Apple Crumb Loaf
A moist apple crumb loaf featuring tender tart apples and a cinnamon-scented crumb topping, perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon tea with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Quarter, core, and peel the apples, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Spread the apples evenly on a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until apples are tender but not mushy.
- Remove from oven and let cool.
- In a bowl, beat 1/2 cup margarine until creamy; add 1/2 cup sugar and beat well.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Blend in sour cream.
- Sift together 2 cups flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and 2 teaspoons cinnamon.
- Fold the sifted dry ingredients into the margarine mixture.
- Gently fold in the baked apples.
- Pour half of the batter into a greased, wax paper-lined 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan.
- Cut remaining margarine into remaining flour, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until crumbly.
- Sprinkle half of the crumb mixture over the batter.
- Pour in the remaining batter.
- Sprinkle with the remaining crumb mixture.
- Bake at 350°F for 50 to 60 minutes until browned and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan on a rack for 10 minutes, then carefully remove from the pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If tart apples aren't available, Granny Smith apples work well as a substitute. To enhance the crumb topping, you can add oats or chopped nuts for extra texture. Be careful not to overmix the batter after adding the flour, as it can make the loaf dense. This Apple Crumb Loaf is a delightful companion to a cup of tea or coffee.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of the Apple Crumb Loaf warm or at room temperature, optionally drizzled with caramel sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added sweetness. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This loaf also makes a wonderful breakfast option when paired with yogurt or as a snack alongside a steaming cup of coffee.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or gently reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple Crumb Loaf contains roughly 565 calories, with 9g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (33% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 870mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other apple varieties with a tart flavor, such as Honeycrisp or Fuji apples. Just ensure they hold their shape during baking for the best texture in the loaf.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of this Apple Crumb Loaf, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the baking powder and baking soda are also certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Is there a way to make this loaf less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet loaf, you can reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup and add a bit of lemon juice for brightness. Alternatively, you can use unsweetened applesauce to replace some of the sugar while keeping the moisture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).