New Jersey’s crumb buns elevate the traditional coffee cake with a rich layer of buttery crumbs.
These treats showcase a perfect balance between a barely sweet, yeasted cake base and an indulgently thick streusel topping.
New Jersey Crumb Cake vs. Crumb Buns
The terms ‘crumb cake’ and ‘crumb buns’ are often used interchangeably in recipes and menus, but key differences exist. New Jersey crumb cakes can be made with non-yeasted yellow or sour cream cake batter, while crumb buns traditionally use yeasted dough. This tradition dates back to German immigrants who brought their baking techniques to the New York and New Jersey areas.
Crumb buns use an enriched dough similar to that used for cinnamon buns, which bakes up fluffy and sturdy enough to support the heavy crumb layer. Older bakeries in New Jersey continue this tradition, serving the buns in generously-sized, individually cut squares. The crumbs must be soft, cohesive, and heavily flavored with brown sugar and cinnamon.
The Yeasted Cake
The yeasted cake base for these crumb buns comes together using a typical enriched bread dough formula. This includes milk, egg, softened butter, flour, yeast, salt, and a touch of sugar. Some recipes also incorporate lemon zest, which adds a pleasant tartness contrasting the sweet topping.
Kneading the dough with a stand mixer gives it a stretchy consistency, ideal for holding the thick crumb layer. The dough is then patted and stretched into a 9-by-13-inch metal baking pan and allowed to rise. This yeasty, barely sweet layer provides the perfect balance to the topping.
Perfecting the Crumb Topping
Perfecting the crumb topping was challenging. Traditional recipes call for mixing sugars, flour, and cinnamon with melted butter. However, this method often resulted in crunchy crumbs, which are undesirable for this treat.
The solution came in creaming softened butter with sugars until light and fluffy, then mixing in flour. This technique creates a cookie dough-like mixture that forms soft, cohesive crumbs. The result is a velvety crumb topping that is perfect for New Jersey crumb buns.
The final buns, showered with confectioners’ sugar, transport you right to Jersey with their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
A Nostalgic Culinary Experience
New Jersey crumb buns evoke a sense of nostalgia for many who grew up in the region. They recall family gatherings, summer trips to the Jersey Shore, and Sunday mornings at local bakeries. This deep emotional connection makes these buns more than just a dessert; they are a cherished tradition.
Bakeries like Styertowne, Mueller’s, and B&W in New Jersey maintain this heritage, continuing to produce crumb buns that honor the original German recipes. The appreciation for these buns extends beyond the state, with former residents reminiscing about this unique treat.
The Art of Balancing Flavors
Creating the perfect crumb bun requires a balance of flavors and textures. The yeasted dough provides a slightly tangy, barely sweet base, while the buttery crumbs add a rich, sweet contrast. It is this interplay that makes New Jersey crumb buns stand out from average coffee cakes.
The crumb topping should not be overly sweet or crunchy. Instead, it must offer a soft, cohesive texture that melts in the mouth. Achieving this balance requires precise ratios of ingredients and careful preparation.
The result is a dessert that is both indulgent and satisfying, with a complexity of flavors that delights the palate.
Tips for Homemade Success
When making New Jersey crumb buns at home, use a metal baking pan for best results. The dough should rise right in the pan, saving time and reducing cleanup. Wet your hands to prevent sticking when shaping the dough.
For the crumb topping, cream the butter and sugars before adding the flour to ensure a soft, cohesive texture. Allow the topping mixture to sit for at least 10 minutes before applying it to the dough. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect crumb consistency.
Bake the buns until the crumbs are light golden brown. Avoid overbaking, as this will result in a crunchy topping. Cool the buns completely before cutting and dust with confectioners’ sugar just before serving for the best presentation.
Storing and Serving Crumb Buns
Crumb buns can be stored at room temperature for up to three days if tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. Dust with confectioners’ sugar just before serving for the freshest taste.
These buns are best enjoyed fresh, but their flavor and texture remain delightful even after a few days. They make for a perfect breakfast treat or a sweet snack any time of day.
New Jersey crumb buns are a delightful twist on the traditional coffee cake, offering a rich, sweet crumb topping on a barely sweet, yeasted base.
This culinary tradition continues to bring joy and nostalgia to those who enjoy its unique flavors.
Source: Seriouseats