Are you ready to bake something simple and delicious? This Blueberry Crumb Coffee Cake recipe is perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. I’ll walk you through every step, from selecting the best ingredients to serving up the perfect slice. With my tips, you’ll master the crumb topping and avoid common pitfalls. Let’s jump in and create a treat that you’ll want to share with friends and family!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Moist: This coffee cake is incredibly moist thanks to the addition of sour cream, making each bite a delightful experience.
- Fresh Blueberry Flavor: The burst of fresh blueberries throughout the cake adds a sweet and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the crumb topping.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or a snack, this coffee cake fits beautifully into any meal or gathering.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Measurement Details
For this recipe, accurate measurements matter. Use dry measuring cups for flour and oats. For butter, pack it into a standard measuring cup. The granulated sugar should be leveled off for precise amounts. When measuring liquids like sour cream, use a liquid measuring cup. This ensures even baking and a tasty result.
Quality Tips for Ingredients
Always use fresh blueberries for the best flavor. Look for plump, firm berries without any mold. For flour, choose a high-quality all-purpose brand. This will give your cake a good structure. Use real butter, not margarine, for a rich taste. Fresh eggs will add moisture and improve texture. For sour cream, go for full-fat; it adds creaminess to your cake. This attention to quality makes a big difference in your coffee cake.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation and Mixing Instructions
To make this blueberry crumb coffee cake, start by gathering your ingredients. You will need 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter, 2 large eggs, 1 cup of sour cream, and 1 teaspoon each of vanilla extract, baking powder, and baking soda. You also need 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 cup of fresh blueberries, and for the crumb topping, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of rolled oats, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking dish. This step helps prevent sticking.
3. In a large bowl, mix the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat them until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Then add the sour cream and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
5. In another bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir just until combined. Avoid overmixing.
6. Gently fold in the fresh blueberries. Make sure they are spread evenly in the batter.
Baking Instructions
Now it’s time to bake the cake.
1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly.
2. For the crumb topping, mix together the brown sugar, rolled oats, and cinnamon in a small bowl.
3. Add a few tablespoons of melted butter to this mixture. Stir until it looks like wet sand.
4. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter in the dish.
5. Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes. Check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready.
Cooling and Serving Instructions
Once your cake is baked, let it cool.
1. Allow the coffee cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
2. Cut it into squares to serve.
3. For a delightful touch, dust with powdered sugar and add extra blueberries on top.
4. Enjoy it warm with a hot cup of coffee. This combination makes for a perfect breakfast or brunch treat!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Crumb Topping
To make a great crumb topping, you need the right texture. Mix brown sugar, rolled oats, cinnamon, and flour in a bowl. Then, slowly add melted butter. The mix should look like wet sand. This ensures it will bake up nice and crunchy. Make sure to sprinkle it evenly over the batter before baking. This topping adds a sweet crunch that pairs well with the soft cake beneath.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overmixing your batter. When you add the dry ingredients, mix until just combined. If you mix too much, your cake may turn out dense. Another mistake is forgetting to grease the pan. Use butter and flour to prevent sticking. Lastly, don’t skip letting the cake cool before cutting. This helps the cake set and makes serving easier.
Serving Suggestions for Blueberry Crumb Coffee Cake
For the best experience, serve your coffee cake warm. You can dust it with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. Top with extra blueberries for a pop of color. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee for a cozy breakfast or brunch. You can also enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert twist.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Blueberries: For the best flavor and texture, always opt for fresh blueberries. If using frozen, ensure they are thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense coffee cake.
- Let it Cool: Allow the coffee cake to cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.
- Customize the Topping: Feel free to add nuts or coconut to the crumb topping for an extra crunch and flavor boost.
Variations
Substitutes for Blueberries
If you lack blueberries, don’t worry! You can use other fruits. Blackberries, raspberries, or diced strawberries work great. Each fruit brings its own taste. For a tropical twist, try adding diced mango or pineapple. Just keep the same amount as you would for the blueberries.
Flavor Add-Ins and Enhancements
Want to make your coffee cake even better? You can mix in some extras! Chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, add a crunchy texture. A teaspoon of lemon zest brightens the flavors. For a richer taste, consider a bit of almond extract instead of vanilla. You can even fold in chocolate chips for a sweet surprise!
Alternative Topping Ideas
Crumb topping is classic, but you can mix it up! Try a streusel made with crushed nuts and spices. A drizzle of caramel sauce adds a sweet touch. If you prefer a lighter option, sprinkle powdered sugar on top after baking. You could also use a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a sweet finish.
Storage Info
Best Ways to Store Coffee Cake
To keep your blueberry crumb coffee cake fresh, store it in an airtight container. You can leave it at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, the fridge is a safe bet. Just make sure to let it cool completely before storing. This helps prevent sogginess.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze coffee cake for up to three months. First, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer bag. Be sure to squeeze out as much air as possible. If you freeze individual slices, it makes for easy snacks later. Just remember to label the bag with the date!
Reheating Tips for Leftovers
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the cake in the oven for about 10-15 minutes. This warms it through and keeps the crumb topping crispy. If you use the microwave, warm it for about 30 seconds. Check to avoid overheating. Enjoy your warm coffee cake with a sprinkle of powdered sugar!
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries in this recipe. Just remember to do a few things first. Do not thaw them before adding to the batter. This helps keep the blueberries from turning the cake purple. Also, you might need to bake the cake a bit longer. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
How do I know when the coffee cake is done?
To check if the coffee cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. If there is wet batter on the toothpick, bake it a little longer. The edges will also look golden brown when it’s done.
What can I serve with Blueberry Crumb Coffee Cake?
This coffee cake pairs well with a hot cup of coffee or tea. You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Adding fresh blueberries on top makes it look nice and taste even better!
This blog covered how to make delicious Blueberry Crumb Coffee Cake. We explored the key ingredients, precise measurements, and quality tips to ensure great results. I shared step-by-step instructions for preparation, baking, cooling, and serving. Also, I included helpful tips for the perfect crumb topping, common mistakes to avoid, and serving ideas. You can customize recipes with fruit substitutes or flavor enhancements. Lastly, I shared how to store, freeze, and reheat leftovers. Enjoy your baking journey and make this tasty treat a favorite in your hom
