Skip to Content
Recipes

Apple Crumb Cake

Appetito's "Dolce Queen" Ale Gambini shares a delectable apple crumb cake dessert perfect for autumn.

Apple Crumb Cake.

Ale Gambini’s Apple Crumb Cake.

Apple cream crumb cake is a delectable fusion of flavors and textures that tantalize the taste buds.

The rich milk cream is crafted from a blend of whole milk, heavy whipping cream, eggs, and a splash of vanilla, enveloping the diced apples with its luxurious embrace.

As the cake bakes, the crumb turns golden brown, the milk cream transforms into a delicate custard, and the diced apples become soft and tangy.

Serve dusted lightly with powdered sugar and a dollop of whipped cream. Each slice carries an autumnal charm.

Apple Crumb Cake

Apple Crumb Cake

Recipe by Ale Gambini
5.0 from 1 vote
Servings

8

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

35

minutes

Ingredients

  • For the milk cream
  • 3/4 cup 3/4 heavy whipping cream

  • 1 1 -1/4 cups whole milk

  • 2 2 eggs

  • 1/4 cup 1/4 sugar

  • 1 teaspoon 1 vanilla extract

  • 1/3 cup 1/3 flour type 00

  • For the crumble crust
  • 2.5 cups 2.5 flour type 00

  • 1 pinch 1 salt

  • 8 grams 8 vanilla baking powder (Bertolini or Paneangeli)

  • 8 tablespoons 8 unsalted butter, cold

  • 4.5 ounces 4.5 granulated sugar

  • 1 1 egg, slightly beaten

  • For the filling
  • 2 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced

  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Directions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  • Heat the milk, heavy whipping cream, and vanilla extract slowly in a saucepan until small bubbles form around the edges of the pan.
  • Meanwhile, in a separate saucepan, whisk the eggs and sugar together until fluffy. Then, stir in the flour until well mixed.
  • Add the milk mixture to the egg mixture little by little. Bring to a boil and cook until it starts to thicken. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
  • In a medium bowl, sift the flour, salt, and vanilla baking powder.
  • Add the sugar and diced cold butter, and work with your fingertips until a sandy mixture forms.
  • Add the egg and work briefly until the mixture turns into big crumbs.
  • Line a 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper.
  • Place half of the crumb mixture into the cake pan.
  • Gently spread half of the milk cream over the crumbs, then add the diced apples and the remaining milk cream.
  • Cover the cream with the remaining half of the crumb mixture.
  • Bake for 35 minutes.
  • Allow it to cool completely in its pan.
  • Serve lightly dusted with powdered sugar.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @appetitomagazine on Instagram and hashtag it with #italianfoodanddrink

Like this recipe?

Follow @Appetitomagazine on Pinterest

Follow us on Facebook!

Follow us on Facebook

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Appetito

Basta Cheap Pasta: Prepare to Pay More by Choice Not Tariff

Our Editor-in-Chief weighs in on the pasta tariff controversy while introducing a new series dedicated to artisinal pastas from Italy.

November 21, 2025

‘Ino’s Red Wattle Pork Meatballs Already Feel Iconic

Chef Jamie Kenyon’s Red Wattle pork meatballs have become a signature at ‘Ino, earning a devoted following for their delicate texture, vibrant flavor, and thoughtful nod to both heritage and tradition.

November 20, 2025

Ziggy’s Roman Cafe Finds Its Place in DUMBO

A new Roman-inspired cafe brings easygoing Italian cooking, neighborhood energy, and a family-centered spirit to DUMBO.

November 19, 2025

Finding “Il Dolce Far Niente” Before the Holiday Rush

Italian-inspired rituals to bring more calm and intention into November.

November 19, 2025

Why Illy’s Caramellow is the Little Coffee Indulgence You Need

Illy’s Caramellow blends bold Brazil Cerrado Mineiro espresso with silky caramel cream for a sweet, layered coffee moment.

November 18, 2025
See all posts