This Blueberry Streusel Coffee Cake is a treat that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee. It’s fluffy, full of juicy blueberries, and topped with a crunchy streusel for that extra zing!
Who can resist a slice with that sweet and crumbly topping? It’s a cake that makes waking up a little brighter, and I love to serve it warm to friends for a cozy gathering! ☕️💙
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour is your go-to for this cake, giving it structure and lightness. If you need a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free all-purpose blend. I find that it works well without compromising texture.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries bring a juicy burst in each bite. If they’re out of season, you can use frozen blueberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture. I love to sprinkle a few on top for a fresh look!
Sour Cream: This adds moisture and richness to the cake. Greek yogurt can be a great substitute if you’re looking for a healthier option, providing a similar tangy taste. I’ve used both, and they both work nicely!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives control over salt content. If you need to substitute, use margarine or coconut oil, but melted butter is always best for that rich flavor!
How Can I Get the Perfect Crumb for My Streusel Topping?
The streusel topping is what gives this coffee cake its charm, so getting it right is key! Here’s how to make a crunchy and flavorful streusel:
- Use cold butter: Make sure your butter is cold and cubed; this helps create those yummy clumps.
- Mix just enough: Combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt until crumbly, but don’t over-mix! You want texture, not paste.
- Don’t skimp on sprinkling: Generously scatter the streusel on top of the batter. It forms a nice crust while baking.
Following these steps will help you achieve that delightful contrast of soft cake and crunchy topping that makes this coffee cake so special!
How to Bake a Delicious Blueberry Streusel Coffee Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries
For the Streusel Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For Garnish:
- Fresh blueberries
- Powdered sugar (optional)
Time Needed:
This delicious coffee cake will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45-50 minutes to bake, plus a little time to cool down. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 10 minutes before you can enjoy that warm, cozy slice of cake!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when you put the cake in. Grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent the cake from sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step will help ensure that your leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the cake. Once mixed, set it aside for later use.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until it’s light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. This step helps to incorporate air into the batter, making the cake lighter.
4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure to incorporate each egg fully before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and give it a quick mix until everything is smooth.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now, alternately add the dry flour mixture and the sour cream into the butter mixture, starting and finishing with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; don’t over-mix! Gently fold in the blueberries using a spatula to keep them intact.
6. Pour the Batter and Smooth:
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring an even layer. This helps with even baking.
7. Prepare the Streusel Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt for your streusel topping. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
8. Add the Streusel:
Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter in the pan. Don’t be shy! The more crumble, the better!
9. Bake the Cake:
Place your cake in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. When it’s done, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
10. Cool the Cake:
Take the cake out of the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes. This helps it firm up a little bit.
11. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooled, if you’d like, you can dust the top with powdered sugar and add fresh blueberries for a beautiful garnish. Then, slice the cake into squares and enjoy warm or at room temperature with a cup of coffee or tea.
12. Enjoy!
Indulge in the goodness of this moist, tender Blueberry Streusel Coffee Cake with your family and friends. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Frozen Blueberries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen blueberries, be sure to thaw and drain them first to minimize extra moisture in the batter. This will help maintain the cake’s texture and prevent it from becoming soggy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. In warmer climates or during hot weather, it’s best to refrigerate it to preserve freshness, where it can last up to a week.
Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare and bake the cake a day in advance. Just allow it to cool completely, then store it covered at room temperature. If you want to serve it warm, pop it in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes before serving.
How Can I Make This Cake Even More Flavorful?
If you’re looking to enhance the flavor, try adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter or a splash of almond extract for a delightful twist. Both variations complement the blueberries beautifully!