Blueberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake
Blueberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake is a delightful combination of flavor and texture that elevates the classic coffee cake into a gourmet treat. Imagine soft, pillowy layers of cake infused with the burst of juicy blueberries and the creamy richness of cream cheese. This scrumptious cake is not just eye-catching with its golden top and vibrant blueberries; it also captivates the senses with its fragrant aroma wafting through your kitchen. Whether you’re preparing it for a family brunch, a coffee date with friends, or a cozy afternoon snack, this cake is sure to impress. The beautiful contrast between the sweet blueberries and the creamy filling, paired with a warm cup of coffee or tea, offers a moment of pure bliss. Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe that’s perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the biggest advantages of this Blueberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake is its easy preparation, making it accessible for both amateur and experienced bakers. With minimal ingredients, you can whip it up quickly, allowing you to indulge in homemade goodness without a long wait. It’s a family-friendly recipe designed to please palates of all ages. Furthermore, the delightful balance of textures—from the moist cake and creamy filling to the crunchy streusel topping—ensures that every bite is a treat. Plus, the use of fresh blueberries guarantees a burst of flavor and sweetness that elevates this dessert to a whole new level.
Ingredients for Blueberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 1 egg white
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the Cake Batter:
- 1 1/4 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 5.5 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 whole egg
- 1 egg yolk
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the Streusel Topping:
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled and diced
Step-by-Step Directions
To start making your Blueberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A crucial step, ensure you thoroughly grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote easy removal.
In a mixing bowl, combine 8 oz. of softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Blend this mixture on medium-low speed until it’s creamy and smooth, creating a rich filling for your coffee cake. Once creamy, incorporate the egg white and mix just until combined.
In a separate bowl, sift together 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. This dry mixture is essential for achieving a light and fluffy cake.
Cream together 5.5 tablespoons of softened butter and 1/2 cup of sugar in another bowl. Once light and fluffy, add one whole egg, one egg yolk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the sifted flour mixture alternately with 3/4 cup of sour cream, blending well between additions to avoid lumps.
Once your batter is smooth and uniform, pour it into the prepared springform pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Gently fold in 1/3 cup of fresh blueberries, allowing bursts of flavor to permeate the batter.
Next, spread the cream cheese mixture over the batter and distribute the remaining blueberries on top. To create the streusel topping, mix together 1/3 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup of flour, and the diced butter until crumbly; sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Now, bake the cake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool on a wire rack before running a knife around the perimeter of the cake and removing it from the pan.
Tips & Tricks
To enhance the flavor profile of your Blueberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the streusel topping for a warm, aromatic twist. You can also substitute different berries if blueberries aren’t available, such as raspberries or chopped strawberries, for a colorful medley.
For a richer flavor, you might opt for a flavored cream cheese, such as vanilla, that would complement the blueberries beautifully. If you’re looking to make mini coffee cakes, simply use a muffin tin instead of a springform pan for individual servings that are perfect for sharing or freezing.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This delightful Blueberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake pairs perfectly with a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea, making it an excellent choice for breakfast or afternoon tea. You may choose to serve it simply dusted with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness, or add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra indulgence.
Another serving idea could be to drizzle some honey or maple syrup over each slice, enhancing the natural sweetness from the blueberries. Serve this cake alongside a fresh fruit salad or a light salad for a beautiful brunch spread that delights both the eyes and the taste buds.
Nutritional Information
While indulging in the deliciousness of Blueberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake, it’s essential to keep an eye on the nutritional information. Each slice is a delightful mix of carbs and proteins, with the fresh blueberries providing a boost of antioxidants. For those indulging, a slice typically contains around 350-400 calories, depending on factors like portion size and serving enhancements.
It’s important to treat this cake as an occasional indulgence rather than an everyday snack to maintain balance. The delightful combination of creaminess and fruitiness certainly makes it worth the treat every now and then!
Storing Tips & Variations for Blueberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake
This coffee cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, it’s best to refrigerate it, where it’ll stay fresh for up to a week.
If you want to freeze the cake, wrap slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm it up in the oven for a few minutes for that freshly-baked taste.
You can also experiment with healthier substitutions, such as using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, or a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake. Feel free to whip up a gluten-free version using gluten-free flour, ensuring that everyone at your table can enjoy this delectable treat.
Conclusion for Blueberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake
Now that you’ve gathered all the inspiration and insights for your Blueberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake, it’s time to head to the kitchen and create this mouthwatering dessert! With its moist texture, rich cream cheese layer, and bursts of blueberry goodness, it’s sure to become a beloved recipe in your collection. Don’t wait any longer; give it a try and delight in the symphony of flavors it brings to your table!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries! Just ensure they are thawed and drained of excess liquid before adding them to the batter.
2. How do I know when the coffee cake is done baking?
To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, the cake is ready.
3. Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare this cake a day in advance and store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
4. What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, consider using mascarpone cheese or ricotta for a different but tasty twist.
5. How can I make my streusel topping crispier?
To achieve a crispier streusel, use cold butter and ensure you don’t over-mix it. This will create larger crumbs that bake up nicely.
