squares of a crumb cake

Here’s a classic crumb cake recipe that you can cut into squares—perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. I’ll give you step-by-step directions so it comes out soft with a crunchy crumb topping.

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Crumb Cake Squares (Step-by-Step)

🍰 Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (120 ml) milk

For the Crumb Topping:

• 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, cold, cut into small cubes

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Equipment

• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Spatula
• Fork or pastry cutter (for crumb topping)

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Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×9-inch pan or line with parchment paper.

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Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

1. In a bowl, mix:
   • 1 cup flour
   • ½ cup sugar
   • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
2. Cut in ½ cup cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
3. Set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Cake Batter

1. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup softened butter and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
3. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together:
   • 2 cups flour
   • 2 teaspoons baking powder
   • ½ teaspoon salt
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with ½ cup milk.
6. Mix until smooth, but do not overmix.

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Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
2. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter.

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Step 5: Bake

1. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. The crumbs should be lightly golden.

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Step 6: Cool and Cut

1. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes.
2. Remove from the pan (if using parchment) and let cool completely on a rack.
3. Cut into squares—8, 9, or 12 depending on your preferred size.

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Tips

• For extra flavor, sprinkle chopped nuts over the crumb topping.
• You can add a drizzle of glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a sweet finish.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.