Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

This Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is a delightful treat that perfectly balances the rich flavor of cream cheese, the sweetness of juicy blueberries, and a heavenly crumb topping. It’s ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a comforting dessert. This cake stands out for its moist texture and the delicious combination of ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The mix of tangy cream cheese and fresh blueberries creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for breakfast, brunch gatherings, or as a satisfying dessert after dinner.
• Easy to Make: Simple instructions mean you can whip this cake up quickly, even on busy mornings.
• Moist Texture: The addition of sour cream ensures the cake stays moist and tender throughout.
• Beautiful Presentation: The crumb topping adds an appealing texture and makes for a stunning display on any table.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake, you’ll need some essential tools to help streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 8×8-inch baking pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar or mixing batter.
• Mixing bowls: Allows for organized preparation by keeping ingredients separated until they are combined.
• Rubber spatula: Ensures you can scrape down the sides of bowls for thorough mixing, preventing clumps.

Ingredients

For the Cake Base

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling

• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (if frozen, do not thaw)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
• 1 large egg (for filling)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)

For the Crumb Topping

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for topping)
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

How to Make Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth. Set this mixture aside for later.

Step 3: Make the Crumb Topping

In another bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the crumb topping. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Mix the Cake Batter

Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract. Mix in sour cream until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake Layers

Spread half of the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Pour the cream cheese mixture over this layer. Sprinkle blueberries on top of the cream cheese layer before adding the remaining batter. Finally, top with your crumb topping.

Step 7: Bake It Up!

Bake in your preheated oven for about 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. Let it cool completely before slicing into squares to serve.

Enjoy your homemade Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake!

How to Serve Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

This delightful Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is versatile and can be served in many ways. Whether for breakfast, a sweet snack, or dessert, here are some suggestions to elevate your serving experience.

For Breakfast

• Fresh Fruit: Pair the crumb cake with a side of mixed fresh fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or sliced bananas for a colorful and nutritious start to your day.
• Greek Yogurt: Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt on the side for added creaminess and protein.

With Coffee

• Brewed Coffee: Enjoy a slice of crumb cake alongside a hot cup of coffee to enhance the flavors and enjoy a cozy vibe.
• Iced Coffee: For warmer days, iced coffee complements the sweetness of the cake perfectly.

As Dessert

• Whipped Cream: Top each slice with freshly whipped cream for an indulgent treat that adds lightness.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of melted chocolate over the top can satisfy your chocolate cravings and elevate presentation.

How to Perfect Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

Creating the perfect Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out wonderfully every time.

• Use Fresh Blueberries: Fresh blueberries yield better flavor and texture. If using frozen, do not thaw them as it can make the batter too wet.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure ingredients like cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and better incorporation into the batter.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix until just combined to keep the cake tender and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Check Doneness Early: Start checking your cake 5 minutes before the recommended baking time. This prevents overbaking and dryness.
• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing for clean cuts and better shape retention.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake can create a more complete meal or snack experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
2. Cottage Cheese: The creamy texture complements the crumb cake while adding protein.
3. Granola Parfait: Layer granola with yogurt for a crunchy contrast that’s satisfying and nutritious.
4. Tea Selection: Offer a range of herbal teas that enhance the flavors without overwhelming them.
5. Chia Seed Pudding: A light pudding made with almond milk can add healthy fats and fiber.
6. Nut Mixes: A small bowl of mixed nuts provides crunchiness and healthy fats that pair well with sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking this Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.

• Boldly measuring ingredients – Accurate measurement is crucial. Use standard measuring cups and spoons, and avoid estimating. This helps achieve the right texture and flavor balance.
• Ignoring ingredient temperature – Using cold ingredients can lead to a dense cake. Bring butter and cream cheese to room temperature for better incorporation and fluffiness.
• Overmixing the batter – Overmixing can create a tough crumb. Mix until just combined to keep your cake light and airy.
• Skipping the cooling time – Allowing your cake to cool completely helps set the filling and makes slicing easier. Patience pays off for the best results!
• Not testing for doneness – Relying solely on baking time may result in an undercooked or overbaked cake. Use a toothpick to check—if it comes out mostly clean, your cake is ready.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the cake at room temperature for up to 2 hours before refrigerating.

Freezing Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat slices on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses some common queries about the Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake.

Can I use frozen blueberries in Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries without thawing them. Just add them directly into the batter for great results!

How do I ensure my crumb topping is crunchy?

To achieve a crunchy topping, make sure to use cold butter when mixing. This creates a crumbly texture that bakes up beautifully.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can use plain yogurt or buttermilk as an alternative. Both options provide similar moisture and tanginess.

How long does Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake last?

When stored properly, it lasts about 3 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

The Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion—from breakfast to dessert. Feel free to customize with different berries or nuts based on your preference!