Blueberry Coffee Cake

The Blueberry Coffee Cake is a delightful fusion of moist, tender cake bursting with juicy blueberries and topped with a crunchy brown sugar streusel. This harmonious blend of textures and flavors makes it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, seeking a comforting dessert, or simply indulging in a sweet moment, this cake fits the bill perfectly. Its balance of sweetness and tartness, coupled with the satisfying crunch of the streusel, ensures it will become a cherished recipe in your collection.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour​

• 1 cup granulated sugar​

• 1 teaspoon baking powder​

• ½ teaspoon baking soda​

• ½ teaspoon salt​

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• 1 cup Greek yogurt​

• 2 large eggs​

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract​

• 1½ cups fresh or frozen blueberries​

For the Streusel Topping:

• ½ cup packed brown sugar​

• ½ cup all-purpose flour​

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon​

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted​

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup powdered sugar​

• 1-2 tablespoons milk​

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract​

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round baking pan.​
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.​
3. In a separate bowl, combine the vegetable oil, Greek yogurt, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.​
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.​
5. Gently fold in the blueberries. If using frozen blueberries, keep them frozen until adding to prevent color bleeding.​
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.​
7. To make the streusel topping, mix together the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a bowl. Add the melted butter and stir until crumbly.​
8. Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the cake batter.​
9. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.​
10. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.​
11. For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake before serving.​

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour​

Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 12 servings

The Ultimate Guide to Blueberry Coffee Cake: History, Benefits, and Why It’s the Best Recipe

The Delicious History of Blueberry Coffee Cake

Blueberry Coffee Cake is a beloved classic in American and European households. Coffee cake itself dates back centuries, originating from the traditional sweet breads of Germany and Scandinavia. These early versions were often enjoyed with coffee, leading to the name “coffee cake.” Over time, coffee cakes evolved into a variety of sweet, crumbly, and moist cakes with different toppings, including streusel, nuts, and fruit. The addition of blueberries became particularly popular in the United States, where wild blueberries are abundant in states like Maine.

The tradition of serving coffee cake during breakfast or brunch grew in the mid-20th century, as home bakers sought recipes that were both comforting and easy to share with guests. Today, blueberry coffee cake remains a staple in many households, celebrated for its balance of sweetness, tartness, and comforting texture.

Why This Blueberry Coffee Cake Recipe is the Best

There are countless versions of blueberry coffee cake, but this particular recipe stands out for several reasons:

1. Perfect Texture: The combination of Greek yogurt and vegetable oil ensures a moist and tender crumb.
2. Balanced Sweetness: Unlike overly sugary cakes, this recipe maintains a perfect balance between the natural tartness of blueberries and the sweetness of the cake and streusel.
3. Delicious Crunch: The brown sugar and cinnamon streusel topping add a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake.
4. Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making this an easy recipe to prepare without needing special ingredients.
5. Versatile: This cake is perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or as an afternoon snack with coffee or tea.

Health Benefits of Blueberries in Coffee Cake

Blueberries aren’t just delicious; they’re also packed with nutrients and antioxidants that offer several health benefits:

• Rich in Antioxidants: Blueberries contain high levels of antioxidants like flavonoids, which help protect your cells from damage.
• Supports Brain Health: Studies have shown that blueberries may improve brain function and delay cognitive decline.
• Promotes Heart Health: Blueberries are known to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Aids Digestion: The fiber in blueberries supports digestive health and keeps your gut in balance.
• Boosts Immunity: Blueberries have vitamins C and K, which help strengthen the immune system.

By adding blueberries to coffee cake, you’re not only enhancing its flavor but also incorporating these health benefits into a delicious treat.

The Secret to a Moist and Fluffy Blueberry Coffee Cake

Achieving the perfect texture in coffee cake can be tricky, but here are a few key tips to ensure success:

• Use Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt adds moisture and a slight tang that complements the sweetness of the cake.
• Do Not Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
• Use Fresh or Frozen Blueberries: If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them before adding to the batter to prevent excess moisture.
• Layer the Blueberries Properly: Lightly coat the blueberries in flour before mixing them into the batter to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
• Evenly Spread the Streusel Topping: A well-distributed streusel ensures every bite has a delicious crunch.

Variations of Blueberry Coffee Cake

While the classic blueberry coffee cake is already irresistible, you can try these fun variations to switch things up:

1. Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice for a bright, citrusy flavor.
2. Almond Blueberry Coffee Cake: Sprinkle slivered almonds on top of the streusel for a nutty crunch.
3. Cinnamon Swirl Blueberry Coffee Cake: Add a cinnamon sugar layer in the middle of the cake for extra warmth and spice.
4. Gluten-Free Blueberry Coffee Cake: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
5. Vegan Blueberry Coffee Cake: Substitute Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt and use a flax egg instead of regular eggs.

Serving Suggestions

Blueberry coffee cake is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:

• Enjoy it warm with a drizzle of vanilla glaze for extra sweetness.
• Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack.
• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Bring it to brunch gatherings, baby showers, or picnics as a crowd-pleasing treat.

How to Store and Keep Blueberry Coffee Cake Fresh

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store your blueberry coffee cake for maximum freshness:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep it in the fridge for up to a week for extended freshness.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a warm treat.

Conclusion

Blueberry coffee cake is a classic recipe that combines the best flavors and textures in one delicious slice. Whether you’re a fan of nostalgic homemade treats, looking for a healthy twist, or simply want a foolproof dessert for any occasion, this recipe is a must-try. With its irresistible streusel topping, moist cake, and bursts of juicy blueberries, it’s no wonder why this coffee cake remains a favorite among bakers and food lovers alike. Now that you have all the details on this ultimate blueberry coffee cake, it’s time to head to the kitchen and bake your own. Enjoy every bite!