Vanilla Nut Crumble Cake

Name: Vanilla Nut Crumble Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup all-purpose flour; ½ cup brown sugar; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup mixed nuts, chopped; 1 tsp cinnamon

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love baking, especially when it comes to creating something that combines rich flavors with a delightful crunch. This Vanilla Nut Crumble Cake is my go-to recipe for any occasion. The fragrant blend of vanilla and toasted nuts creates a comforting aroma in my kitchen. Whether it's a cozy family gathering or a simple afternoon treat with tea, this cake never fails to impress. Plus, the crumble topping adds a delightful texture that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-09T17:09:27.413Z

When I first experimented with creating this Vanilla Nut Crumble Cake, I wanted to capture the essence of a classic vanilla cake but with a modern twist. The result was a heavenly blend of flavors and textures that put a smile on everyone’s face. The key is in the toasting of the nuts; it intensifies their flavor and adds a marvelous crunch that perfectly complements the moist cake.

As I’ve made this cake over the years, I’ve learned that letting the cake cool slightly in the pan before transferring it helps retain its shape. Also, using high-quality vanilla extract makes all the difference in flavor. I love sharing this cake at gatherings, and every time, people rave about the rich taste and delightful crunch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich vanilla flavor with a nutty crunch
Moist texture that complements the crumb topping
Perfect for dessert or an afternoon snack

Why This Cake is Special

The combination of rich vanilla and the crunch of mixed nuts makes this cake a standout dessert. While many cakes may rely solely on a sweetness factor, the inclusion of nuts not only provides an interesting texture but also enriches the flavor profile. Toasting the nuts before adding them enhances their natural oils, which can make a significant difference in the cake's overall taste. You can choose your favorite nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to customize the flavor to your liking.

Another aspect that sets this Vanilla Nut Crumble Cake apart is its moist texture. The balance of butter, milk, and eggs ensures that each slice remains tender, while the crumble topping adds a delightful contrast. It's key to not overmix the batter when adding the flour, as this can lead to a denser cake. Aim for a smooth, slightly lumpy batter to maintain that wonderful lightness.

Storage and Serving Tips

To keep your Vanilla Nut Crumble Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for about a week. For longer storage, you can freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to three months. Just be sure to let the cake thaw at room temperature before enjoying it again; this will help maintain its texture.

This cake pairs beautifully with beverages like tea or coffee, making it perfect for afternoon snacking. If you want to elevate the experience, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a twist, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top just before serving to add an extra layer of richness.

Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking to customize this cake or accommodate dietary restrictions, there are several substitutions you can make. For a gluten-free version, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour, ensuring you still get that fluffy texture. For a dairy-free option, substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter and use almond or oat milk in place of regular milk.

You can also play around with flavors to make this cake your own. Try adding citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, to the batter for a refreshing hint, or swap out the nuts for seeds like sunflower or pumpkin if nut allergies are a concern. Additionally, chocolate lovers can mix in chocolate chips or cocoa powder to create a rich, chocolaty variation.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious Vanilla Nut Crumble Cake:

For the Cake:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 cup milk
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt

For the Crumble Topping:

½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup mixed nuts, chopped
1 tsp cinnamon

Make sure to prepare your ingredients in advance for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a scrumptious Vanilla Nut Crumble Cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl, then add to the creamed mixture alternately with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture.

Make the Crumble Topping

In another bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, melted butter, chopped nuts, and cinnamon until crumbly. Set aside.

Combine and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the batter. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Vanilla Nut Crumble Cake with a cup of tea or coffee!

Once cooled, you can dust the cake with powdered sugar for an extra touch!

Pro Tips

For a nut-free version, you can substitute the chopped nuts with oats for a delicious crumble texture without any allergens.

Expert Baking Tips

When preparing the crumble topping, it's important to mix it just until it becomes crumbly. If you over-mix, it can turn into a paste, losing the desired texture. You want to be able to see chunks of nut and flour throughout the mix. If your topping seems too dry, consider adding a small splash of melted butter to achieve that crumbly consistency.

For even baking, make sure your oven is properly preheated before you put the cake inside. An oven thermometer can ensure that your oven is at the right temperature, as an inaccurate thermostat can lead to uneven baking, resulting in a cake that's either too dry or undercooked. Keep an eye on the cake during the last few minutes of baking, looking for that golden edge and a toothpick inserted in the center that comes out clean.

Flavor Enhancements

The flavors of this Vanilla Nut Crumble Cake can be enhanced with spices. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon can create a lovely warmth and depth in flavor. Just a small amount can make a big difference in the taste, making it feel more indulgent and complex.

Consider infusing the milk with a vanilla bean or steeping it with spices like cardamom or star anise before adding it to the batter. This little twist adds an aromatic quality that will surprise and delight your guests, elevating the simple flavors of vanilla and nuts.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts in the crumble?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite nuts, such as almonds or pecans.

→ How can I store leftover cake?

Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

It pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat!