Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

This Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavor of cream cheese with the sweetness of blueberries, all topped with a buttery streusel. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat after dinner, this cake promises to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Its unique blend of flavors and textures makes it a standout option for those special occasions when you want to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of tangy cream cheese and sweet blueberries creates an irresistible taste.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect even for novice bakers.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it at breakfast, as a coffee break snack, or as a dessert after dinner.
• Perfectly Moist Texture: The addition of sour cream ensures every bite is moist and flavorful.
• Streusel Topping Delight: The crumbly topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake underneath.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make following the recipe much smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Baking pan (8×8 inches)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without mess.
• Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless for a fluffy texture.
• Baking pan: A sturdy pan ensures even baking and easy removal of the cake once done.

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 (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 to ensure easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, combine:
1. Beat together the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth. Set aside this mixture for later use.

Step 3: Make the Crumb Topping

In another bowl:
1. Combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Cut in cold butter until you achieve a crumbly texture. Set this aside as well.

Step 4: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy.
2. Add in eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract, then mix in sour cream.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake Layers

Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan:
1. Add the cream cheese mixture on top evenly.
2. Sprinkle fresh or frozen blueberries over the cream cheese layer.
3. Top with remaining batter followed by crumbling streusel topping on top.

Step 6: Bake Your Cake

Bake in preheated oven for 45–50 minutes:
– Check with a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out mostly clean.
– Allow cake to cool completely before slicing into squares.

Enjoy your homemade Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring on your own!

How to Serve Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

This delightful Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or having a quiet afternoon snack, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve slices alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.

Drizzled with Honey

• A light drizzle of honey enhances the sweetness and adds a touch of elegance to each slice.

Paired with Coffee

• This crumb cake is perfect with a hot cup of coffee, making it an excellent choice for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess and a touch of indulgence.

Served Warm

• Enjoying the cake warm straight from the oven brings out the flavors and aromas, making it even more comforting.

How to Perfect Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

To ensure your Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.

• Use Fresh Blueberries: If possible, opt for fresh blueberries as they provide better flavor. If using frozen, add them directly without thawing to avoid excess moisture.

• Adjust Baking Time: Ovens vary; check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. It’s done when a toothpick comes out mostly clean.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

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

1. Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tanginess that balances the sweetness of the cake.

2. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad provides freshness and variety, making it a lively addition to your meal.

3. Scrambled Eggs: Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs offer protein that complements the sweetness of the cake well.

4. Scones: Flaky scones can create an elegant tea-time vibe when served alongside this crumb cake.

5. Chia Seed Pudding: A healthy chia seed pudding adds texture and nutrition while being visually appealing on the plate.

6. Nut Butter Spread: A smear of almond or peanut butter offers richness and depth, making each bite satisfying.

7. Tea Selection: Pair with herbal or black tea for a delightful afternoon break that enhances flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake can be a delightful experience, but it’s essential to steer clear of common mistakes.

• Using cold ingredients – Make sure all your ingredients, especially cream cheese and butter, are at room temperature. This ensures better mixing and a smoother batter.
• Overmixing the batter – Mix your batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the parchment paper – Lining your baking pan with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes for easier removal of the cake once baked.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Use proper measuring cups and spoons for dry and wet ingredients. Accurate measurements are crucial for the right texture and flavor.
• Ignoring baking time – Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Ovens can vary, so check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag; it can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, or it may become tough.
• Stovetop – Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make my Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor, consider adding lemon zest or almond extract to the batter. These additions pair well with blueberries and cream cheese.

Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen blueberries directly in the recipe without thawing them. This helps prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.

What should I serve with Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake?

This crumb cake pairs beautifully with coffee or tea. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

How long does Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake last?

When stored properly, this cake lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator and up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

This Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, you can customize it by adding nuts or different berries. Give this delightful treat a try; it’s bound to impress!