Streuselkuchen (German Crumb Cake) Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of a cake that brings together the perfect harmony of a tender, fluffy base with a delightfully crunchy topping, then the Streuselkuchen (German Crumb Cake) is exactly what you need in your life. This classic German treat combines simple, wholesome ingredients to create something truly magical: a buttery crumb topping that melts in your mouth while the moist cake beneath provides the perfect balance. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy afternoon coffee or as a comforting dessert, Streuselkuchen is a true crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug in every bite.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Streuselkuchen lies in its straightforward and humble ingredients, each playing a vital role in crafting the perfect texture and flavor. From the soft cake base to the crispy crumbs on top, these essentials come together to deliver a cake that’s both simple and decadent.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of both the cake and streusel topping, providing structure and tenderness.
• ½ cup sugar: Sweetens the cake base just right, ensuring it complements the crumbly topping.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise to a soft, airy perfection.
• ½ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.
• 1 large egg: Binds the batter and adds richness and moisture.
• ½ cup milk: Keeps the cake tender and moist, crucial for the soft crumb.
• ¼ cup vegetable oil: Adds moisture without heaviness, making the crumb light and soft.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings a warm, inviting aroma that fills the kitchen.
• 1½ cups flour (for streusel): Combined with sugar and cinnamon to create the signature crumbly topping.
• ¾ cup sugar (for streusel): Sweetens the crunchy topping to contrast beautifully with the cake.
• 1 tsp cinnamon: Adds a subtle, cozy spice to the streusel, elevating the flavor.
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: The secret to those crisp, melt-in-your-mouth crumbs.

How to Make Streuselkuchen (German Crumb Cake)

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan. This step is essential to ensure your cake doesn’t stick, making for easy slicing and serving later on.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Base Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, stirring just until you have a smooth, uniform batter. The result? A luscious, moist dough that’s ready to become the perfect base for your crumb cake.

Step 3: Spread the Batter

Pour your cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. This even layer ensures your Streuselkuchen will bake uniformly, resulting in a tender crumb throughout.

Step 4: Make the Streusel Topping

In a new bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold, cubed butter pieces, and with your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the dry ingredients until it clumps into coarse crumbs. The key here is to keep the butter cold, as it helps to create a delightful contrast between crispy topping and soft cake.

Step 5: Sprinkle the Streusel Over the Batter

Generously scatter the crumbly streusel mixture evenly over the cake batter in the pan. Don’t be shy—this topping is what gives Streuselkuchen (German Crumb Cake) its magical texture and irresistible crunch.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Delicious

Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on it as the streusel deepens to a gorgeous golden brown. Your kitchen will fill with an inviting aroma that’s impossible to resist.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Once baked, let the cake cool completely in the pan before slicing. This resting time helps the crumb topping to set perfectly, making each piece as neat as it is delicious.

How to Serve Streuselkuchen (German Crumb Cake)

Garnishes

While Streuselkuchen is a star on its own, a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate touch of sweetness and makes it visually stunning. For a fresh twist, add a few berries like raspberries or blueberries on top to bring vibrant color and a burst of freshness.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a warm cup of tea. For an indulgent treat, serve alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream—simple additions that elevate your Streuselkuchen experience to new levels of deliciousness.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress at brunch or a special occasion? Cut your Streuselkuchen into mini squares and arrange them on a pretty platter with edible flowers or fresh mint leaves for a charming presentation. You can also serve individual slices with a drizzle of warm fruit compote or a side of custard for an extra cozy welcome to your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After you’ve enjoyed your cake, keep any leftovers covered tightly at room temperature for up to two days to maintain the crumb topping’s crunch. If your kitchen is warm, storing in an airtight container is recommended to avoid moisture softening the streusel.

Freezing

Streuselkuchen freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled cake slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When properly stored, the cake can last up to three months in the freezer without losing its flavor or texture.

Reheating

To bring your cake back to life, reheat slices gently in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 5 to 10 minutes. This warms the cake through and restores a bit of crispiness to the streusel topping. Avoid microwaving, which can make the crumb soggy.

FAQs

What is Streuselkuchen (German Crumb Cake)?

Streuselkuchen is a traditional German cake featuring a soft, airy cake base topped with a sweet, buttery crumb topping called streusel. It’s cherished across Germany as a comforting treat paired often with coffee or tea.

Can I use different types of flour for the cake or streusel?

All-purpose flour works best for the balance of texture and structure, but you can try whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. Keep in mind this may change the crumb slightly. For gluten-free needs, a blend designed for baking can work, though the texture might differ.

How do I keep the streusel topping from becoming soggy?

Using cold, cubed butter and mixing it quickly into the dry ingredients ensures crisp crumbs. Also, baking the cake fully and allowing it to cool completely before slicing helps maintain the streusel’s delightful crunch.

Can I add fruit to the Streuselkuchen?

Absolutely! Adding a layer of fresh fruits like apples, cherries, or plums between the cake batter and streusel takes this cake to another level. Just be sure to adjust baking time as needed to accommodate the moisture from the fruit.

What is the best way to serve leftover Streuselkuchen?

Leftovers taste fantastic warmed slightly in the oven, paired with a cup of coffee or tea. Adding fresh cream or a light fruit sauce can refresh the flavors and textures, making your second round just as delightful as the first.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Streuselkuchen (German Crumb Cake) that makes it feel like more than just a dessert — it’s a tradition, a cozy moment, and a way to bring people together around the table. With its straightforward ingredients and simple steps, this cake invites you to slow down, enjoy the process, and savor every delicious bite. Trust me, once you’ve made this classic, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes when you want something homey, sweet, and unforgettable.