Blueberry coffee cake holds a special place in the hearts of many, offering a delightful combination of fluffy cake, juicy blueberries, and a crunchy streusel topping. If you've ever searched for the perfect recipe to replicate this mouthwatering delight at home, look no further. This blog post delves into a meticulously crafted Blueberry Coffee Cake recipe, inspired by the renowned blog, Once Upon a Chef. Here, we will guide you through the preparation steps, share tips for perfect results, and explore variations to suit different palates. Whether you're an avid baker or trying this for the first time, this recipe promises a baking experience that could make even the busiest morning feel indulgent.
Why Blueberry Coffee Cake?
Blueberry coffee cake is not just a dessert; it's a tradition, a comfort food, and an expression of love. Here are some reasons why this cake has become a staple:
- Versatility: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this cake can fit into any meal or occasion.
- Simplicity: Despite its impressive outcome, the recipe involves straightforward techniques, making it accessible for all skill levels.
- Nutritional Value: Blueberries bring antioxidant benefits, making this sweet treat somewhat healthier than others.
Ingredients for Blueberry Coffee Cake
Let's start with the list of ingredients that you'll need to create your own Blueberry Coffee Cake:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Butter | 6 tablespoons, softened | Room temperature for easy mixing |
| Sugar | 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons | Divided for cake and streusel |
| Eggs | 2 large | At room temperature |
| All-purpose Flour | 1 1/2 cups | Plus extra for blueberries |
| Baking Powder | 2 teaspoons | Helps the cake rise |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | Enhances flavor |
| Milk | 1/2 cup | Whole milk is preferable |
| Blueberries | 2 1/2 cups (fresh or frozen) | Thaw if using frozen |
| Lemon Zest | 1 tablespoon | Fresh zest adds zing |
| Lemon Juice | 1 teaspoon | For the streusel |
🍰 Note: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Preparation
Prepare your ingredients by measuring them out and bringing any refrigerated items to room temperature. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter and dust lightly with flour.
Making the Cake Batter
Here’s how to mix the batter for your Blueberry Coffee Cake:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 3⁄4 cup sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Add to the butter mixture alternately with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture.
- Fold in the blueberries coated lightly with flour, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
🔍 Note: Tossing blueberries in flour helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking.
Creating the Streusel Topping
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons sugar with 1⁄4 cup flour, a pinch of cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons of cold butter cut into small pieces.
- Rub the mixture with your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Baking
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle the streusel topping over the batter, pressing down slightly.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
🕰️ Note: Ovens vary, so start checking at around 45 minutes to avoid overbaking.
Cooling and Serving
- Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15 minutes before releasing the sides of the springform pan.
- Serve the cake warm or at room temperature. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream for added decadence.
Variations to Consider
While the original recipe is delightful, here are a few variations to explore:
- Almond Blueberry Cake: Add 1⁄4 cup of almond meal to the batter for a nutty flavor.
- Muffins: Adapt the batter into muffins by filling muffin cups and topping with streusel.
- Lemon Glaze: For an extra zing, drizzle with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
In summary, the journey of making a Blueberry Coffee Cake from Once Upon a Chef's recipe is as fulfilling as tasting it. This blog post has outlined every step to ensure your baking experience is smooth and successful. From the importance of this delightful treat to the detailed steps for preparation, and offering variations, we've covered all you need to know. The cake's combination of a tender crumb, sweet blueberries, and crunchy streusel makes it an irresistible choice for any gathering or a quiet moment at home.
Can I use frozen blueberries?
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Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just ensure they are thawed and patted dry to prevent excess moisture from affecting the batter.
How do I store Blueberry Coffee Cake?
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Store the cake at room temperature, covered, for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze well-wrapped slices for up to 3 months.
What can I substitute for lemon zest?
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If you don’t have lemon zest, you can use orange zest for a different but complementary citrus flavor, or you can use lemon extract in a pinch (start with 1⁄4 teaspoon).
Can I make this cake vegan?
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Yes, substitute the butter with vegan butter, use plant-based milk, and replace the eggs with a flax egg or commercial egg replacer.
