Apricot Crumble Cake: A Delightful Treat for Any Occasion

Introduction

Apricot crumble cake is a delectable dessert that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of apricots with a buttery, crumbly topping. It's a versatile treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day, whether for breakfast, brunch, or tea time.

Ingredients:

* For the cake batter:
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
* For the apricot filling:
* 1 pound fresh apricots, pitted and sliced
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch
* For the crumb topping:
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Spread the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
7. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced apricots, granulated sugar, and cornstarch.
8. Spread the apricot filling over the cake batter.
9. In a small bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
10. Cut in the cold butter cubes until coarse crumbs form.
11. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the apricot filling.
12. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
13. Let the cake cool slightly before serving.

Tips:

* For a tangier flavor, use sour cream or yogurt instead of milk in the cake batter.
* Add a handful of chopped nuts or dried fruit to the crumb topping for extra flavor.
* Serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a decadent dessert.

Conclusion

Apricot crumble cake is an irresistible treat that combines the sweetness of ripe apricots with the buttery crunch of a crumble topping. It's perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or tea time, this delightful cake is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.