Wake up to a burst of sunshine with this delightful Lemon Crumble Breakfast Cake. Indeed, this treat blends a moist, lemony cake with a buttery, crunchy crumble topping, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack. Consequently, you’ll love its zesty flavor and how easy it is to whip up. In fact, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser, and you’re about to discover why it’s a must-try for your kitchen.
Lemon Crumble Breakfast Cake Recipe
First, let’s dive into the recipe to satisfy your craving for this tangy delight. Moreover, this step-by-step guide ensures you nail it on your first try. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s get baking!
Ingredients
Before you start, gather everything listed below. Additionally, the table separates the cake and crumble topping components for clarity. For instance, you can swap buttermilk with a simple homemade version if needed.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes/Substitutions |
| All-purpose flour | 1 ½ cups (cake) | Spoon and level method |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup (cake) | |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup (cake) | Softened |
| Eggs | 2 large | Room temperature |
| Lemon zest | 2 tbsp | Use organic lemons for best flavor |
| Lemon juice | ¼ cup | Freshly squeezed |
| Buttermilk | ½ cup | Substitute: milk + 1 tsp vinegar |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp | Aluminum-free recommended |
| Salt | ¼ tsp | |
| Crumble Topping | ||
| All-purpose flour | ¾ cup | |
| Granulated sugar | ⅓ cup | |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tbsp | Melted or cold, depending on recipe |
| Lemon zest | 1 tbsp |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, follow these steps to create your lemon coffee cake. Each step is straightforward, ensuring you get that perfect texture and flavor. So, let’s roll up our sleeves!
- Preheat your oven to 325°F and grease a 9-inch springform pan. Line it with parchment paper for easy removal. For the best results, check out Choosing the Best Springform Pan.
- Prepare the crumble topping: In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, lemon zest, and melted butter. Mix with a fork until crumbly, then set aside.
- Mix dry ingredients: Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat butter, sugar, and lemon zest until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add wet ingredients: Beat in eggs one at a time, then add lemon juice and buttermilk. Mix gently to avoid curdling.
- Combine: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing until just combined.
- Assemble: Pour batter into the pan, smooth the top, and sprinkle crumble topping evenly, leaving some larger chunks for texture.
- Bake: Bake for 40-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Cool for 30 minutes, dust with powdered sugar, and serve.
Tip: Always use fresh lemons for the best flavor. In fact, Perfect Lemon Zesting Techniques can help you get it right.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Crumble Breakfast Cake
The Appeal of Lemon Crumble Breakfast Cake
Why is this lemon crumb cake so irresistible? For starters, its moist texture and tangy lemon kick make every bite a delight. Furthermore, the crunchy crumble topping adds a buttery contrast that’s hard to resist. As Amanda, a recipe commenter, raves, “This cake is a game-changer! The lemony zing and buttery crumble make every bite heavenly.”
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch or a family gathering, this cake fits right in. In addition, it pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee or tea, creating a cozy vibe. Best of all, its portability makes it a hit for potlucks or quick breakfasts on the go. Don’t overmix the batter, though, to keep it light and fluffy.
T>
Choosing the Best Ingredients of Lemon Crumble Breakfast Cake
Great ingredients make all the difference in this moist lemon cake. For instance, pick bright, heavy lemons for maximum juiciness and use organic ones for zest to avoid pesticides. Also, ensure your butter is at room temperature for the cake and cold or melted for the streusel topping, depending on your recipe. If you’re out of buttermilk, mix milk with a teaspoon of vinegar for a quick substitute.
Common Baking Mistakes to Avoid
Even seasoned bakers can slip up, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are common pitfalls and how to dodge them:
- Dense cake: Overmixing the batter can make it heavy, so stir until just combined.
- Soggy crumble: Use cold butter and chill the crumble before adding to keep it crisp.
- Bitter flavor: Avoid the white pith when zesting to prevent a bitter taste.
- Uneven baking: Stick to a 9-inch springform pan for consistent results.
By avoiding these, you’ll bake a cake that’s light, flavorful, and perfectly golden.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Want to enjoy this breakfast cake recipe later? Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Alternatively, refrigerate it for 5 days, but let it sit out before serving to restore its texture. For longer storage, wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Pro tip: Prepare the crumble topping ahead and freeze it for quick assembly.
Variations and Customizations
Flavor Variations
Feeling adventurous? Try these twists to make this citrus cake your own. For example, swap lemon zest for orange or lime for a fresh spin. Or, fold in blueberries or raspberries for a fruity burst. If you’re a lemon lover, spread a layer of lemon curd under the crumble for extra tang.
Dietary Adaptations
No matter your dietary needs, you can enjoy this cake. For a gluten-free lemon cake, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, like the ones discussed in Gluten-Free Baking Tips. For dairy-free, swap butter with coconut oil and buttermilk with almond milk plus vinegar. To cut sugar, reduce it by 25% or use a substitute like Splenda.
Nutritional Information and Serving Suggestions
Nutritional Breakdown
Curious about the stats? Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per slice, based on 12 servings. Keep in mind, values vary depending on your ingredients.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 340 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 41 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10 g |
| Sugar | 23 g |
| Sodium | 204 mg |
Serving Suggestions Lemon Crumble Breakfast Cake
Elevate your lemon dessert with these serving ideas. For breakfast, pair it with yogurt or fresh fruit for a balanced meal. As a dessert, serve it warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. For a fancy touch, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a lemon glaze.
The History and Popularity of Crumb Cakes
Origins of Crumb Cakes
Crumb cakes have a rich history, starting with German Streuselkuchen. Over time, they evolved into the beloved New York-style versions we know today. Interestingly, lemon crumb cakes gained traction for their bright, tangy flavor, making them a modern favorite.
Why Lemon Crumble Breakfast Cake Stands Out
What makes this zesty breakfast cake special? The lemon’s tart-sweet balance is a winner in baking, and social media has boosted its fame. As food blogger Christina says, “Lemon desserts are my go-to for spring brunches. This cake is a showstopper!” Its vibrant flavor and stunning look make it a standout.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lemon Crumble Breakfast Cake
Got questions about your Lemon Crumble Breakfast Cake? Here are answers to common queries to ensure your baking success.
- Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh? Fresh lemon juice is best for a vibrant flavor. Bottled juice can taste artificial and may dull the cake’s zing.
- Why did my crumble topping sink into the batter? A thin batter or warm crumble could be the culprit. Chill the crumble for 10 minutes before adding.
- Can I make this cake gluten-free? Absolutely, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Measure carefully to avoid a dense texture.
- How do I store Lemon Crumble Breakfast Cake? Keep it at room temperature for 2 days, refrigerate for 5 days, or freeze for 3 months.
- Can I add lemon curd to this recipe? Yes, spread a thin layer of lemon curd over the batter before adding the crumble for extra tang.
Conclusion
Final Thoughts
In summary, this Lemon Crumble Breakfast Cake is a breeze to make and a joy to eat. Its versatility, from breakfast to dessert, makes it a staple for any occasion. So, give it a try, experiment with variations, and make it your own. Your kitchen will be filled with the aroma of lemons and love.
Call to Action
Ready to bake? Share your experience in the comments below. Also, pin this recipe on Pinterest or post it on Instagram to spread the joy. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more family-friendly recipes!