Blueberry Coffee Cake
Here’s a step-by-step recipe for your blueberry crumble cake using the shopping list we made earlier:
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Blueberry Crumble Cake
Prep time: ~20 min
Bake time: ~45–50 min
Pan: 9x9-inch square or 8-inch round
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1️⃣ Preheat & Prep
• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease your baking pan or line with parchment paper.
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2️⃣ Make the Crumble Topping
• In a bowl, combine ¾ cup flour, ½ cup brown sugar, and 1 tsp cinnamon.
• Cut in 6 tbsp cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until mixture is crumbly.
• Refrigerate while you make the cake batter.
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3️⃣ Prepare Blueberries
• In a small bowl, toss 2 cups blueberries with 1 tsp lemon juice and zest of 1 lemon.
• If berries are very juicy, toss with 1 tbsp flour to prevent sinking.
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4️⃣ Make the Cake Batter
• In a large bowl, whisk together 1½ cups flour, ¾ cup granulated sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, and ¼ tsp salt.
• Add ½ cup softened butter and mix until crumbly (will look sandy).
• Beat in 2 eggs, then stir in ½ cup milk and 1 tsp vanilla until smooth.
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5️⃣ Assemble
• Spread cake batter evenly into the prepared pan.
• Scatter blueberries evenly over the top.
• Sprinkle crumble topping evenly over berries.
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6️⃣ Bake
• Bake for 45–50 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and topping is golden brown.
• Cool at least 20 minutes before slicing.
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7️⃣ Serve
• Optional: Dust with powdered sugar.
• Serve warm or at room temperature. Pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
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If you want, I can give you a quick 1-bowl shortcut version so you can make it with fewer dishes. That one only takes about 10 minutes to get in the oven.
Blueberry crumble cake is a delightful treat that combines juicy blueberries with a buttery, cinnamon-spiced crumble topping and a tender cake base. This dessert not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers nutritional benefits from the antioxidant-rich blueberries, making it a healthier indulgence compared to many other desserts. To enhance your baking success, consider using fresh or frozen blueberries. If using frozen, do not thaw them before adding to prevent excess moisture, which can affect the cake's texture. Tossing the berries in a bit of flour, as mentioned in the recipe, helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom, ensuring an even distribution throughout the cake. For the best crumble topping, ensure your butter is cold when cutting it into the dry ingredients. This technique gives you that desirable crumbly texture. Additionally, you can customize the crumble by adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch. When baking, it's essential to preheat your oven adequately to 350°F (175°C) to achieve even cooking. Use a toothpick inserted into the center to check doneness; it should come out clean when the cake is perfectly baked. Cooling the cake sufficiently before slicing allows the flavors to meld and prevents it from falling apart. Serving suggestions include dusting the cake with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and aesthetics. Pair your blueberry crumble cake with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic dessert experience. This recipe is versatile — it makes an excellent breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or a charming dessert for gatherings. If you're short on time or prefer minimal cleanup, a quick one-bowl shortcut version can be a great alternative. This method typically involves mixing all ingredients in a single bowl and takes about 10 minutes to prepare before baking. Incorporating lemon zest and juice adds brightness that complements the blueberries while balancing the sweetness, a key factor for a fresh and vibrant flavor profile. This detailed approach to blueberry crumble cake ensures a moist, flavorful, and visually appealing result every time.