Both hardwood and softwood can be used for both indoor and outdoor applications but some are more resistant to UV and moisture then others. These are ones that should be chosen when being used outside.

These particular species have natural oils and resins that fill cells of wood and provide, in some cases, very good protection against rot and insects. Species like cedar for example last for decades in direct contact with ground while spruce would be rotten in under 5 years.

Of course cedar is a softwood and is used a lot throughout furniture and house construction industry. However, some hardwoods also have very good resistance to rot and insects. Species like teak and mahogany are used a lot in tropics for boat construction, but since cost of these exotic hardwood species is so much in North America we tend to use softwood in outdoor applications.

Another important factor is whether or not you want you intend to use a clear finish or paint to protect your project. Cedar needs to be sealed to prevent oils from leaching through paint. Some species of hardwood like poplar and birch are great for accepting paint but have a tendency to blotch when stain is applied.

3) Cook fruit with cornstarch in a medium pot or pan for 2 minutes, and spread fruit filling on dough.

4) Sprinkle rest of dough onto fruit, and bake for about 40 minutes at around 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

Remember, ovens may vary. Yours may be faster or slower or require less or more degrees Fahrenheit. It also depends on how dark pan you use is. Be sure to keep checking on crumble cake every few minutes. When top is nice and brown, then it should be ready.

Even if your German Crumble Cake didn't turn out exactly right, not to worry. Nobody says you have to be a professional. I'm certainly not. My philosophy with food has always been "As long as it tastes good, I don't care if it's imperfect."

Try experimenting with recipe. I usually never follow recipes to letter. For this one, I use a bigger glass pan and only 2 cans of fruit. Figure out what works for you. Practice making this German dessert recipe and any other desserts, and you'll eventually settle into your own style of baking, like every other individual.