Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

This Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is a delightful treat that combines the creamy tang of cream cheese with the sweetness of blueberries and a crunchy crumb topping. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this cake will impress your family and friends at any gathering. Its unique texture and flavor profile make it stand out among traditional cakes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe features simple steps that are easy to follow, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of creamy cheese and juicy blueberries creates a mouthwatering taste that pairs well with coffee or tea.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this cake warm or cold, as a sweet breakfast treat, a satisfying dessert, or even as an afternoon snack.
• Beautiful Presentation: The lovely layers of cream cheese and blueberries make this cake visually appealing for any occasion.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Serve this cake at brunches, picnics, or celebrations to impress your guests with great flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking the Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8-inch baking pan: This size is perfect for even baking and easy slicing into squares.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve the light and fluffy texture needed for both the batter and cream cheese filling.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding ingredients gently without deflating the 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 (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 for easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Prepare Cream Cheese Filling

In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Set aside while you prepare the batter.

Step 3: Make Crumb Topping

In another bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until you achieve a crumbly texture. Set aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time along with 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 mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Layer Ingredients

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

Step 7: Bake

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

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 enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert, here are some ideas to elevate your experience.

For Breakfast

• With Fresh Fruit – Serve alongside sliced strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
• Yogurt Parfait – Layer pieces of crumb cake with Greek yogurt and berries for a delicious parfait.

As a Dessert

• Whipped Cream Topping – Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra sweetness.
• Chocolate Drizzle – Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cake for an indulgent treat.

Coffee Pairing

• With Coffee – Enjoy a slice with your morning brew; the flavors complement each other perfectly.
• Iced Tea – Pair with sweet iced tea for a refreshing afternoon snack.

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 – Make sure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Do Not Overmix – Mix the batter until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Fresh Blueberries Are Best – If using fresh blueberries, make sure they are plump and firm for optimal flavor.
• Chill the Cream Cheese Mixture – Let the cream cheese filling chill slightly before adding it to prevent it from spreading too much 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. Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy scrambled eggs provide a savory balance to the sweetness of the cake.
2. Fruit Salad – A colorful fruit salad adds freshness and complements the blueberry flavor.
3. Crispy Hash Browns – The crunch of hash browns offers a delightful texture contrast.
4. Cottage Cheese – A serving of cottage cheese adds protein and pairs well with the cake’s sweetness.
5. Granola – Sprinkle granola on top of yogurt served alongside the cake for added crunch.
6. Spiced Chai Latte – The warm spices in chai enhance the flavors of the crumb cake beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and making a Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is no exception. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Skipping the cream cheese softening: If you don’t allow the cream cheese to soften, it will be hard to blend smoothly into the filling. Always let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake rather than a light and fluffy texture. Mix just until combined for best results.
• Using thawed frozen blueberries: If you use thawed frozen blueberries, they can make your batter soggy. Instead, use them straight from the freezer to maintain their shape.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, and inaccurate measurements can ruin your cake. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Opening the oven door too soon: Checking on your cake too early can cause it to sink. Wait until at least 40 minutes before opening the oven door.
• Forgetting to cool properly: Slicing into the cake while it’s warm can lead to a messy cut. Allow it to cool completely in the pan before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• The cake will stay fresh for about 3–4 days.

Freezing Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 20-30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and heat for about 5 minutes or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute blueberries with raspberries, blackberries, or chopped strawberries for different flavors.

How do I know when my crumb cake is done?

The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter and filling ahead of time, store them separately in the fridge, then assemble and bake when ready.

What should I serve with Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake?

This crumb cake pairs beautifully with coffee or tea, making it great for brunch or dessert!

Final Thoughts

This Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite berries or add nuts for an extra crunch. Give this recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!