Name: cinnamon sugar crumble loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups (190 g) all‑purpose flour; ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar; 2 tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ¼ cup (55 g) brown sugar, packed; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; ¼ cup (30 g) rolled oats; 2 tbsp cold butter, diced (for crumble); 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for crumble); ½ tsp ground cinnamon (for crumble)

cinnamon sugar crumble loaf

Published on November 15, 2025

4.8 (245 reviews)

A cinnamon‑sugar crumble loaf is the perfect bridge between a soft, buttery cake and a crunchy streusel topping. The fragrant spice awakens the senses, while the caramelized sugar crust adds a satisfy

Save This Recipe!

Click to save for later - It only takes 2 seconds!

Prep Time

15 min

Cook Time

45 min

Servings

8 slices

Why You'll Love This Recipe

✓ Comfort in a Slice: Warm cinnamon and sweet crumble create a cozy, nostalgic flavor that feels like a hug on a cool afternoon.

✓ Easy One‑Bowl Method: All components are mixed in a single bowl, minimizing cleanup while delivering a bakery‑quality crumb.

✓ Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, with a drizzle of glaze, or toasted with butter for extra indulgence.

I first baked this loaf for a rainy‑day brunch, and the aroma filled the whole house, turning a simple morning into a celebration. Its modest ingredient list makes it accessible, yet the texture feels indulgent enough for special occasions.

What sets this loaf apart is the balance of sweet and spice, plus the crumbly topping that stays crisp even after cooling. It stores beautifully, making it a ready‑to‑serve treat for busy weeks.

2  teaspoons baking powder Ensures a light rise.

¼  teaspoon salt Enhances sweetness.

½  cup unsalted butter, softened Room temperature for smooth creaming.

¾  cup granulated sugar Divided: half in batter, half for crumble.

2 large eggs Room temperature for even mixing.

½  cup whole milk Adds moisture and richness.

2  teaspoons ground cinnamon Divided between batter and crumble.

¼  cup brown sugar For the crunchy topping.

¼  cup cold butter, cubed Creates the crumbly topping.

Instructions

Prepare the Crumble

In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup cold butter, 2 tsp cinnamon, and the remaining ¼ cup granulated sugar. Use fingertips to rub the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.

Pro Tip: Keep butter cold; it prevents the crumble from melting before baking.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with ½ cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the milk.

Pro Tip: Add a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth (optional).

Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and 2 tsp cinnamon in a separate bowl. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet batter, stirring just until incorporated; over‑mixing will make the loaf dense.

Pro Tip: Use a rubber spatula for gentle folding.

Assemble the Loaf

Pour the batter into a greased 9×5‑inch loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Evenly sprinkle the prepared crumble over the surface, pressing lightly to adhere.

Pro Tip: A wet fingertip helps the crumble stick without melting.

Bake and Cool

Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 40‑45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.

Pro Tip: If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil for the last 10 minutes.

Expert Tips

Tip #1: Chill the Crumble

After mixing the crumble, refrigerate for 10 minutes. The cold butter holds its shape longer, giving a crispier topping after baking.

Tip #2: Use Room‑Temp Eggs

Room‑temperature eggs blend more evenly with butter and sugar, preventing lumps and ensuring a smooth batter.

Tip #3: Slice While Warm

For clean cuts, slice the loaf after it has rested 15 minutes on the rack; the crumb will hold together without crumbling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Replace the granulated sugar with an equal amount of honey, but reduce the milk by 2 tablespoons to balance the added liquid. The loaf will be slightly denser and have a richer flavor.

Use an 8‑inch round cake pan or a 9×9‑inch square pan. Adjust baking time by checking for doneness at the 35‑minute mark; the loaf may bake a few minutes longer in a deeper pan.

Absolutely. Cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and re‑heat slices in a toaster oven for a fresh‑baked feel.