Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful way to brighten up your breakfast or dessert table, let me introduce you to my cherished Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake! This cake is not just a treat; it’s an experience. The creamy filling pairs beautifully with the burst of juicy blueberries, all crowned with a buttery crumb topping that adds the perfect crunch. It’s simply irresistible!

This recipe has become a family favorite for gatherings, lazy weekend brunches, or even those busy weeknights when you want something comforting and delicious. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why I can’t get enough of it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and familiar ingredients, you’ll whip this up in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good blueberry cake, making it perfect for all ages.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert – it fits any occasion!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it in advance and store it for later – it’s just as tasty the next day.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of tangy cream cheese with sweet blueberries is pure bliss!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is a breeze! These are simple, wholesome items you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

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

For the Filling

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

For the 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

Variations

This Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Other Berries: Mix in raspberries or blackberries for a berry medley that’s bursting with flavor.
• Infuse with Citrus: A little lemon or orange zest can brighten up the flavors beautifully.
• Nutty Crunch: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumb topping for an added crunch.
• Swap the Filling: Instead of cream cheese, use ricotta for a lighter texture that still pairs wonderfully with blueberries.

How to Make Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth. This creamy layer is what makes our cake so special. Set it aside while you prepare the batter.

Step 3: Make the Crumb Topping

In another bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. This mixture will give your cake that irresistible streusel topping we all love.

Step 4: Create the Batter

In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla next; they bring moisture and flavor. Finally, mix in sour cream for extra richness.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix this into your wet ingredients. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake tender!

Step 6: Layer It Up!

Spread half of the batter into your prepared pan. Next goes our luscious cream cheese filling topped with blueberries—don’t be shy here! Finish with remaining batter and sprinkle on that delicious crumb topping.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pop your cake in the oven and bake for about 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean. The aroma will fill your kitchen! Allow it to cool completely before slicing into those perfect squares.

Enjoy every bite of this warm Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake—it’s truly comfort food at its best!

Pro Tips for Making Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

Creating the perfect Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is all about attention to detail and a few helpful tricks. Here are some pro tips to ensure your cake turns out absolutely delicious!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter, cream cheese, and eggs to room temperature allows for better mixing, resulting in a fluffier texture and more even baking.

• Don’t overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than the light and airy texture you want.

• Properly measure flour: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents packing too much flour, which can make your cake heavy.

• Check for doneness carefully: Baking times may vary by oven. To ensure your cake is perfectly baked, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs attached.

• Cool completely before slicing: Allowing the cake to cool fully helps it set and makes it easier to slice without crumbling. Patience pays off here!

How to Serve Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

Serving your Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake can elevate its appeal for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it at breakfast or dessert, here are some delightful ways to present this scrumptious treat.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds sweetness and an elegant touch that enhances the cake’s visual appeal.
• Fresh blueberries: Scatter fresh blueberries on top for a pop of color and freshness that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with whipped coconut cream. It adds richness and pairs wonderfully with the tangy cream cheese.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: A dollop of plain or flavored Greek yogurt provides a creamy contrast that balances out the sweetness of the cake while adding protein.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers brightness and acidity that pairs well with the rich crumb cake, making it feel lighter.
• Coffee or tea: A steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances the cozy vibe of this dish, perfect for brunch gatherings or afternoon snacks.
• Nutty granola: Serve alongside some crunchy granola for a delightful texture contrast; its nuttiness complements the blueberries perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake will be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy each delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well, making it a great option for busy mornings or unexpected guests. Here’s how to store it and keep it fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, place the cake in the refrigerator where it will last about a week.
• If you notice any moisture, place a paper towel inside the container to absorb excess moisture.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices of the crumb cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Alternatively, you can freeze the entire cake by wrapping it securely.
• The Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your packages!

Reheating

• To reheat, simply thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or until heated through.
• For a crispy topping, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help as you bake your Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake!

Can I make this Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter and filling ahead of time. Just assemble everything and bake it when you’re ready.

What can I substitute for sour cream in this recipe?

Greek yogurt is a fantastic alternative! It provides similar creaminess and tanginess while keeping your cake deliciously moist.

How long does Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake last?

When stored properly, this delightful cake can last up to 3 days at room temperature or about a week in the refrigerator.

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen blueberries work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure not to thaw them before adding them to your batter.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute dairy ingredients with non-dairy alternatives like coconut cream or almond milk yogurt. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake as much as I do! It’s such a comforting treat, whether shared with friends over coffee or enjoyed on a quiet morning. The combination of creamy filling and berries is simply irresistible. Don’t hesitate to try it out—I’m sure you’ll love every bite!