Blackberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

If you are looking for a delicious dessert that combines the flavors of fresh blackberries with a rich cream cheese layer, look no further than Blackberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake. This cake is the perfect combination of moist cake, sweet and tart berries, and a crumbly topping. It’s great for any occasion, whether you are hosting a brunch, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging in a sweet treat. The blackberries add a burst of flavor with each bite, while the cream cheese offers a smooth and creamy texture that is hard to resist.

This crumb cake is also easy to make and can be baked fresh in your kitchen. With simple ingredients and straightforward directions, you can whip up this tasty dessert in no time. So, let’s dive into what you need to make this scrumptious Blackberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake!

Ingredients about Blackberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

To make the Blackberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake, you will need several ingredients that work together to create a delicious flavor and texture. Below is a detailed list of exactly what you will need:

List of ingredients with measurements

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar, divided into 3/4 cup and 1/4 cup
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream, at room temperature
• 1 and 1/3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 heaping cup fresh or frozen blackberries (do not thaw)
• 8 ounces full-fat brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1/3 cup packed dark or light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3/4 cup confectioners sugar (optional for icing)
• 1 and 1/2 tablespoons milk, heavy cream, or lemon juice (optional for icing)
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional for icing)

Optional ingredient substitutions

This recipe is quite flexible, and you can make some substitutions if needed. If you don’t have sour cream, you can use plain yogurt as a replacement. If you prefer a healthier option, consider using coconut sugar or maple syrup instead of regular granulated sugar. You can also swap out the blackberries for other berries like blueberries or raspberries if you want to try different flavors. For the cream cheese, you can use a lower-fat option if you wish, though it may change the texture slightly.

How to Make Blackberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s move on to making the Blackberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake. Follow these simple steps to create your delicious cake.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, take a 9-inch or 10-inch springform pan and grease it well. You can use butter or cooking spray for this. The grease will help the cake come out easily once it’s baked.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or a stand mixer to beat the softened butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes creamy and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Next, add the eggs, one by one, making sure to mix well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and the sour cream, and continue to mix.

Once everything is well combined, slowly add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix. The batter may be thick. Gently fold in the blackberries. You can use a spatula or a wooden spoon to do this, and set aside the batter.

Step 3: Spread the Batter in the Pan

Now, pour the thick cake batter into the prepared springform pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom of the pan. Make sure it is smooth and level to achieve even baking.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar until it is creamy. You want it to be smooth and easy to spread. Once it’s ready, carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter. This creates a rich layer in the cake.

Step 5: Prepare the Crumb Topping

To make the crumb topping, combine the brown sugar, 1/2 cup of flour, and ground cinnamon in another bowl. Add the cold, cubed butter to this mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut in the butter until the mixture looks like small pea-sized crumbs. Sprinkle this crumb topping over the cream cheese layer evenly.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Place the springform pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 60-65 minutes. To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out mostly clean, but with a few moist crumbs. If the top of the cake starts to brown too much before it’s done, you can tent it with aluminum foil to prevent burning. Once it is baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before removing the sides of the springform pan.

Step 7: Prepare the Icing (Optional)

If you choose to add icing, whisk the confectioners’ sugar with the milk (or heavy cream or lemon juice) and the vanilla extract until smooth. Once the cake has cooled a bit, drizzle the icing over the warm cake for added sweetness.

How to Serve Blackberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

Now that your Blackberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is baked and ready, it’s time to serve it. Here are some ideas for presenting this delightful treat.

Best ways to serve Blackberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

The Blackberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is delicious on its own, but it can also be served with some accompaniments. You can serve slices of the cake warm or at room temperature. For a brunch setting, cut the cake into squares for easy serving.

Serving suggestions or pairings

Consider serving the cake with a dollop of whipped cream on the side for added richness. Fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can also enhance the presentation and flavor. If you enjoy coffee, a cup of your favorite brew pairs perfectly with this cake, making it a great treat for breakfast or afternoon coffee breaks.

How to Store Blackberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

To ensure that your Blackberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake stays fresh and delicious, proper storage is important.

Proper storage methods

Once the cake has cooled completely, you can cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. If you used a springform pan, you can leave the sides on until you are ready to serve. The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Tips for reheating or freezing

If you have leftovers and would like to keep the cake longer, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you are ready to enjoy it again, let the cake thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. If you prefer to eat it warm, you can gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.

Tips to Make Blackberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

Baking can sometimes be tricky, so here are some helpful tips and common mistakes to avoid when making this cake.

Common mistakes to avoid

One common mistake is not measuring the ingredients correctly. Be sure to spoon and level the flour to get the right amount. Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake, so mix just until combined. Also, be careful not to bake the cake for too long, as this can dry it out.

Helpful tips for better results

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a bit of lemon zest to the batter for brightness. If you’re using frozen blackberries, avoid thawing them, as they can make the batter too wet. Cold butter in the crumb topping is essential; it helps form those perfect crumbs. For an extra special touch, add a sprinkle of lemon zest or a few extra berries on top before baking if you have it handy.

Variation of Blackberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

If you want to switch things up, there are many great variations to try with this recipe.

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

Instead of blackberries, feel free to experiment with different fruits. Blueberries, raspberries, or even chopped strawberries would be excellent replacements. You could also add nuts like walnuts or pecans into the crumb topping for added crunch.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. You can also opt for lower sugar substitutes if you are looking to reduce sugar in your dessert. This could include using stevia or erythritol. Consider using dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream if avoiding dairy.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you with your Blackberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake experience.

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your cake doesn’t rise or feels dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. Always mix until just combined. Make sure your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening agents can affect the cake’s rise. If the top darkens too quickly, cover it lightly with foil during baking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! The Blackberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will taste just as delicious the next day. If you make it even further in advance, consider freezing it and thawing it overnight in the fridge before serving.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

If you find yourself missing an ingredient, there are several substitutions you can use. Greek yogurt can replace sour cream in most recipes. Different types of berries can easily be swapped out. For a non-dairy version, look for vegan cream cheese alternatives that are available in most grocery stores.

With its delightful flavors and textures, Blackberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake will surely become a favorite dessert in your kitchen. The combination of sweet blackberries, rich cream cheese, and a crumbly topping creates a dessert that is satisfying and indulgent. Make this incredible cake for your next gathering, and enjoy the smiles it brings to your family and friends!

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