Easy Gluten-Free Cinnamon Crumb Cake: Your Go-To Recipe for a Deliciously Simple Treat

Imagine a tender, soft, and utterly delicious cake, generously flavored with warm cinnamon and crowned with a delightful, crumbly streusel topping. This isn’t just any cake; it’s an easy gluten-free crumb cake that promises pure comfort with every bite. Whether you’re looking for a delightful quick breakfast to start your day, a satisfying sweet snack for an afternoon pick-me-up, or a light yet indulgent dessert, this recipe fits every occasion. Perfectly paired with a comforting mug of tea or a robust cup of coffee, this cinnamon crumb cake is destined to become a beloved favorite in your home.

Discover the Joy of a Delicious Gluten-Free Crumb Cake

I don’t know about you, but my heart truly belongs to unfussy cakes – those magical creations that come together effortlessly without demanding any intricate cake-decorating prowess. There’s a certain joy in baking something simple yet incredibly satisfying, a dessert that feels like a warm hug without the stress.

From a zesty lemon yogurt cake to a vibrant blueberry dump cake, a delightful easy strawberry cake, or even a rich flourless almond cake – my absolute favorite cakes all share one common thread: they are practically foolproof. This means anyone, regardless of their baking experience, can whip them up with confidence and achieve fantastic results. And this cinnamon crumb cake is no exception!

This gluten-free cinnamon crumb cake embodies simplicity and incredible flavor. It’s designed to be straightforward to prepare, wonderfully easy to eat, and boasts a taste that will have everyone asking for more. The combination of a moist, tender cake base and a sweet, spiced streusel topping creates a harmonious blend of textures and aromas that’s truly irresistible.

The beauty of this easy crumb cake lies in its versatility. You can indulge in it at any time of day. Serve it for a sweet and comforting breakfast to kickstart your morning, enjoy a slice as an afternoon snack with your favorite hot beverage, or bring it to a potluck as a light yet impressive dessert that caters to various dietary needs. Its inviting aroma and comforting taste make it a perfect treat for any occasion.

Why This Easy Gluten-Free Crumb Cake Recipe Will Become Your New Favorite:

There are countless reasons why this particular gluten-free crumb cake recipe stands out and deserves a permanent spot in your baking repertoire. Here’s what makes it so special:

• Simple, Accessible Ingredients: You won’t need to hunt for obscure or expensive items to make this cake. The main ingredients required for this delicious gluten-free crumb cake are everyday staples that are readily available at your local grocery store. We believe that great baking shouldn’t require fancy, hard-to-find components, and this recipe perfectly embodies that philosophy.
• Incredibly Easy to Make: Forget complicated techniques or hours spent in the kitchen. Preparing the cake batter is a breeze – simply combine the dry ingredients, then mix in the wet ingredients until just combined. The streusel topping is equally straightforward to create, requiring only a few minutes to achieve that perfect crumbly texture. Once the batter is poured into the pan and topped with the generous streusel, it’s ready for the oven. This simplicity makes it a perfect recipe for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, proving that extraordinary flavor doesn’t have to come with extraordinary effort.
• Completely Gluten-Free (with Dairy-Free Options): One of the absolute best aspects of this crumble cake recipe is its commitment to being 100% gluten-free. This means that individuals with Celiac disease or gluten intolerances can enjoy a classic treat without worry. But we didn’t stop there! We’ve also included easy-to-follow options to make this cake dairy-free, ensuring that even those with lactose intolerances can partake in this delectable dessert. Everyone deserves a slice of deliciousness, and this recipe makes it possible.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: From a cozy Sunday morning breakfast to an elegant afternoon tea or a casual potluck, this crumb cake fits right in. Its comforting flavors and inviting appearance make it suitable for a wide range of settings.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of tender cake, warm cinnamon, and sweet, buttery streusel creates a flavor profile that is universally loved. It’s sweet but not overly so, with just the right amount of spice to make it truly irresistible.

Essential Ingredients for Your Gluten-Free Crumb Cake:

Crafting this delightful gluten-free crumb cake requires a handful of common ingredients. Below is a visual overview to help you gather everything you need. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture, so selecting good quality ingredients is key.

(For the precise measurements and a convenient, printable version of this recipe, please scroll down to the printable recipe card located at the very bottom of this post.)

Recipe Notes and Smart Substitutions for Success:

Understanding your ingredients and having options for substitutions can make all the difference in successful gluten-free baking. Here are some detailed notes and helpful tips for each component:

• Butter: For the best results, always use unsalted butter in this recipe. If you only have salted butter on hand, simply omit the additional salt called for in the recipe to maintain the right flavor balance. For those with lactose intolerance or who prefer a dairy-free alternative, unsalted dairy-free butter substitutes work beautifully and will yield a similarly rich and tender cake.
• Vegetable Oil: I personally prefer using sunflower oil because it’s a staple in my pantry and has a neutral flavor that doesn’t overpower the delicate notes of the cake. However, feel free to use other neutral-tasting vegetable oils such as canola oil, avocado oil, or even a light olive oil if those are what you prefer or have readily available. The oil adds essential moisture to the cake, ensuring it stays wonderfully tender.
• Gluten-Free Flour: The type of gluten-free flour you choose is crucial for the final texture of your crumb cake. It’s imperative to use a high-quality gluten-free measure-for-measure flour blend. This kind of blend is specifically formulated to be a 1:1 substitute for regular all-purpose flour. Look for blends primarily composed of lighter flours and starches, such as rice flour, tapioca starch, potato starch, or corn starch. These create a lighter, fluffier texture. I strongly advise against using gluten-free flour blends that are heavy in flours like garbanzo bean flour, as these can result in a noticeably denser, sometimes gritty, texture.
• Xanthan Gum: Xanthan gum acts as the essential binding agent in gluten-free baking, mimicking the role of gluten. It’s critical for giving the cake structure and preventing it from crumbling excessively. Many commercial gluten-free flour blends already include xanthan gum. If your chosen blend does not list it in its ingredients, make sure to add the specified amount to your dry ingredients.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: This recipe utilizes a combination of both baking powder and baking soda. This duo works synergistically to create the perfect amount of lift and tenderness in the cake batter, ensuring a light and airy crumb structure. Don’t skip either!
• White Sugar: While standard white granulated sugar provides the perfect sweetness and texture, cane sugar is a perfectly suitable alternative. For those managing blood sugar levels, such as individuals with diabetes or insulin resistance, I highly recommend using a granulated monk fruit sweetener. This is a 1:1 sugar substitute with a zero glycemic index, meaning it won’t spike your blood sugar while still delivering delightful sweetness.
• Eggs: Eggs are more than just a leavening agent; they are vital for binding all the ingredients together, adding richness, and contributing to the cake’s overall structure. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
• Vanilla Extract: A good quality vanilla extract is a non-negotiable for me! It deepens the flavor profile of the cake, adding a subtle warmth and aromatic complexity that truly elevates the overall taste.
• Sour Cream: Sour cream is a secret weapon for moist cakes. Its acidity tenderizes the crumb, and its fat content adds richness. If you don’t have sour cream, plain Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute, offering similar moisture and tang. For a lactose-free version, simply opt for a dairy-free sour cream alternative.
• Buttermilk: Buttermilk contributes to the cake’s tender texture and adds a slight tang that complements the sweetness. You can easily find store-bought buttermilk, or you can make your own at home by mixing one cup of milk (dairy or non-dairy) with one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it curdles slightly. If you’re going dairy-free, use a dairy-free milk alternative to create your own dairy-free buttermilk.
• Brown Sugar: The rich, molasses notes of brown sugar are essential for the streusel topping, giving it that classic depth of flavor and appealing caramelization. Coconut sugar can also be used as a natural alternative. For a sugar-free option that maintains the brown sugar taste and texture, brown granulated monk fruit sweetener is an excellent 1:1 substitute that won’t impact blood sugar levels.
• Cinnamon: The star of our crumb cake! The generous amount of ground cinnamon infuses both the cake and the streusel with its distinctive warmth and inviting aroma, making this truly a “cinnamon crumb cake.” Adjust the amount to your personal preference, but I find this quantity perfect.
• Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioner’s sugar, powdered sugar is key for creating a smooth, drizzle-able glaze due to its very fine texture. It dissolves easily and sets beautifully. For a zero-glycemic index option, powdered monk fruit sweetener is a fantastic 1:1 substitute for diabetics or those on a low-sugar diet.

How to Make Your Perfect Gluten-Free Crumb Cake (Step-by-Step Guide):

Follow these simple instructions to bake a truly unforgettable gluten-free cinnamon crumb cake. Each step is designed to be straightforward, ensuring a smooth baking process and a delicious result.

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

Before you begin mixing, make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking from the moment your cake goes in. Line a 9″ x 9″ baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides. This overhang will act as handles, making it much easier to lift the cooled cake out of the pan. Set the prepared pan aside.

2. Whisk Dry Ingredients for the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, begin preparing your vanilla cake batter. Sift together the gluten-free measure-for-measure flour, xanthan gum (if your flour blend doesn’t already contain it), baking powder, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar. Sifting is an important step that helps to aerate the flour and ensures all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, preventing lumps in the final batter.

3. Combine with Wet Ingredients

To the bowl containing your thoroughly whisked dry ingredients, add the softened unsalted butter, vegetable oil, sour cream, vanilla extract, eggs, buttermilk, and milk. Using a whisk, blend all these ingredients together until they are fully combined and a smooth, consistent cake batter forms. Be careful not to overmix; mix just until no dry streaks of flour remain to ensure a tender cake.

4. Prepare the Crumbly Streusel Topping

In a separate medium-sized bowl, begin assembling your delicious streusel topping. Add the gluten-free flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Use a fork to blend these dry ingredients together thoroughly. This ensures the cinnamon and sugar are well distributed before the butter is added.

5. Incorporate Cold Butter into Streusel

Now, add the cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes, to the streusel mixture. Using a fork or a pastry blender, work the cold butter into the flour and sugar mixture. Continue to press and blend until a beautiful, coarse, and crumbly streusel forms. The key is to keep the butter cold, which helps create distinct, crisp crumbs during baking.

6. Layer the Cake Batter

Retrieve your prepared 9″ x 9″ baking pan. Carefully pour approximately half of the vanilla cake batter into the pan. Use a spatula to gently spread it into an even layer, ensuring good coverage across the bottom. This forms the foundational layer for our delicious crumb cake.

7. Add the First Layer of Streusel

Generously sprinkle half of your prepared sweet streusel mixture evenly over the first layer of cake batter. Make sure to cover the surface well, as this layer will add texture and cinnamon-sugar goodness throughout the cake.

8. Repeat Layers for Maximum Crumb

Carefully pour the remaining cake batter over the first streusel layer, gently spreading it to form an even second layer. Once the batter is spread, liberally coat the top with the rest of the streusel mixture. This ensures a thick, satisfying crumbly topping that is truly the hallmark of a great crumb cake.

9. Bake to Golden Perfection

Place your layered crumb cake in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35 to 40 minutes. Baking times can vary, so keep an eye on it. The cake is ready when a wooden toothpick or skewer inserted into the center comes out clean, with no wet batter attached. The streusel topping should be golden brown and fragrant.

10. Cool and Prepare the Sweet Glaze

Once baked, remove the gluten-free crumb cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan on a wire rack. While the cake cools, you can prepare the optional glaze. In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar with the milk. Whisk thoroughly until a smooth, thin glaze forms. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit more milk; if too thin, a bit more powdered sugar.

11. Drizzle the Glaze

Once the cake has cooled sufficiently (it doesn’t need to be completely cold, just cool enough for the glaze to set), carefully lift it from the baking dish using the parchment paper handles. Transfer it to a serving platter or cutting board. Drizzle the prepared glaze generously over the entire top of the cake, letting it cascade down the sides slightly. The glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish.

12. Slice, Serve, and Savor!

Allow the glaze a few minutes to set, then cut the glorious gluten-free cinnamon crumb cake into 9 equal squares. Serve immediately and bask in the deliciousness of your homemade treat! It’s perfect for sharing, or for keeping all to yourself.

Dish by Dish Tips & Tricks for the Best Gluten-Free Crumb Cake:

Enhance your baking experience and ensure perfect results every time with these extra tips and tricks:

• Storing Your Crumb Cake: To maintain the freshness and deliciousness of this gluten-free crumble cake, it’s best to store it properly. Place any leftovers in an airtight container or simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For the best flavor and texture, allow the cake to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. You can also gently warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds for a freshly baked feel.
• Make it a Blueberry Crumb Cake: For a delightful fruity variation, feel free to fold about 1 cup of fresh blueberries (or frozen, not thawed) into the cake batter before pouring it into the pan. The blueberries will burst during baking, adding a wonderful tang and juiciness that perfectly complements the cinnamon streusel. This transforms it into an amazing gluten-free blueberry crumb cake!
• Add a Nutty Crunch: For an extra layer of texture and flavor, consider adding 1/2 cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts to your streusel mixture. This will introduce a lovely nutty crunch that pairs beautifully with the sweet, spiced crumbs.
• Spice It Up: Don’t limit yourself to just cinnamon! Experiment with other warming spices like a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or allspice in your streusel for a unique twist on this classic.
• Serving Suggestions: While delicious on its own, this crumb cake is also fantastic with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a side of fresh berries for an elevated dessert experience.

Other Easy Gluten-Free Cake Recipes to Indulge In:

If you loved this simple and delicious crumb cake, you’ll surely enjoy these other easy-to-bake gluten-free cake recipes from our collection:

• Lemon Yogurt Cake (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free Option)
• Flourless Almond Cake (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Easy Coffee Cake (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Moist Pumpkin Cake (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Easy Coconut Cake (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)

More Gluten-Free Desserts to Indulge In:

P.S. If you try this recipe, I’d love for you to leave a star rating below, and/or a review in the comment section further down the page. I always appreciate your feedback. Be sure to check out my entire Recipe Index for all the recipes on the blog. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook or Instagram! Sign up for my Email List to get fresh recipes in your inbox each week!

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Easy Gluten-Free Crumb Cake

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5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 1 review

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  Author: Felicia Lim
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  Total Time: 55 minutes
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  Yield: 9 servings
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  Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

This gluten-free crumb cake is a delightful treat, featuring a tender, soft cake base infused with warm cinnamon, generously topped with a sweet, buttery streusel. It’s the perfect fuss-free recipe for any time of day – whether you crave a quick, comforting breakfast, a satisfying afternoon snack, or a simple, elegant dessert. Enjoy it best with a comforting cup of tea or your favorite coffee.

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Ingredients

Units

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For the Gluten-Free Cake Batter:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 cups gluten-free measure-for-measure flour
• 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum (omit if your gluten-free flour blend doesn’t already include it)
• 1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup white granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup milk

For the Streusel:

• 1 3/4 cup gluten-free measure-for-measure flour
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed and cold

For the Glaze (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Line: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9″ x 9″ baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal, and set it aside.
2. Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, meticulously sift together the gluten-free measure-for-measure flour, xanthan gum (if not already in your flour blend), baking powder, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar. This ensures a lump-free, evenly combined dry mixture.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: To the bowl with the sifted dry ingredients, incorporate the softened unsalted butter, vegetable oil, sour cream, vanilla extract, eggs, buttermilk, and milk. Whisk everything together thoroughly until a smooth, uniform batter forms, taking care not to overmix.
4. Prepare Streusel: In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt for the streusel. Use a fork to blend these ingredients until they are well distributed.
5. Add Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the streusel mixture. Use a fork or a pastry blender to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until a coarse, crumbly streusel mixture is achieved.
6. Pour Batter into Pan: Pour half of the prepared cake batter into your parchment-lined baking pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
7. Top with Streusel Mixture: Sprinkle half of the delicious streusel mixture evenly over the first layer of cake batter.
8. Repeat: Gently pour the remaining cake batter over the first streusel layer, spreading it carefully. Then, sprinkle the rest of the streusel mixture generously over the top of the batter to create a thick crumbly topping.
9. Bake Until Ready: Bake the cake in your preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating it’s perfectly baked. The streusel should be golden and fragrant.
10. Let Cool and Prepare Glaze: Allow the gluten-free crumb cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack. While it’s cooling, prepare the optional glaze: in a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until a thin, smooth glaze forms.
11. Drizzle Glaze Over Cake: Once the cake has cooled sufficiently, remove it from the baking dish using the parchment paper. Drizzle the prepared glaze beautifully over the top of the cake.
12. Serve and Enjoy: Let the glaze set slightly, then cut the gluten-free cinnamon crumb cake into 9 equal squares. Serve and savor this delightful homemade treat!

Notes

Butter: For optimal results, ensure you use unsalted butter. If only salted butter is available, simply omit the extra salt from the recipe. For dairy-free needs, unsalted dairy-free butter is an excellent substitute.

Vegetable Oil: Sunflower oil is my personal choice due to its neutral flavor and availability. However, canola, avocado, or a mild olive oil are equally good options for this recipe.

Gluten-Free Flour: The key to a light and fluffy cake is a high-quality gluten-free measure-for-measure flour blend. Look for blends with lighter starches like rice, tapioca, potato, or corn. Avoid blends primarily made from heavier flours (e.g., garbanzo bean), which can result in a dense texture.

Xanthan Gum: This is a crucial binder in gluten-free baking. If your chosen gluten-free flour blend doesn’t already contain it, adding xanthan gum is essential for the cake’s structure.

Baking Powder & Baking Soda: The combination of these two leavening agents ensures your cake rises beautifully and has a tender crumb.

White Sugar: Granulated white sugar works perfectly, and cane sugar is a fine alternative. For sugar-conscious bakers, granulated monk fruit sweetener offers a zero-glycemic, 1:1 sugar substitute.

Eggs: Eggs are vital for binding ingredients and adding moisture. Ensure they are at room temperature for better emulsion with other ingredients.

Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake, adding a comforting aroma.

Sour Cream: Sour cream provides incredible moisture and a slight tang. Plain Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute. For a dairy-free option, use dairy-free sour cream.

Buttermilk: Use store-bought buttermilk, or make your own by mixing 1 cup of milk (dairy or dairy-free) with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, letting it sit for 5 minutes. Use a dairy-free milk for dairy-free buttermilk.

Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a rich, moist texture and deeper flavor to the streusel. Coconut sugar is a good alternative. For a sugar-free brown sugar option, try brown granulated monk fruit sweetener.

Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is the heart of this “cinnamon crumb cake,” providing its signature warm, spiced flavor. Adjust to your preference.

Powdered Sugar: Essential for a smooth, easy-to-drizzle glaze. Powdered sugar dissolves readily. For a healthier alternative, powdered monk fruit sweetener is a great zero-glycemic substitute.

Storing: Keep the cake in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best taste and texture, bring to room temperature before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 40 mins
• Category: Cake
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American