Apple Crumble
- Easy
- 50 min
- Kcal 442
If you're hunting for a dessert with roots in Lombardy, this apple crumble cake called la sbriciolata is something you really, really need to try. It is a tasty mix of tender apples, crunchy walnuts, and sweet, slightly moist amaretti crumbs. Originating from Northern Italy, this twist on the classic sbrisolona cake includes a cozy apple filling paired with nutty crunch and a hint of zesty lemon. Every bite offers a bit of crispy crumb topping. So good. The walnuts add a rustic charm, making this apple crumb cake both comforting and special. Imagine enjoying a dessert that feels like it’s straight from a little bakery in Lombardy—where traditions are cherished and ingredients are always fresh and real.
In many Lombard homes, this cake is a staple. For sure. Perfect for countless occasions—after Sunday lunch, as a quick snack with coffee, or whenever you crave something homemade yet a bit fancy. The apple streusel cake combines old and new elements with amaretti cookies, adding an almond flavor that elevates the entire dish. And unlike some other apple desserts, this isn't overloaded with sugar. Really balanced. You can really savor the apples and nuts. People often say it’s one of the best fall baking recipes because the aroma alone draws everyone to the kitchen.
A slice of this golden cake is perfect when you want a dessert that's unfussy yet always a hit. I mean, seriously good. Whether you call it a homemade apple crumb cake or simply your favorite apple dessert, it’s a treat that brings folks together, making even an ordinary afternoon feel a bit more special. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and promises to impress at any gathering, capturing the core of Lombardy’s love for genuine and flavorful baking.
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To prepare the apple crumble cake, start with the dough. In a bowl, place the butter together with the sugar 1. Soften it with a wooden spoon until creamy 2. Add the egg 3 and mix until well absorbed.
Incorporate the all-purpose flour, previously sifted 4, and the baking powder, also sifted 5. Mix with your fingertips 6 until you get a crumbly mixture.
At this point, add the walnuts 7 and give a quick mix 8, until the ingredients are combined 9. Set aside in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Prepare the apple and amaretti filling. Peel the apples, cut them in half, remove the core, and then cut them into quarters 10. From these, cut into cubes about 0.4 inches (1 cm) large 11. Transfer the apple cubes to a bowl and add the lemon zest 12.
Add the juice 13, the sugar 14, and mix 15.
Coarsely crumble the amaretti with your hands 16 and add them to the apples 17. Mix well 18.
Butter and flour a 8-inch springform pan. Place three-quarters of the dough on the bottom of the pan, pressing with your hands to cover the entire bottom and raise the edges to contain the filling 19. Pour in the apples with the amaretti 20, level, and cover with the remaining crumbled dough 21.
Try to completely cover the apples, without pressing this time 22. Bake the apple crumble cake in a preheated static oven at 356°F (180°C) for about 35 minutes. Remove from the oven 23 and let it cool completely before removing from the mold 34 and serving.