is fluffy and well combined.
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Assemble the Cake: Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Break the crumb topping into pieces and sprinkle it generously over the batter.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before dusting with confectioners’ sugar and serving.
How to Serve New York Crumb Cake
This delectable New York Crumb Cake is perfect for various occasions. You can serve it warm or at room temperature. For a delightful touch, pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A hot cup of coffee or tea complements the cake’s sweetness beautifully and makes it a perfect treat for brunch or dessert. You can also enjoy it with fresh berries for an added burst of flavor.
Expert Tips for New York Crumb Cake
- Keep It Moist: If you prefer an even moister cake, add an extra tablespoon of buttermilk to the batter.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the crumb topping for an extra crunch!
New York Crumb Cake FAQs
1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?
Yes, while cake flour gives the best texture for this recipe, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour. Just be sure to lightly spoon it into the measuring cup without packing it down.
2. How can I make this cake dairy-free?
To make this cake dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use non-dairy milk instead of buttermilk. You can create a buttermilk substitute by mixing a cup of almond milk with a teaspoon of vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.
3. How do I know when the cake is done?
The cake is done when it’s golden brown on top, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs stuck to it.
Whipping up a New York Crumb Cake is a wonderful way to enjoy a taste of New York right at home. Its delightful combination of flavors and textures makes it a treat that you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy this delightful cake!
New York Crumb Cake
Ingredients
For the Topping
- 1/3 cup 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup 1/3 cup (70 g) dark brown sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon 1/8 teaspoon table salt
- 8 tablespoons 8 tablespoons (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 3/4 cups 1 3/4 cups (225 g) cake flour
For the Cake
- 1 1/4 cups 1 1/4 cups (160 g) cake flour
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon 1/4 teaspoon table salt
- 6 tablespoons 6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large 1 large egg
- 1 large 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup 1/3 cup (80 ml) liquid buttermilk
- Confectioners’ sugar for dusting For serving
Instructions
Make the Topping
- In a bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Stir in the melted butter until well combined.
- Gradually add the cake flour, mixing until the mixture resembles a thick dough.
- Let it cool to room temperature for about 10 to 15 minutes.
Prepare the Oven and Dish
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Line a baking dish with parchment paper for easier removal of your cake.
Mix the Cake Batter
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the softened butter, mixing until the mixture is crumbly.
- Beat in the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and buttermilk.
- Mix until the batter is fluffy and well combined.
Assemble the Cake
- Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Break the crumb topping into pieces and sprinkle it generously over the batter.
Bake to Perfection
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before dusting with confectioners’ sugar and serving.

