Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

This Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is an irresistible dessert that combines the tanginess of cream cheese with juicy blueberries and a rich buttery crumb topping. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delicious dessert, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends. Its unique flavor profile and delightful texture make it a standout treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Tangy: The combination of cream cheese and blueberries creates a rich flavor that balances sweetness and tang.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy this cake for breakfast, as a coffee cake during brunch, or as a light dessert after dinner.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this delightful treat.
• Perfect Texture: The buttery crumb topping adds a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the moist cake beneath.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is loved by both kids and adults, making it a great addition to family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into baking, gather the necessary tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking pan (8×8 inches)
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together for a fluffy texture.
• Baking pan: An 8×8-inch pan ensures even baking and helps maintain the cake’s shape.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding ingredients without deflating your batter.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 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
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (if frozen, do not thaw)

For the Cream Cheese Filling

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Crumb Topping

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 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 mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Make the Crumb Topping

In another bowl, combine all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold cubed butter using a pastry cutter or fork until crumbly. Set aside.

Step 4: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar 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

Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Assemble Your Cake

Spread half of the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Pour the cream cheese mixture on top followed by sprinkling fresh or frozen blueberries over it. Finally, dollop on remaining batter before topping with crumb mixture evenly across.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean. Let 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 Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Add a handful of fresh blueberries or strawberries on the side for a burst of color and flavor.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• Serve a dollop of whipped cream on top or alongside the cake to enhance its creamy texture.

Accompanied by Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or afternoon tea for a delightful pairing that complements the cake’s flavors.

Topped with Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or berry-flavored ice cream on warm cake creates a delicious contrast and indulgence.

Drizzled with Honey or Maple Syrup

• A light drizzle of honey or maple syrup can add extra sweetness and richness to each bite.

How to Perfect Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

To ensure your Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to keep the cake tender and prevent it from becoming tough.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid packing too much flour into your batter.
• Chill the Crumb Topping: For extra crunchiness, chill the crumb topping before adding it to the cake. This helps it maintain its texture during baking.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake can enhance its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Greek Yogurt: A bowl of creamy Greek yogurt adds protein and balances the sweetness of the cake nicely.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the cake’s flavors while adding brightness to your plate.
3. Granola: The crunchiness of granola provides textural contrast, making each bite more exciting.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses pairs well with the cake’s sweetness and adds richness to your meal.
5. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats add another layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with blueberries.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: This nutritious option provides a creamy element that enhances the overall dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake, it’s easy to make a few slip-ups. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the cream cheese preparation: Make sure to thoroughly beat the cream cheese mixture until smooth. This prevents lumps in your cake.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of a light crumb.
• Not measuring accurately: Use proper measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients. Inaccurate measurements can affect the cake’s rise and flavor.
• Ignoring the baking time: Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes. Ovens vary, and checking early can prevent overbaking or underbaking.
• Using thawed blueberries: If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them before adding to the batter. This helps keep your cake from becoming too moist.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake slices for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds on medium power until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake.

Can I use other fruits in this crumb cake?

Yes! Feel free to substitute blueberries with raspberries, strawberries, or even chopped peaches for a delicious twist.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Replace cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use non-dairy yogurt instead of sour cream for a tasty version.

What is the best way to store leftover crumb cake?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature if eaten within two days; otherwise, refrigerate or freeze as directed above.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge or freeze it for later baking.

What makes this Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake special?

The combination of tangy cream cheese and juicy blueberries creates a delightful flavor that pairs perfectly with coffee or tea!

Final Thoughts

This Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its delightful blend of flavors makes it perfect for any occasion—from breakfast to dessert. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or different berries according to your taste!