Blueberry Streusel Coffee Cake

Prepare to delight your senses with an incredibly luscious and universally loved dessert: the Blueberry Crumble Coffee Cake! This masterpiece perfectly marries the comforting appeal of classic coffee cake with the vibrant sweetness of fresh blueberries, making it an ideal choice for a homemade breakfast treat, a delightful brunch centerpiece, or a satisfying afternoon indulgence.

There’s something uniquely inviting about a freshly baked coffee cake, especially one adorned with a golden, buttery crumble and bursting with juicy fruit. Our recipe for Blueberry Crumble Coffee Cake promises a slice of pure joy – simple to make, yet profoundly comforting and irresistibly delicious. It’s the kind of treat that transforms an ordinary morning into a special occasion.

Craving more blueberry inspiration? You’re in the right place! After savoring this delightful coffee cake, consider exploring other fantastic blueberry creations like our Pecan Blueberry Crumble Pie, these Delectable Glazed Blueberry Donuts, or the rich and creamy Ultimate Blueberry Cheesecake Recipe!

Contents

Why This Blueberry Crumble Coffee Cake Will Become Your New Favorite

This isn’t just any coffee cake; it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and wholesome goodness. Every element of this blueberry crumble coffee cake is designed to deliver a truly memorable experience, from its tender crumb to its crunchy topping and the delightful burst of blueberries in every bite.

The Irresistible Allure of Blueberries

Beyond their mouth-watering taste, blueberries are a nutritional powerhouse. Did you know they are frequently ranked among the top antioxidant-rich fruits globally? A single cup of these tiny berries can pack more antioxidants than four servings of spinach! Incorporating them into your baking not only enhances flavor but also adds a beneficial boost to your diet. When these tangy, vibrant berries are baked into a sweet, moist coffee cake, you create a winning combination that’s both deeply satisfying and surprisingly wholesome.

A Symphony of Textures and Flavors

What truly sets this coffee cake apart is its harmonious blend of contrasting elements. The cake itself is incredibly moist and tender, offering a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the fruit. Nestled within are juicy blueberries, which soften and release their sweet-tart juices during baking, creating pockets of fruity delight. Crowned with a golden, buttery, and cinnamon-scented crumble topping, each forkful delivers a delightful crunch that gives way to a soft cake and tender berries. This delightful interplay of textures – soft cake, yielding berries, and crisp streusel – makes it truly unforgettable.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a leisurely weekend brunch, seeking a comforting breakfast on a chilly morning, or simply craving a sweet snack, this blueberry crumble coffee cake fits the bill perfectly. Its homemade goodness and comforting aroma fill your kitchen, making any moment feel a little more special. It’s robust enough to stand on its own as a dessert but light enough to enjoy with your morning coffee or tea. Consider it for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a quiet treat for yourself after a long week.

Essential Ingredients for Your Blueberry Crumble Coffee Cake

Crafting this delightful coffee cake requires a few simple, everyday ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its approachable ingredient list, allowing the natural flavors to shine through. Here’s what you’ll need to create both the heavenly crumble topping and the tender blueberry coffee cake.

For the Irresistible Crumble Streusel Topping

½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
4-5 Tablespoons unsalted butter, slightly melted
¼ teaspoon salt (omit if using salted butter)
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional Additions: ½ cup to 1 cup chopped pecans, walnuts, and/or oats for extra crunch and flavor.

For the Moist and Flavorful Blueberry Coffee Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned into measuring cup and leveled-off
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ cup milk of choice (whole milk, skim milk, or even a non-dairy alternative works beautifully)
2 cups fresh blueberries (or frozen blueberries, do not thaw them)

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Blueberry Crumble Coffee Cake

Baking this coffee cake is a straightforward process, perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Follow these simple steps to create a show-stopping dessert that will impress everyone.

Preparing the Golden Crumble Topping

Begin by melting the butter for the crumble topping and set it aside to cool slightly.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, and ground cinnamon. Ensure they are well combined.
Slowly pour the slightly melted butter into the dry mixture while stirring with a fork. Start with 3-4 tablespoons and gradually add more until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Be careful not to overmix, as this can turn your crumble into a dough-like consistency. For an added textural dimension, fold in chopped pecans, walnuts, or oats (½ cup to 1 cup, or a combination) if desired.
Once prepared, refrigerate the crumble topping until you are ready to use it. This helps maintain its crumbly texture during baking.

Baking the Perfect Blueberry Coffee Cake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position an oven rack in the middle. Prepare a 9-inch square baking pan by greasing it thoroughly with butter or cooking spray.
In a medium bowl, combine the dry cake ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended, then set this mixture aside.
In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together. Cream them until the mixture is light, fluffy, and smooth, which typically takes about 2 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
Stir in the vanilla extract until it is fully combined with the wet ingredients.
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, beating gently after each addition until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.

Gently fold in the fresh or frozen blueberries. It’s important to be gentle here to avoid crushing the berries and coloring the batter too much. Do not over-mix.
Pour the prepared batter into your greased 9-inch square pan and spread it out evenly. Retrieve the chilled crumble topping, break up any large clumps, and generously sprinkle it over the batter.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 20 minutes before serving directly from the pan. This allows the cake to set and prevents it from crumbling when sliced.

Tips for Success: Achieving Bakery-Quality Results

Even though this recipe is straightforward, a few key tips can elevate your blueberry crumble coffee cake from good to truly exceptional.

**Measure Flour Correctly:** Always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge rather than scooping directly from the bag. This prevents over-packing the flour, which can lead to a dry, dense cake.
**Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing the cake batter develops the gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined, especially after adding the flour and milk.
**Softened Butter is Key:** Ensure your butter is properly softened for the cake batter. It should be pliable but still cool to the touch. This allows it to cream properly with the sugar, creating a light and airy texture.
**Fresh vs. Frozen Blueberries:** Both fresh and unthawed frozen blueberries work perfectly. If using frozen, do not thaw them; simply toss them directly into the batter. Thawed berries can release too much moisture and color the batter green.
**Testing for Doneness:** A clean toothpick inserted into the center is the best indicator. If it comes out with wet batter, bake for a few more minutes. If it comes out with moist crumbs, it’s perfect.
**Cooling Time:** Resist the urge to slice into the cake immediately after it comes out of the oven. The 20-minute cooling period allows the cake to set, making it easier to slice cleanly and preventing it from falling apart.

Storing and Freezing Options

This blueberry crumble coffee cake is best enjoyed on the day it’s baked, but leftovers can be saved and enjoyed later.

Storing Leftovers

To keep your coffee cake fresh for a few days, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain its moisture and prevent it from drying out.

Freezing for Later Enjoyment

You can freeze this delicious coffee cake for up to 3 months. Once the cake has completely cooled, wrap it tightly with several layers of aluminum foil and then plastic wrap, or place it in a large freezer-safe bag. To thaw, simply leave it out on the counter overnight. You can gently reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven for a “freshly baked” experience.

Delicious Variations to Try

While the classic blueberry crumble coffee cake is perfect as is, feel free to get creative and experiment with these delightful variations:

**Citrus Zing:** For a brighter, fresh summer vibe, add 1-2 teaspoons of lemon zest or orange zest directly into the cake batter. The citrus perfectly complements the blueberries.
**Mixed Berry Bliss:** Aside from blueberries, you can substitute or combine with other berries like sliced strawberries, blackberries, or raspberries for a delicious mixed-berry crumble coffee cake. Adjust sweetness if using tarter berries.
**Nutty Crunch:** Increase the amount of chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) in the crumble topping, or even mix some into the cake batter for an added layer of texture and flavor.
**Sweet Glaze:** For an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal, drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled cake. Combine 1 cup powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons milk (or lemon juice for a tangy twist) until smooth.
**Spiced Warmth:** Enhance the warmth by adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash more cinnamon to both the crumble and the cake batter, especially during colder months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying blueberry crumble coffee cake:

Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?

Yes, absolutely! Frozen blueberries work wonderfully in this recipe. The key is to add them to the batter without thawing. If you thaw them, they release too much liquid, which can make your cake soggy and turn the batter an unappealing color. Toss them in gently while still frozen.

What kind of milk should I use for the coffee cake?

You can use any milk you prefer! Whole milk will give the richest, most tender cake, but 2%, skim, or even non-dairy milks like almond milk or soy milk will also work well, slightly altering the texture but still yielding a delicious result.

Can I make this coffee cake gluten-free?

While this recipe is written for all-purpose flour, you can often adapt it to be gluten-free by using a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Results may vary slightly in texture, but many bakers have success with such substitutions.

Is coffee cake served with coffee?

Traditionally, coffee cake is a moist, sweet cake intended to be eaten with coffee or tea, usually for breakfast or brunch. It doesn’t typically contain coffee as an ingredient (though some variations might), but rather is a companion to the beverage. However, it’s equally delightful on its own or as a dessert.

Concluding Thoughts

So, are you ready to wake up to the warm and inviting aroma of a freshly baked blueberry crumble coffee cake? This dessert offers an unparalleled blend of sweet, tart, and comforting flavors, making every morning feel like a special occasion. From its irresistibly sweet and buttery crumb topping to the burst of juicy blueberries in every bite, this cake truly brings together the best of both worlds: a classic blueberry coffee cake elevated by a delightful streusel. It’s an easy, homemade treat that promises to satisfy your sweet tooth and bring smiles to your family’s faces.

Go forth, bake, and spread the joy of this amazing blueberry coffee cake. Your family and friends will undoubtedly thank you! Share your creations and connect with us on Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook!

Explore More Blueberry & Coffee Cake Delights!

If you’ve fallen in love with this recipe, be sure to check out these other fantastic creations:

Blueberry Lemon Bliss Cheesecake Bars
Lemon Blueberry Bundt Cake
Soft Lemon & Blueberry Explosion Cookies
Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumble Bars
Blueberry Streusel Coffee Cake
Buttermilk Blueberry Explosion Cake
25 Buzz-Worthy Blueberry Desserts to Bake
Homemade Blueberry Cobbler

Blueberry Crumble Coffee Cake Recipe

Blueberry Crumble Coffee Cake

By Kim Lange

This mouth-watering, delicious, and popular Blueberry Crumble Coffee Cake is perfect when you are craving an easy, homemade, comforting breakfast treat!

Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Servings: 12 Servings
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Keyword: blueberry, cake, coffee cake, crumble

Ingredients for Crumble Topping

½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
4-5 Tablespoons unsalted butter, slightly melted
¼ teaspoon salt (omit if using salted butter)
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional Additions: ½ cup to 1 cup chopped pecans, walnuts, and/or oats

Ingredients for Blueberry Coffee Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned into measuring cup and leveled-off
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ cup milk of choice
2 cups fresh blueberries or unthawed frozen blueberries

Instructions for Crumble Topping

Melt butter, set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugars, and cinnamon.
Slowly pour the melted butter in as you stir the mixture with a fork. Start with 3-4 Tablespoons and add more until it looks like crumbles. Avoid overmixing. Add optional chopped pecans, walnuts, or oats for crunch.
Refrigerate until ready to use.

Instructions for Blueberry Coffee Cake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the oven rack in the middle. Grease a 9-inch square pan with butter or cooking spray.
In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes).
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Scrape the sides of the bowl with a spatula.
Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with the milk, beating gently until just combined.
Gently fold in the fresh or frozen blueberries, taking care not to over-mix.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Break up the chilled crumble topping and sprinkle it generously over the batter.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool on a rack for about 20 minutes before serving from the pan.

Notes on Storage

To enjoy this cake at its freshest, consume it on the same day it’s made. Leftovers can be stored for a few days by wrapping the coffee cake in foil or placing it in an airtight container at room temperature.

Freezing Blueberry Coffee Cake: Freeze this coffee cake for up to 3 months. Once cooled completely, wrap it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap, or place it in a large freezer bag. Thaw overnight on the counter before eating.