Strawberry Crumb Cake: A Sweet Slice of Summer

Recipes Italian Chef

Strawberry Crumb Cake: A Sweet Slice of Summer

Nothing says summer quite like the sweet, juicy flavor of fresh strawberries. And what better way to celebrate this seasonal delight than with a scrumptious Strawberry Crumb Cake? This recipe combines the moist, tender texture of a classic cake with a buttery, crumbly topping and bursts of strawberry goodness in every bite. It’s perfect for brunch, afternoon tea, or a simple dessert to brighten any day. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and yields a cake that’s sure to impress.

## Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Crumb Cake

* **Delicious Flavor:** The combination of sweet strawberries, buttery crumb topping, and moist cake creates a symphony of flavors that’s simply irresistible.
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
* **Perfect for Any Occasion:** Whether you’re hosting a brunch, attending a potluck, or just craving a sweet treat, this cake is a crowd-pleaser.
* **Versatile:** You can easily adapt this recipe to use other berries or fruits, depending on what’s in season.
* **Beautiful Presentation:** The vibrant red strawberries and golden crumb topping make this cake a visually stunning dessert.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather all the necessary ingredients. This will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

### For the Crumb Topping:

* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes

### For the Cake:

* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
* 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

## Equipment You’ll Need

* 9×13 inch baking pan
* Mixing bowls
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
* Pastry blender or fork (for the crumb topping)
* Rubber spatula
* Parchment paper (optional, for lining the pan)

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get baking! Follow these detailed instructions to create your own delicious Strawberry Crumb Cake.

### Step 1: Prepare the Crumb Topping

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter to the bowl.
3. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crumbly texture. The butter should be evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
4. Place the crumb topping in the refrigerator while you prepare the cake batter. This will help the butter stay cold and prevent the topping from melting too quickly in the oven.

### Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. Alternatively, you can line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the cake after baking. This is especially helpful if you plan to slice and serve the cake directly from the pan.
2. In a separate medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. The mixture should become pale and airy as the sugar granules incorporate into the butter.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream or yogurt. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough cake. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to a denser texture.

### Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Cake

1. Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
2. Arrange the sliced strawberries over the top of the batter. Gently press the strawberries into the batter to ensure they are evenly distributed and will bake properly.
3. Remove the crumb topping from the refrigerator and sprinkle it evenly over the strawberries.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top and the crumb topping should be nicely browned.

### Step 4: Cool and Serve

1. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the cake to set properly and prevents it from crumbling when you cut into it.
2. If you lined the pan with parchment paper, you can lift the cake out of the pan using the overhang. This makes it easier to transfer the cake to a serving platter.
3. Serve the Strawberry Crumb Cake warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

## Tips for Success

* **Use Cold Butter:** For the crumb topping, using cold butter is essential for achieving that crumbly texture. The cold butter creates pockets of air that expand during baking, resulting in a light and flaky topping.
* **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** Overmixing the cake batter can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined to ensure a tender and moist texture.
* **Fresh Strawberries are Best:** While you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch, fresh strawberries will provide the best flavor and texture.
* **Adjust Baking Time:** Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Keep an eye on the cake and adjust the baking time as needed.
* **Let it Cool:** Allowing the cake to cool properly before slicing prevents it from crumbling and ensures it holds its shape.
* **Add Lemon Zest:** A teaspoon of lemon zest in the cake batter brightens the flavors and complements the strawberries perfectly.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Other Berries:** Substitute blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for the strawberries.
* **Stone Fruits:** Use sliced peaches, plums, or nectarines for a different flavor profile.
* **Nuts:** Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the crumb topping for added crunch.
* **Spices:** Experiment with different spices in the crumb topping, such as nutmeg or cardamom.
* **Gluten-Free:** Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.
* **Dairy-Free:** Substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and use a dairy-free yogurt or sour cream.

## Serving Suggestions

* **Brunch:** Serve the Strawberry Crumb Cake as part of a brunch spread, alongside other breakfast favorites like eggs, bacon, and fruit salad.
* **Afternoon Tea:** Enjoy a slice of cake with a cup of tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
* **Dessert:** Serve the cake as a simple dessert after a meal. It pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
* **Potluck:** Bring the cake to a potluck or gathering. It’s sure to be a hit with everyone.
* **Special Occasions:** This cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion.

## Storage Instructions

* **Room Temperature:** Store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
* **Refrigerator:** For longer storage, store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
* **Freezer:** You can also freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?**
A: Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using them. This will prevent the cake from becoming soggy.

**Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?**
A: Yes, you can make the cake a day ahead of time. Store it at room temperature or in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

**Q: Can I freeze the crumb topping?**
A: Yes, you can freeze the crumb topping. Store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month. Use it directly from the freezer without thawing.

**Q: My crumb topping is melting too quickly in the oven. What should I do?**
A: If your crumb topping is melting too quickly, try placing the cake in the freezer for 15-20 minutes before baking. This will help to firm up the butter in the topping.

**Q: My cake is browning too quickly. What should I do?**
A: If your cake is browning too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. This will prevent the top from burning while the inside continues to bake.

## Conclusion

This Strawberry Crumb Cake is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist cake, sweet strawberries, and buttery crumb topping, it’s a dessert that’s sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a slice of summer! Enjoy!

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