Vanilla crumb cake recipe is a rich and tender cake topped with a sweet, buttery crumb that adds texture and flavor. My addiction to baking brought me back to this vanilla crumb cake recipe many times, experimenting and adjusting ingredients to suit taste.
I have made this vanilla crumb cake recipe repeatedly, sometimes adding extra vanilla or tweaking the crumb topping for a slightly crispier finish.
Today I will show step by step how I prepare this vanilla crumb cake recipe, sharing the process I follow in my kitchen, including the small modifications that make this vanilla crumb cake uniquely mine.
About This Vanilla Crumb Cake Recipe
Vanilla crumb cake recipe has a soft, moist texture and a rich, buttery flavor balanced by a slightly tangy hint from the buttermilk. The crumb topping adds a sweet, slightly crunchy layer that complements the tender cake beneath.
Ingredients include unsalted butter, granulated sugar, buttermilk, cake flour, eggs, egg whites, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pure vanilla extract.
The topping requires granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and melted salted butter. The result is a tender, flavorful cake with a sweet, golden crumb that melts in the mouth and leaves a delicate vanilla aroma.
How To Prepare Vanilla Crumb Cake Recipe?
Preparation Details
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Yield: 12 servings
Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- 9×13-inch baking pan (or similar size)
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk, at room temperature
- 3 ⅔ cups cake flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs + 2 additional egg whites, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
For the Crumb Topping:
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 4–6 tablespoons salted butter, slightly melted
Instructions
1. Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it with butter or non-stick spray, dust lightly with flour, or line with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the crumb topping by mixing ⅓ cup sugar, ½ cup all-purpose flour, and 4–6 tablespoons slightly melted butter in a bowl. Use a fork to break the mixture into coarse crumbs. Set aside.
3. Mix the dry ingredients in another bowl: 3 ⅔ cups cake flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, ¾ teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon salt. Beat 1 ½ cups softened butter with 2 cups granulated sugar until fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
4. Add 3 whole eggs and 2 egg whites one at a time, followed by 1 tablespoon vanilla extract. Beat until incorporated.
5. Add the dry flour mixture in three portions, alternating with 1 ½ cups buttermilk in two portions. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the batter.
7. Bake for 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake rest in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting.
Nutrition Facts Of Vanilla crumb cake Recipe
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 430 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 60 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11 g |
| Sugar | 38 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
Why Peoples Like Vanilla Crumb Cake Recipe?
People like vanilla crumb cake recipe for several reasons. The cake is soft, moist, and tender, with a delicate vanilla flavor that appeals to many tastes.
The crumb topping adds a sweet, slightly crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the cake, making every bite enjoyable.
It is comforting and familiar, evoking memories of homemade baking and family gatherings. The recipe is versatile enough to enjoy for breakfast, dessert, or snacks.
Many appreciate that it can be made in a single pan, is visually appealing, and has a balanced sweetness that isn’t overwhelming.
Why My Recipe Works
My vanilla crumb cake recipe works because the ingredients and methods create the right balance of moisture, structure, and flavor.
The softened butter and sugar are creamed properly, incorporating air that helps the cake rise and stay light. Buttermilk adds tenderness and a subtle tang, while the combination of eggs and egg whites provides structure without heaviness.
Cake flour keeps the texture soft, and the careful mixing prevents overworking the batter, avoiding a dense cake.
The crumb topping adds texture and flavor, baking into a golden, slightly crunchy layer that complements the soft cake perfectly.
My Favorite Ways To Serve It Up
My favorite ways to enjoy vanilla crumb cake recipe include pairing it with a warm cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or an afternoon treat.
Warming the cake slightly enhances its soft, tender texture and brings out the flavor of the crumb topping. Cutting it into squares makes it easy to share at gatherings, brunches, or holiday celebrations.
It also works beautifully as a simple dessert on its own or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This vanilla crumb cake recipe is versatile, comforting, and always satisfying, making it a favorite for any occasion.
Health Benefits Vanilla Crumb Cake Recipe
Indulge in a vanilla crumb cake recipe that’s both delicious and nourishing. Using whole-grain flour boosts fiber, supporting digestion and heart health.
Natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup reduce refined sugar intake, helping maintain stable energy. Adding Greek yogurt or plant-based alternatives increases protein and calcium for strong bones.
A touch of healthy oils or nut butter provides essential fats for brain function. Cinnamon or vanilla extract adds flavor without extra sugar, making each slice a wholesome treat for mindful enjoyment.
Expert Baking Tips
1. Bring ingredients to room temperature. Butter, eggs, and buttermilk blend more evenly when at room temperature, creating a smooth, airy batter that rises better.
2. Measure flour correctly. Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off instead of scooping, which prevents a dense, dry cake.
3. Cream butter and sugar well. Beat until light and fluffy to trap air for a tender, soft texture.
4. Alternate wet and dry ingredients. Add flour in portions, alternating with buttermilk, keeping the batter smooth and avoiding over mixing.
5. Evenly distribute crumb topping. Press lightly or sprinkle consistently so every slice has a crunchy, sweet layer.
6. Check doneness carefully. Use a toothpick or skewer in the center and remove the cake once it comes out clean to avoid drying it out.
How To Make With More Delicious
✔ Add a Fruit Layer – Incorporate fresh or lightly macerated fruit like blueberries, raspberries, sliced apples, or peaches between the batter and crumb topping. The fruit adds natural sweetness, juiciness, and a subtle tang that balances the richness of the cake, making every bite more flavorful and moist.
✔ Drizzle a Glaze – After the cake cools slightly, prepare a simple glaze with powdered sugar and a touch of milk, cream, or lemon juice. Pouring it over the crumb cake adds sweetness, a delicate sheen, and a slight tang if citrus is used, enhancing both appearance and taste.
✔ Use Browned Butter – Replace regular butter with browned butter in the batter or crumb topping. Browning develops a nutty, caramel-like flavor that deepens the cake’s richness, giving it a sophisticated, irresistible taste that pairs beautifully with the crumb topping.
✔ Mix in Nuts – Chop pecans, walnuts, or almonds and sprinkle them into the crumb topping or fold lightly into the batter. The nuts provide crunch, a toasty flavor, and an additional layer of texture, elevating the cake beyond just soft and sweet.
Variations For Vanilla Crumb Cake
➢ Chocolate Chip Crumb Cake – Fold mini chocolate chips into the batter for pockets of melted chocolate throughout the cake.
➢ Berry Swirl Crumb Cake – Gently fold fresh or frozen berries, like blueberries or raspberries, into the batter for a fruity twist.
➢ Lemon Vanilla Crumb Cake – Add lemon zest to the batter and a few drops of lemon juice to the crumb topping for a bright, tangy flavor.
➢ Nutty Crumb Cake – Mix chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds into the topping for added crunch and a nutty aroma.
➢ Caramel or Toffee Crumb Cake – Drizzle caramel sauce over the baked cake or fold in small toffee bits into the batter to create a richer, indulgent dessert.
Substitutions
➤ Butter – Replace with equal parts margarine, coconut oil, or vegetable oil for a dairy-free or slightly lighter version.
➤ Buttermilk – Substitute with regular milk plus 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar per cup, or use plain yogurt.
➤ Cake Flour – Use all-purpose flour minus 2 tablespoons per cup, sifted, to mimic the lighter texture of cake flour.
➤ Sugar – Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar, brown sugar, or a sugar substitute in equal amounts.
➤ Eggs – For each egg, use ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce, mashed banana, or a commercial egg replacer for a vegan option.
➤ Vanilla Extract – Substitute with almond extract, maple extract, or another flavoring, adjusting amounts to taste.
➤ Crumb Topping Butter – Can use margarine, coconut oil, or a plant-based butter substitute.
Storage Instructions
Vanilla crumb cake recipe should be stored properly to maintain its freshness and texture. Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, keep the cake in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, ensuring it is well covered to avoid absorbing odors.
The vanilla crumb cake recipe can also be frozen for up to 2 months; wrap it in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
This delicious and amazing healthy vanilla crumb cake recipe is truly loved by everyone! Every time I make it, it’s a hit, whether for serving guests or enjoying at home.
Its soft, fluffy texture combined with the sweet, crunchy crumb topping makes it irresistible. I’m thrilled to share my easy method so you can recreate this delightful treat without any hassle.
I hope you give vanilla crumb cake recipe a try and enjoy every bite as much as I do it’s a perfect cake for any occasion and sure to bring smiles all around!
More Vanilla Cake Recipes You’ll Love
Classic Vanilla Cake Blueberry Filling
Vanilla Cake With Strawberry Filling
Vanilla Cake With Chocolate Ganache – Bakery Cooked
Caribbean‑Style Rum Vanilla Cake Recipe
Vanilla Cake With Mayonnaise – No Eggs Needed
Vanilla Crumb Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- 9×13 inch baking pan (or similar size)
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk at room temperature
- 3 ⅔ cups cake flour spooned and leveled
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs + 2 additional egg whites at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
For the Crumb Topping:
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 –6 tablespoons salted butter slightly melted
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it with butter or non-stick spray, dust lightly with flour, or line with parchment paper.
- Prepare the crumb topping by mixing ⅓ cup sugar, ½ cup all-purpose flour, and 4–6 tablespoons slightly melted butter in a bowl. Use a fork to break the mixture into coarse crumbs. Set aside.
- Mix the dry ingredients in another bowl: 3 ⅔ cups cake flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, ¾ teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon salt. Beat 1 ½ cups softened butter with 2 cups granulated sugar until fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add 3 whole eggs and 2 egg whites one at a time, followed by 1 tablespoon vanilla extract. Beat until incorporated.
- Add the dry flour mixture in three portions, alternating with 1 ½ cups buttermilk in two portions. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the batter.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake rest in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting.
Notes
Nutrition Facts Of Vanilla crumb cake Recipe
Calories: 430 kcal | Carbohydrates: 60 g | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 18 g | Saturated Fat: 11 g | Sugar: 38 g | Fiber: 1 gHi! I’m Sophia, your trusted cake guide with years of hands-on baking experience. I’m passionate about creating delicious and wholesome cakes that bring happiness to every occasion and home. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker, I’m here to share tips, recipes, and inspiration to make your baking journey enjoyable and rewarding. From classic flavors to healthy twists, my goal is to help you discover the joy of baking and sharing beautiful cakes with family and friends.