If you’re craving a bakery-quality treat at home, this New York Style Crumb Cake Recipe is going to sweep you off your feet. Picture a tender, buttery cake base with a thick, crunchy crumb topping that’s wonderfully spiced with cinnamon and brown sugar. It’s the perfect balance of moist and crumbly that makes every bite unforgettable. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or as an indulgent snack with your morning coffee, this classic crumb cake brings that unmistakable New York charm right to your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a chunky mixture of cooked ground meat and spices. The mixture has a crumbly texture with bits of browned meat and small flecks of seasoning, showing colors of light and dark brown with hints of white from fat or seasoning. A silver spoon rests partially inside the bowl, mixing the meat. The scene is bright with natural light showing the details and texture of the meat mixture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This New York Style Crumb Cake Recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create that iconic texture and flavor. Each component plays a crucial role, from the creamy butter that gives moistness to the cake, to the brown sugar and cinnamon in the crumb topping, which add warmth and richness.

Light or dark brown sugar (1 cup): Adds moisture and a caramel-like depth to the crumb topping.
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup plus 1 cup): Balances sweetness and contributes to a tender crumb.
Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon): Brings a comforting spice that elevates the crumb.
Salt (1 teaspoon plus 1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
Unsalted butter (1 cup melted + 3/4 cup softened): Provides rich flavor and a moist, creamy texture.
All-purpose flour (5 cups total): Forms the sturdy yet soft base for both the cake and crumb topping.
Baking soda (1 teaspoon) and baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Help the cake rise perfectly.
Eggs (3 large): Bind everything together while adding richness.
Full-fat sour cream (1 cup): Keeps the cake unbelievably moist and tender.
Pure vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Infuses the batter with a lovely, classic flavor.
Optional: Confectioners’ sugar: For a delicate dusting finish before serving.

How to Make New York Style Crumb Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step is key because it ensures your cake bakes evenly and releases effortlessly once done. Whether you use glass, ceramic, or metal, keep in mind metal pans may bake slightly faster, so keep an eye on your cake as it cooks.

Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

Mix together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl. Pour in the melted butter and give it a gentle stir. Next, add the flour but be careful — mix just enough with a fork to keep large crumbs intact. Over-mixing can turn this topping into a paste, and we definitely want those big, crunch-worthy crumbs. Set it aside for now; this crumb topping is what makes this cake truly special.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients for the Cake

Combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Whisking these together ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed, which gives your cake the perfect rise and fluffy texture.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar, Then Add Wet Ingredients

Using a mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy—about 2 minutes. Scrape the bowl often to keep everything well incorporated. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the sour cream and vanilla extract. Don’t worry if the mixture looks a bit curdled; that’s totally normal at this stage.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

With the mixer on low speed, add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix just until smooth. Resist the urge to over-mix here; you want the batter thick and creamy but not tough. This careful folding keeps your cake tender and moist.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Then, pile the crumb topping over the batter. Using a spatula or the back of a large spoon, press the crumbs down firmly into the cake so they adhere well. This step guarantees that wonderfully thick, crunchy topping everyone looks forward to in a New York style crumb cake.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 45-55 minutes, starting to check at the 45-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center—the cake is ready when it comes out clean. If the crumb topping or edges start to brown too quickly, simply cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning. Once baked, place the pan on a wire rack and let it cool for at least 30-45 minutes before slicing.

How to Serve New York Style Crumb Cake Recipe

The image shows a rectangular tray lined with brown parchment paper, holding a large batch of crumb-topped bars. The batch is cut into square pieces, with several squares separated from the main block and turned to show a soft, golden-yellow cake layer beneath a thick, crumbly, light brown topping dusted with white powdered sugar. The crumb topping has a rough texture with small chunks, and the scattered sugar on top adds a delicate, snowy look. The tray sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A light dusting of confectioners’ sugar over the cooled cake adds a beautiful, classic finish and a subtle sweetness that complements the cinnamon-spiced crumbs perfectly. Use a sieve or fine mesh strainer for an even sprinkle.

Side Dishes

This crumb cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it a delightful treat for breakfast or afternoon snack. For a more decadent touch, serve it alongside fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the cake into squares and serve on decorative plates for a casual gathering, or use cookie cutters to shape smaller pieces for a playful presentation at brunch. For special occasions, try layering slices with mascarpone and fruit for a quick, no-bake dessert trifle inspired by the flavors of your crumb cake.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover crumb cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and moist for 2 to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy its buttery goodness beyond the first serving.

Freezing

If you want to keep your crumb cake for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cake securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing its silky texture or crumb topping crunch.

Reheating

Thaw frozen crumb cake overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature. Warm individual slices gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds or place the cake in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes to revive those baked-in flavors and textures.

FAQs

Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar for the crumb topping?

Absolutely! Light brown sugar works just fine and will give a slightly milder molasses flavor, but your crumb topping will still be deliciously rich and moist.

Is it okay to substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream in this recipe?

Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute and will maintain the moisture and tanginess in the cake, just use the same amount as the sour cream called for in the recipe.

How do I know when the crumb cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is done. The crumb topping should be golden and firmly set to the touch.

Can I make this crumb cake in a round pan instead of a rectangular one?

Sure thing! Just be mindful that baking times might vary slightly, so start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier. A 9-inch round pan is a good alternative.

What’s the best way to prevent the crumb topping from burning?

If you notice the crumb topping browning too quickly in the oven, loosely tent the cake with foil midway through the baking process to shield it while the cake finishes baking thoroughly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a slice of homemade crumb cake, and this New York Style Crumb Cake Recipe captures that essence perfectly. It’s a recipe you’ll want to keep close and share often, whether for lazy Sunday mornings, special occasions, or just because life is sweeter with crumb cake. Give it a try and experience the warm, buttery delight that only this classic cake can bring to your table.