Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

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Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

A buttery cake layered with rich cream cheese, juicy blueberries, and a crisp cinnamon crumb topping—this crumb cake is the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Creamy & Tangy: The cream cheese filling adds a luscious contrast to the fluffy cake.
  • Bursting with Blueberries: Fresh or frozen blueberries provide juicy, sweet-tart flavor in every bite.
  • Irresistible Crumb Topping: Buttery, cinnamon-spiced crumbles create a deliciously crisp texture.
  • Easy to Make: No complicated steps—just mix, layer, and bake.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: A fantastic treat for brunch, gatherings, or a cozy afternoon snack.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Blueberry Layer:

  • 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen blueberries
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (prevents sinking)

For the Crumb Topping:

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the sour cream, mixing just until combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla until smooth. Set aside.

Step 4: Coat the Blueberries

Toss the blueberries with 1 tablespoon of flour to prevent them from sinking in the cake.

Step 5: Make the Crumb Topping

  1. In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
  2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

  1. Spread half of the cake batter evenly in the prepared pan.
  2. Dollop the cream cheese mixture over the batter and gently spread it out.
  3. Sprinkle the blueberries evenly over the cream cheese layer.
  4. Spread the remaining cake batter over the blueberries, smoothing it gently.
  5. Top with the crumb mixture, spreading it evenly.

Step 7: Bake & Cool

Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (some blueberry juices are fine).

Let the cake cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Balanced Layers: The cream cheese filling, juicy blueberries, and buttery crumbs create a perfect contrast.
  • Moist & Tender Cake: Sour cream ensures a soft, rich texture.
  • Crunchy Crumb Topping: Adds a delightful crispness to complement the soft cake.

Variations to Try

  • Lemon Blueberry: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the cake batter for a bright citrus twist.
  • Mixed Berries: Use raspberries, blackberries, or a mix of berries instead of just blueberries.
  • Nutty Crumb Topping: Add ¼ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumb mixture for extra crunch.
  • Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for both the cake and crumb topping.
  • Vegan-Friendly: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free cream cheese, and a flax egg substitute.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
  • Use Cold Butter for the Crumbs: This helps create the best crumbly texture.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Serving Suggestions

  • With a Cup of Coffee or Tea: A cozy morning or afternoon treat.
  • Topped with Whipped Cream: Adds an extra creamy finish.
  • Dusted with Powdered Sugar: A simple yet elegant touch.
  • As a Dessert Platter: Serve alongside cookies, brownies, or fruit tarts for variety.

Final Thoughts

This Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is a delightful combination of rich flavors and textures. Whether served warm for breakfast or as a sweet afternoon indulgence, it’s a cake that brings comfort and joy in every bite.

Have you tried making crumb cakes before? Share your favorite variations and tips below.

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