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Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Recipe

ByMadison
Jump to Recipe· 4.6 from 20 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, timeless dessert that feels just like a warm hug, you’ve got to try this Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Recipe. It’s one of those recipes I keep coming back to, especially when apples are in season and the craving for something homey kicks in. The tender cake, tart Granny Smith apples, and that buttery streusel topping? Pure magic. Plus, there’s a luscious custard sauce that just ties it all together, making every bite irresistible. Stick around — I’ll walk you through every step so your Irish Apple Cake turns out absolutely perfect.

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Balanced Flavors: Tart Granny Smith apples cut through the sweet, buttery cake for perfect harmony.
  • Textural Delight: The crunchy, oat-studded streusel topping adds a lovely contrast to the soft cake.
  • Custard Sauce Magic: This simple vanilla custard brings the whole dessert together for an extra touch of indulgence.
  • Easy Yet Impressive: Despite its layers and textures, the recipe is straightforward enough for home cooks of all levels.
Irish Apple Cake with Streusel, Irish Apple Cake, Apple Cake with Streusel, Irish dessert recipes, homemade apple cake - The image shows a round crumb cake with a thick, golden brown base layer and a light beige crumbly topping that is rough in texture and unevenly spread. The cake is placed on a metal cooling rack on a white marbled surface. Behind the cake, there are two green apples and a small clear glass jar filled with a creamy yellow sauce with a spoon inside. To the right of the cake, there is a silver knife with a wooden handle and a silver fork resting on a light beige cloth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

This Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Recipe uses straightforward ingredients, but each plays a key role to create that classic flavor and texture. The combination of all-purpose flour, cinnamon, and baking powder gives body and a gentle spice, while the Granny Smith apples bring that beloved tartness and moisture. And the streusel? It’s the crunchy perfection that keeps you coming back for more.

Irish Apple Cake with Streusel, Irish Apple Cake, Apple Cake with Streusel, Irish dessert recipes, homemade apple cake - Flat lay of unsalted butter at room temperature in a small slice, granulated sugar in a neat pile, two whole brown eggs with clean shells, a small white ceramic bowl of whole milk, all purpose flour in a small mound, a small white bowl with baking powder powder, a small white bowl of ground cinnamon, a small pinch of salt in a white bowl, three fresh Granny Smith apples peeled and thinly sliced with bright green skin edges visible, old fashioned rolled oats in a small white bowl, cold unsalted butter cut into small cubes, confectioner’s sugar dusted lightly in a small white bowl, six fresh large egg yolks in a small white bowl separated from whites, pure vanilla liquid in a small white bowl, all ingredients arranged symmetrically and proportionally on a clean white ceramic surface, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter lets you control salt levels, and softened butter is easier to cream for a better cake texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake just right without overpowering the natural apple flavor.
  • Large Eggs: They bind the cake ingredients and lend moisture and richness.
  • Whole Milk or Cream: Adds moisture and helps tenderize the cake for that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
  • All-Purpose Flour: The sturdy base that works great for this kind of cake.
  • Baking Powder: Provides lift, ensuring your cake rises nicely.
  • Cinnamon: The warm spice that beautifully complements the apples.
  • Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
  • Granny Smith Apples: Their tartness and firm texture make them perfect for baking, holding shape and balancing sweet.
  • Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: In the streusel, they add rustic texture and a pleasant chew.
  • Confectioner’s Sugar: For a light dusting finish that adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
  • Vanilla: Makes the custard sauce deeply aromatic and comforting.
  • Egg Yolks and Sugar (for Custard): Create a rich, creamy sauce that’s the perfect companion to the cake.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love how this Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Recipe invites customization — whether you want to pump up the spice, swap in a different apple, or make it a little lighter. A little tweak here and there goes a long way, and it’s fun to make it your own.

  • Add Nutmeg or Cloves: I sometimes add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the cinnamon in both the cake and streusel for a deeper warm spice profile.
  • Use Different Apples: While Granny Smith is my favorite for its tartness, I’ve used Honeycrisp or Braeburn when I want a milder sweetness.
  • Swap Oats in Streusel: For a gluten-free twist, replace oats and flour with finely chopped nuts — walnuts or pecans work wonderfully.
  • Extra Crunch: Sprinkle some chopped almonds on top before baking for an extra nutty surprise.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Recipe

Step 1: Make the Custard Sauce First

I always start by making the custard — it takes some attention but is totally worth it. Heat the milk until just simmering, then whisk egg yolks and sugar. Slowly temper the eggs with hot milk before returning it all to the pan. Cook gently and stir constantly using a silicone spatula so it thickens velvety smooth without curdling. Pour through a sieve to get rid of any lumps, press plastic wrap on the surface, and chill in the fridge. This custard sauce becomes a creamy, dreamy accompaniment you’ll want on hand as your cake bakes.

Step 2: Prepare the Streusel Topping

While the custard cools, mix your streusel ingredients. Cut cold butter into a blend of flour, sugar, and oats until you get a coarse, crumbly texture. Pop it back into the fridge to keep the butter cold while you make the cake batter. Keeping the butter cold is the secret to that perfect crumbly topping that crisps up beautifully in the oven.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cake Batter

Next, cream your softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy — this is where a hand or stand mixer can really help. Beat in eggs one at a time to keep it smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Then, gently fold the dry ingredients and milk or cream into the butter mixture. Don’t overmix here; fold just until everything comes together for a tender crumb.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared 9-inch springform pan and smooth it out evenly. Then, layer your thinly sliced Granny Smith apples right over the top — no need to be perfect, just try for an even spread. Sprinkle the chilled streusel on top. Bake the cake at 350°F for about 50 minutes to an hour, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean with no wet batter. I always keep an eye on the last 10 minutes to make sure the streusel doesn’t burn.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once out of the oven, let your cake cool partially in the pan before removing the springform ring. I like to dust it lightly with confectioner’s sugar for that pretty final touch. Serve slices warm or at room temperature, ideally with a generous pour of the chilled custard sauce — it transforms this simple cake into a real crowd-pleaser.

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Pro Tips for Making Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Recipe

  • Keep Butter Cold for Streusel: Cold butter ensures a crumbly, crisp topping — don’t be tempted to soften it.
  • Temper Eggs Slowly in Custard: Adding hot milk slowly while whisking prevents scrambled eggs in your custard.
  • Use a Springform Pan: It’s far easier to remove the cake without breaking, especially with the tender crumb and streusel layer.
  • Don’t Overcook Custard: The custard will thicken as it cools; remove it from heat once it coats the back of the spoon.

How to Serve Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Recipe

Irish Apple Cake with Streusel, Irish Apple Cake, Apple Cake with Streusel, Irish dessert recipes, homemade apple cake - A slice of crumb cake with three clear layers sits on a white plate with blue floral patterns: the bottom layer is a light golden-brown cake base, the middle layer is a thin, soft filling, and the top layer is a crumbly, golden topping. A pale yellow creamy sauce is thickly poured over the crumb topping, slightly dripping down the sides and pooling on the plate. A silver fork rests on the left side of the plate, on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I usually keep garnishes simple — a light dusting of confectioner’s sugar is classic and adds a delicate sweetness without overwhelming the cake. Sometimes, when I want to dress it up for company, I add a sprig of fresh mint or a few thin apple slices fanned on top for a pretty, rustic look.

Side Dishes

This Irish Apple Cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a dessert that’s simple but feels special. If you’re making an afternoon teatime spread, serve it alongside a pot of strong black tea or a mild coffee to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve baked this cake in individual ramekins or mini springform pans to serve single portions — guests always appreciate the personal touch. You can also drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice for an extra indulgence that makes it feel even more festive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Irish Apple Cake has cooled, I like to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It keeps well at room temperature for a day, but I prefer refrigeration if it will last longer than that — the custard sauce especially tastes best chilled.

Freezing

I’ve frozen the cake successfully by wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap and then foil. When thawed overnight in the fridge, it retains its moist crumb and streusel crunch surprisingly well. The custard sauce freezes less effectively, so I recommend making that fresh when ready to serve.

Reheating

To warm leftovers, I pop slices in a preheated 325°F oven for about 10–15 minutes to bring back the freshness and keep the streusel crisp. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture. Pair it again with cold custard sauce for the full experience.

FAQs

  1. Can I use other types of apples in this Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Recipe?

    Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are ideal because of their tartness and firmness, you can substitute apples like Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or even Fuji depending on your taste preference. Just remember that sweeter apples will make the cake less tart.

  2. Is it necessary to make the custard sauce?

    The custard sauce is traditional and adds a lovely creamy contrast to the cake, but you can absolutely enjoy the Irish Apple Cake without it. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream as alternatives if you want a simpler accompaniment.

  3. Can I make the streusel topping ahead of time?

    Yes! I often prepare the streusel topping in advance and keep it chilled in the fridge until ready to use. Keeping the butter cold is key for the best texture, so don’t make it too far ahead if your fridge isn’t cool enough.

  4. What’s the best way to store leftover cake?

    Store leftover cake tightly covered at room temperature for up to a day or in the fridge for longer storage. Wrap well to keep moisture in, and reheat gently to preserve texture if you want it warm.

Final Thoughts

This Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Recipe is a real comfort classic that’s close to my heart. It’s one of those desserts that bring people together over stories and laughter — easy enough for a weeknight treat, and beautiful enough for sharing with guests. I hope you enjoy baking and eating it as much as I do. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your dessert rotation and a new favorite for apple season. So, grab some apples, warm up your oven, and let’s make magic happen in your kitchen!

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Irish Apple Cake with Streusel Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 20 reviews
  • Author: Madison
  • Prep Time: 35 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Irish
Print Recipe

Description

This classic Irish Apple Cake is a delightful dessert featuring a tender spiced cake layered with tart Granny Smith apples and topped with a buttery oat streusel. Served with a smooth, homemade vanilla custard sauce, it’s a comforting treat perfect for any season.

Ingredients

Cake

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 Tbsp whole milk or cream
  • 1 1/4 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/8 tsp salt
  • about 3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1 lb after slicing)
  • confectioner’s sugar for dusting

Streusel Topping

  • 3/4 cup all purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup old fashioned rolled oats
  • 6 Tbsp unsalted cold butter, cut in small pieces
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Custard Sauce

  • 6 large egg yolks
  • 6 Tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk (can substitute half and half or cream)
  • 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350F and grease a 9-inch springform pan to ensure the cake can be easily removed after baking.
  2. Make Custard Sauce: Heat the milk over medium heat until it simmers. Meanwhile, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until well combined. Gradually drizzle hot milk into the egg mixture while continuously whisking to temper the eggs. Pour the mixture back into the pan with the remaining hot milk. Cook over medium heat stirring constantly until the custard thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Avoid overcooking to prevent curdling. Stir in vanilla. Strain through a sieve into a heatproof container, cover surface with plastic wrap to prevent skin formation and refrigerate until fully chilled.
  3. Prepare Streusel Topping: Cut cold butter into small pieces and blend it into the flour, sugar, and oats until you have a coarse, crumbly mixture. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to use.
  4. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a bowl, cream together the room temperature butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  5. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next.
  6. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
  7. Combine Batter: Fold the dry ingredients into the creamed butter and sugar mixture along with the milk or cream, mixing until just combined.
  8. Assemble Cake: Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface evenly. Layer the sliced apples on top evenly. Sprinkle the chilled streusel topping over the apples.
  9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes or until the top is lightly browned and a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean with no wet batter.
  10. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan before removing the springform. Dust the top with confectioner’s sugar. Serve slices with chilled custard sauce on the side.

Notes

  • The custard sauce can be made a day ahead and refrigerated to save time.
  • Use Granny Smith apples for tartness; if unavailable, other firm tart apples can be substituted.
  • Ensure butter for streusel topping is very cold for best crumbly texture.
  • Do not overcook the custard sauce to avoid curdling; it should remain smooth and velvety.
  • For a richer cake, substitute cream for milk in the batter and custard.
  • Use a silicone spatula or wooden spoon when cooking custard to avoid scratching the pan.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 30 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg

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