Introduction
Imagine sinking your fork into a perfectly baked slice of Blueberry Bliss Cream Cheese Coffee Cake. The warm, moist cake coupled with the creamy, rich filling and bursts of fresh blueberries creates a breakfast or dessert experience that’s truly indulgent. This recipe is special not only for its delightful flavors but also for its comforting qualities that make it perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts. Whether you’re a blueberry lover or just looking to impress your guests, this cake will surely become a fast favorite!
Overview of the Recipe
This Blueberry Bliss Cream Cheese Coffee Cake is layered with a luscious cream cheese filling that complements the sweet and tart blueberries beautifully. Each bite is a heavenly balance of textures – the soft cake, creamy filling, and a crunchy oat topping. While the preparation involves a few steps, it’s relatively simple, making it perfect for both experienced bakers and novices alike. With a total time of around 1 hour, this cake can serve 8-10 people, making it an ideal choice for sharing.
History and Origin
Coffee cakes hold a special place in culinary history, particularly in American households. While their origins are often debated, it is said that coffee cakes gained popularity in the 19th century, drawing influences from German and Scandinavian baking traditions. Blueberry Bliss Cream Cheese Coffee Cake, in particular, celebrates the seasonal bounty of fresh blueberries, which are a staple in North American summers. This recipe not only carries a sense of nostalgia but also reflects the joy of gathering around the kitchen table with loved ones.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ cup sour cream
– 1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed)
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– ¼ cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 egg yolk
For the Topping:
– ½ cup brown sugar
– ½ cup rolled oats
– ¼ cup all-purpose flour
– ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
– ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
3. Make the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla and sour cream.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in the blueberries.
5. Layering: Spoon half of the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Carefully add the cream cheese filling on top, dolloping it evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top of the cream cheese filling and spread it out gently.
6. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, oats, flour, and cinnamon. Pour the melted butter over the mixture and stir until combined. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the cake.
7. Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into slices and serve warm or at room temperature.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
This delightful cake is best enjoyed with a fresh cup of coffee or a warm cup of tea. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings or as a sweet addition to brunch. Pair it with a light salad or some fresh fruit for a well-rounded meal.
Variations of the Recipe
– Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
– Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil, cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, and sour cream with a plant-based yogurt.
– Different Fruits: Swap blueberries with raspberries, blackberries, or diced peaches for a delicious twist.
Health Benefits and Notes
While this cake is undoubtedly a treat, it does offer some nutritional benefits from the blueberries, which are high in antioxidants and vitamin C. To lighten the recipe, consider reducing the amount of sugar or substituting half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen blueberries?
A: Yes, you can use frozen blueberries; just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter.
Q: How do I know when the cake is done?
A: The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the top is golden brown.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.
Conclusion
The Blueberry Bliss Cream Cheese Coffee Cake is a must-try recipe for anyone seeking a sweet and satisfying dish that brings warmth and comfort. We invite you to give it a try and indulge in its delightful flavors. Don’t forget to share your own experiences and any variations you try – we love hearing from fellow baking enthusiasts! Enjoy your baking!