Blueberry coffee cake is a sweet and simple dessert that brings joy to any table. With its soft, moist texture and bursts of fresh blueberries, this cake is a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for family breakfasts, afternoon snacks, or a light dessert. The crumbly streusel topping adds a delightful crunch, making it an irresistible treat.
In this article, you’ll discover an easy recipe for blueberry coffee cake, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make it perfect every time. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced cook, this guide has everything you need to bake a cake everyone will love.
The Origins of Coffee Cake
Coffee cake has been a beloved dessert for generations, with origins tracing back to Europe. Although it’s called “coffee cake,” it doesn’t always contain coffee. The name comes from the tradition of serving it alongside coffee or tea. Over time, this dessert evolved with regional twists, incorporating local flavors and ingredients.
The addition of blueberries to coffee cake is a modern twist that adds a burst of fruity sweetness. Blueberries not only enhance the flavor but also bring vibrant color and moisture to the cake. This combination has made blueberry coffee cake a favorite in homes and cafes worldwide.
ingredients of Overview
To make a delicious blueberry coffee cake, you’ll need these precise measurements:
For the Cake Batter:
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk or buttermilk
- 1 ½ cups (225 g) fresh or frozen blueberries (tossed in 1 tablespoon flour)
For the Streusel Topping:
- ⅓ cup (70 g) brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons (30 g) granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup (40 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons (45 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Preparation Essentials
Before starting, gather your tools and equipment:
- A large mixing bowl for the batter.
- A medium bowl for the streusel topping.
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
- A whisk or hand mixer for blending ingredients.
- A 9-inch round or square baking pan.
- Parchment paper for easy removal of the cake.
Preparation Tips:
- Preheat your oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line your baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the blueberries: Toss them in 1 tablespoon of flour. This prevents them from sinking to the bottom of the cake.
- Soften the butter: Leave it at room temperature for 30 minutes to ensure easy mixing.
- Measure accurately: Level off dry ingredients and use a liquid measuring cup for wet ingredients.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Blueberry Coffee Cake
Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, follow these simple steps to bake your blueberry coffee cake:
Prepare the Streusel Topping
- In a medium bowl, combine ⅓ cup (70 g) brown sugar, 2 tablespoons (30 g) granulated sugar, ⅓ cup (40 g) all-purpose flour, and ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon.
- Add 3 tablespoons (45 g) cold, cubed butter. Using a fork or your fingers, mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Set the streusel topping aside.
Mix the Dry Ingredients for the Cake
- In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt.
- Set the dry ingredients aside.
Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In another large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream ½ cup (115 g) softened butter and 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar. Beat until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture, alternating with 1 cup (240 ml) milk or buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients.
- Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
Fold in the Blueberries
- Gently fold in 1 ½ cups (225 g) fresh or frozen blueberries that have been tossed in flour. This step ensures the blueberries stay evenly distributed and don’t sink to the bottom.
Assemble the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared 9-inch baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the streusel topping over the batter, covering it completely.
Bake the Cake
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- If the topping starts to brown too quickly, cover the cake loosely with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
Cool and Serve
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve warm or at room temperature, paired with coffee or tea.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Warm: Blueberry coffee cake is best enjoyed slightly warm. Heat individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to bring out the flavors.
- Pair with Beverages: Complement the cake with a hot cup of coffee, herbal tea, or a glass of milk for a comforting treat.
- Dessert Upgrade: Transform the coffee cake into a dessert by serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage Advice
- Room Temperature:
- Store the cake in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap.
- It will stay fresh for 2–3 days at room temperature.
- Refrigeration:
- For longer storage, keep the cake in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
- It will remain fresh for up to a week. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes or warm it briefly in the microwave.
- Freezing:
- To freeze, wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil.
- Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
- Thaw frozen slices at room temperature for 30 minutes or warm them in the microwave for a quick snack.
Tips for Reheating
- If reheating from the refrigerator or freezer, use a microwave at low power to warm the cake gently without drying it out.
- For larger portions, reheat in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 10–15 minutes, keeping the cake moist and fresh.
A Sweet Guide to Peach Crumble and More Irresistible Desserts
Peach crumble is a classic dessert that combines the sweet and juicy flavors of ripe peaches with a buttery, golden-brown topping. It’s the perfect treat for summer gatherings or a cozy evening at home. The simplicity of the recipe makes it a great choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
If you’re a fan of fruit-filled desserts, you might also love trying this Easy Triple Berry Crumble With Oats. This recipe brings together the vibrant flavors of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries, topped with a crisp oat crumble for a delightful crunch. For those who enjoy baking with blueberries, don’t miss out on our comprehensive guide to making the Blueberry Coffee Cake. This tender and moist cake, topped with a sweet streusel, pairs perfectly with your morning coffee or an afternoon tea.
Looking for something chilled and tropical? Our no-bake Easy Mango Float is a refreshing dessert made with layers of sweet mangoes, cream, and graham crackers. It’s the ultimate treat for hot summer days.
These recipes offer a variety of flavors and techniques, perfect for anyone looking to expand their dessert repertoire. Each one is easy to follow and ensures that your table will be filled with mouthwatering treats for every occasion.
FAQs
What is the difference between crumble cake and coffee cake?
Crumble cake and coffee cake are similar but differ in their toppings and purpose. Crumble cake has a thicker, denser layer of streusel topping made from butter, sugar, and flour, giving it a crumbly texture. Coffee cake, on the other hand, typically has a lighter crumb topping and is designed to be paired with coffee or tea. The focus of coffee cake is more on its tender texture and flavor, while crumble cake emphasizes the topping.
What makes a coffee cake a coffee cake?
A coffee cake earns its name because it is traditionally served alongside coffee, not because it contains coffee as an ingredient. The hallmark of a coffee cake is its moist, tender crumb and a sweet, often streusel-like topping. Some variations may include nuts, fruits, or spices to enhance the flavor.
How do you increase the flavor of coffee in a cake?
To boost the coffee flavor in a cake, you can:
- Use strong brewed coffee or espresso in place of some of the liquid in the recipe.
- Add espresso powder to the dry ingredients for a concentrated coffee taste.
- Incorporate coffee-flavored extracts or syrups into the batter.
- Pair the coffee flavor with complementary ingredients like cocoa or vanilla to enhance its depth.
What is in a Bakers Treat coffee cake?
Bakers Treat coffee cakes, often found in stores, typically include a moist cake base made with flour, sugar, butter, and eggs, topped with a layer of cinnamon-infused streusel. The exact ingredients may vary by variety, but common flavors include classic cinnamon and other additions like nuts or fruit fillings. These pre-packaged cakes are designed to be convenient, flavorful, and ready to enjoy with a cup of coffee.
Conclusion
Desserts like peach crumble, berry crumble, blueberry coffee cake, and mango float beautifully capture the essence of comfort and indulgence. Their simplicity and rich flavors make them timeless favorites for any occasion. Whether you crave the comforting warmth of baked treats or the refreshing taste of chilled desserts, these recipes consistently deliver a delightful experience with every bite. Moreover, they cater to a variety of preferences, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy. For instance, whether you’re planning a casual family gathering or hosting a more formal celebration, these treats will fit seamlessly into your menu.
From the very first crumbly spoonful to the satisfying last bite, these desserts serve as a beautiful reminder of how fresh ingredients and a touch of creativity can come together to create something truly special. Furthermore, by embracing the joy of both making and sharing these sweet treats, you can create memories that last far beyond the final serving. Consequently, every dessert transforms into more than just a dish—it becomes a cherished moment to savor and share with loved ones.