Blueberry Crumb Cake

Blueberry crumb cake is a delightful dessert that beautifully combines the fruity sweetness of blueberries with a rich, buttery cake and a crunchy crumb topping. This cake is versatile enough to be served for breakfast, as a snack, or for dessert. Its tender crumb is moist and flavorful, making it a true treat for any occasion. The tangy blueberries burst in your mouth with each bite, and the crumb topping adds a delightful texture that makes this cake truly special. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a sweet ending to your day, blueberry crumb cake is sure to please everyone.

The cake has a light sweetness balanced by the tartness of fresh or frozen blueberries. The crumb topping is not only visually appealing but also adds an extra layer of flavor with hints of cinnamon that complement the blueberries perfectly. The aroma of the cake baking in the oven will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to partake in this scrumptious treat.

Perfect for sharing, this blueberry crumb cake can easily make its way to brunch gatherings, family get-togethers, or even as a gift for a friend. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this delicious cake together with ease, making it an ideal choice for both beginner and experienced bakers.

Let’s dive into how to create this delectable blueberry crumb cake that will leave your family and friends asking for seconds.

Ingredients about Blueberry Crumb Cake

List of ingredients with measurements

• 190g (1 1⁄2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 150g (3⁄4 cup) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1⁄2 tsp baking soda
• 1⁄4 tsp salt
• 115g (1⁄2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 120ml (1⁄2 cup) sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 200g (1 1⁄2 cups) fresh or frozen blueberries (if frozen, do not thaw)
• 95g (3⁄4 cup) all-purpose flour (for crumb topping)
• 100g (1⁄2 cup) brown sugar (for crumb topping)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for crumb topping)
• 85g (6 tbsp) cold unsalted butter, cubed (for crumb topping)

Optional ingredient substitutions

If you’re looking to make some adjustments based on what you have on hand or dietary restrictions, here are some possible substitutions:

• Instead of all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option, but it may affect the texture slightly.
• Granulated sugar can be replaced with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie alternative.
• Use melted coconut oil instead of unsalted butter to make it dairy-free.
• You can swap sour cream with plain yogurt or buttermilk if desired.
• For added flavor, a splash of almond extract can replace or complement the vanilla extract.

How to Make Blueberry Crumb Cake

Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the pan

Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). While the oven heats, take a 23 cm (9-inch) round cake pan and grease it thoroughly with butter or cooking spray. Then, line the bottom with parchment paper. This lining will help your cake to easily release from the pan once it’s baked.

Step 2: Combine dry ingredients

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together 190g of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Whisking these dry ingredients ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the batter, giving the cake a consistent texture and flavor. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream butter and sugar

In a large mixing bowl, start beating the softened 115g of unsalted butter with the 150g of granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process will incorporate air into the butter, aiding in creating a tender cake. Next, add the two large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Follow this by stirring in the 120ml of sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt) and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Combine wet and dry ingredients

Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet mixture and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing as it can result in a dense cake. Once the flour is incorporated, carefully fold in 200g of fresh or frozen blueberries into the batter. Gently mixing will keep the blueberries intact and distribute them evenly throughout the cake. Now, pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly to ensure it bakes uniformly.

Step 5: Prepare the crumb topping

In a separate bowl, combine 95g of all-purpose flour with 100g of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Mix these together until they are well blended. Then, add 85g of cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Use a fork or your fingers to blend the butter into the dry ingredients until you create coarse crumbs. These crumbs will add a delightful crunch to your cake.

Step 6: Assemble and bake

Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the cake batter in the pan, covering it evenly. Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After this cooling time, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Blueberry Crumb Cake

Best ways to serve Blueberry Crumb Cake

Blueberry crumb cake is quite versatile when it comes to serving. It can be served warm, at room temperature, or cold, based on personal preference. For a cozy breakfast or brunch option, serve a warm slice of the cake alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the cake complements the type of drinks perfectly, making it a treat to savor.

For a more indulgent dessert option, serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. This combination elevates the cake, introducing a creamy richness that balances the fruitiness. Consider garnishing it with a few additional fresh blueberries on top for an appealing presentation.

Serving suggestions or pairings

Pairing blueberry crumb cake with beverages enhances the overall experience. For a breakfast option, consider serving it with freshly squeezed orange juice or a flavored tea. In the afternoon, a nice cup of herbal tea could go wonderfully with this cake. For dessert, fruity cocktails or sweet dessert wines also make great companions. Adding a light dusting of powdered sugar on top before serving can also elevate your cake’s aesthetic appeal, making it look more gourmet.

How to Store Blueberry Crumb Cake

Proper storage methods

To store leftover blueberry crumb cake, allow it to cool completely if not consumed right away. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. The cake can be kept at room temperature for 2 to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it, which will keep it fresh for about a week.

Tips for reheating or freezing

If you prefer to enjoy a warm slice of cake later, you can reheat it. Simply place a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until warmed through. For longer storage, consider freezing your cake. Wrap it tightly and place it in the freezer, where it can last up to three months. When you want to enjoy some again, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it.

Tips to Make Blueberry Crumb Cake

Common mistakes to avoid

One common mistake when baking blueberry crumb cake involves overmixing the batter. When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to keep the cake tender. Also, ensure that you do not use thawed frozen blueberries, as they may result in excess moisture, altering the cake’s texture.

Another mistake is not measuring the ingredients accurately. Be sure to use a kitchen scale for precision, especially when it comes to flour. Too much or too little flour can greatly change the consistency of your cake.

Helpful tips for better results

For the best flavor and texture, always use room-temperature ingredients. This is particularly important for butter, eggs, and sour cream, as they will blend more seamlessly into the batter. Additionally, consider using seasonal blueberries for peak flavor or even mixing in a handful of other berries like raspberries or blackberries for a different twist. Adding a little lemon zest to the batter can enhance the blueberry flavor and provide a refreshing zing.

Variation of Blueberry Crumb Cake

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

If you want to try different variations of blueberry crumb cake, consider adding nuts such as chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping for added crunch. A hint of lemon zest in the batter can brighten the cake and enhance the berry flavor. You may also experiment with different types of berries, such as strawberries or blackberries, or mix various berries together for a berry medley.

Another twist could involve spiraling some cream cheese into the batter for a rich and creamy center. Swirling it in right before you add the crumb topping adds moisture and a distinct flavor contrast.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

For those with specific dietary needs, modifications can be made to the recipe. Gluten-free all-purpose flour will work as a substitute to make this cake gluten-free. You can also use low-fat yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version. For a vegan alternative, consider using flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) and non-dairy yogurt or applesauce to substitute the eggs and dairy.

FAQs

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

If your blueberry crumb cake isn’t turning out as expected, check your measurements. Incorrect quantities can drastically affect texture and flavor. Ensure that the dried ingredients are fresh, especially the baking powder and baking soda, as expired leavening agents may prevent your cake from rising. If the cake seems dense, consider that overmixing can lead to a heavy texture; always mix gently.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Blueberry crumb cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container, as mentioned previously. This makes it perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests, as you can prepare it the day before and simply reheat it before serving. It actually often tastes better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

There are several substitutions available for the ingredients in your blueberry crumb cake. For the butter, you can use coconut oil or applesauce for a healthier alternative. Instead of sour cream or Greek yogurt, buttermilk works well, producing a moist cake. If you’re out of vanilla extract, you can try almond extract for a unique flavor profile. Play around with ingredient swaps to suit your taste and dietary requirements while still achieving a delicious outcome.

Blueberry crumb cake is a delightful dessert that embodies comfort and home-baked goodness with each bite. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe allows you to create a cake that is worth savoring. Enjoy the sweet layers of flavor and the perfect balance of textures that make this cake a beloved classic. Happy baking!

Print