The kitchen filled with the sweet and fruity aroma of freshly baked blueberries, pulling me back to sun-drenched summers spent berry picking as a child. That nostalgic feeling inspired me to create this delightful Blueberry Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese—a perfect fusion of moist cake, tangy cream cheese filling, and a crunchy crumb topping. Whether you’re waking up to a leisurely weekend brunch or looking for a show-stopping dessert to impress guests, this cake checks all the boxes. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find that whipping up this treat is not only satisfying but also a delicious celebration of summer flavors. Plus, feel free to throw in some pecans for added crunch if you like! Let’s dive into a recipe that’s bound to become a beloved staple in your home.
Why is Blueberry Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavors: The balance of sweet blueberries, creamy filling, and crunchy crumb topping creates a dreamy taste sensation that’s hard to resist.
Versatile option: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this cake suits any occasion, transforming ordinary moments into special ones.
Simplicity: With easy-to-follow steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll whip this cake up in no time, making homemade indulgence accessible for everyone.
Add your twist: Feel free to mix in pecans or experiment with seasonal fruits to personalize your cake.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether you serve it at a gathering or savor it solo, this cake is sure to impress no matter the audience.
For even more delicious ideas, check out our cake variation tips to make this recipe your own!
Ingredients for Blueberry Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese
For the Cake Batter
• Sugar – Sweetness and structure. For a healthier option, consider using coconut sugar.
• Butter (Room Temperature) – Richness and moisture. Can be substituted with margarine or a dairy-free butter.
• Egg – Binding agent and adds moisture. Flax or chia egg can be used for vegan.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and body. Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Baking Powder – Leavening agent, helps the cake rise. Avoid if using self-rising flour.
• Salt – Enhances flavor. Leave out if making a low-sodium version.
• Buttermilk – Adds moisture and helps activate baking powder. Substitute with milk and vinegar or yogurt.
• Fresh Blueberries – Primary flavor. Frozen blueberries can also be used; do not thaw before baking.
For the Cream Cheese Filling
• Cream Cheese (Room Temperature) – Creamy filling. Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter option.
• Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a deep flavor. White sugar can be substituted but will alter taste slightly.
For the Crumb Topping
• Chopped Pecans (Optional) – Adds crunch and flavor to the topping. Can be replaced with almonds or omitted entirely.
How to Make Blueberry Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese
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Prepare the Cake Batter: Start by creaming together butter and sugar until fluffy and light in color. This step usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Then, mix in the beaten egg until fully incorporated.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This will ensure even distribution of the leavening agent throughout your batter.
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Toss Blueberries: In a small bowl, gently coat the fresh blueberries with 2 teaspoons of flour. This prevents them from sinking to the bottom while baking, keeping your cake beautifully layered.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually integrate the dry mixture and buttermilk into the butter-sugar mixture. Stir until just smooth; avoid overmixing. Gently fold in the blueberries and chopped pecans if you’re using them.
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Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. This filling will add a rich layer to your cake.
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Prepare Crumb Topping: In another bowl, mix sugars with flour and cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This topping will add the perfect crunch.
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Assemble the Cake: In a greased 9×9 inch baking pan, spread half of the cake batter evenly. Pour the cream cheese filling over this layer. Next, sprinkle the remaining batter and then top it off with the crumb topping.
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Bake: Place the pan in a preheated oven set to 350°F. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan before slicing into delightful squares.
Optional: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Blueberry Crumb Cake
• Cold Butter for Crumb: Use very cold butter for the crumb topping to achieve a defined, crunchy texture that holds up beautifully.
• Prevent Sinking: Tossing blueberries in flour before adding them to the batter helps prevent them from sinking and maintains a gorgeous layered look.
• Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; it should come out clean. If it’s wet, continue baking a few more minutes.
• Cool Before Slicing: Allow the cake to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing to let the layers set and maintain structure.
• Add Protein: For a nutritional boost, consider adding chopped nuts or seeds into the batter for extra crunch and healthy fats.
What to Serve with Blueberry Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese?
Imagine a delightful spread that elevates your homemade cake into a full-on feast for the senses.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream brings a light, airy touch to each slice, enhancing the creamy filling within.
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Greek Yogurt: A spoonful of tangy Greek yogurt provides a creamy counterpart, perfectly complementing the flavors of the blueberry cake.
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Coffee or Espresso: The rich, bold flavors of coffee contrast with the sweet cake, creating a delightful pairing for morning or mid-afternoon enjoyment.
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Lemonade: A glass of chilled lemonade adds a refreshing zesty note, making it a perfect companion for summer gatherings.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert experience, serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting into the cake.
These pairings will ensure your Blueberry Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese shines on any occasion, making it a centerpiece to remember!
Make Ahead Options
These Blueberry Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese slices are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the cake batter and cream cheese filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain optimal quality and prevent the blueberries from sinking, toss them in flour just before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful cake, layer the batter and cream cheese filling in a greased baking pan, sprinkle with crumb topping, and bake as directed. This ensures you have a delicious homemade treat with minimal effort, ready to impress at breakfast or brunch!
Storage Tips for Blueberry Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese
Room Temperature: Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Ensure it’s wrapped tightly in plastic or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
Freezer: This Blueberry Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in an airtight container; they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw slices in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Blueberry Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and put your personal spin on this delightful cake!
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Berry Swap: Replace blueberries with raspberries or blackberries for a lovely twist on flavor. Each berry brings its own unique sweetness!
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Citrus Zest: Add a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to the batter for a refreshing, bright flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cake.
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Nutty Crunch: If pecans aren’t your thing, try walnuts or almonds in the crumb topping for a different kind of crunch and flavor depth.
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Spiced Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg into the batter to add warmth and depth, elevating your cake to cozy comfort levels.
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Vegan Version: Substitute the egg with a flax or chia egg, and use vegan butter to make this dessert plant-based without sacrificing moisture or taste.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent touch, melt some dark or white chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cake, adding an indulgent sweetness that pairs beautifully.
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Fruity Layers: Add a layer of sliced peaches or strawberries beneath the cream cheese filling for an extra fruity surprise and delightful textures.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to create a delightful version for those with gluten sensitivities while keeping it moist and delicious.
Blueberry Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right blueberries for baking?
Absolutely! Choose fresh blueberries that are plump, firm, and free of dark spots. Avoid any berries that appear shriveled or have mold, as these may spoil the flavor of your cake. If you’re using frozen blueberries, don’t thaw them before adding to the batter; this will help maintain the cake’s structure.
What’s the best way to store leftover Blueberry Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese?
You can store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, place it in the refrigerator where it’ll last up to a week. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Don’t forget to let it cool to room temperature before wrapping to avoid condensation!
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Can I freeze Blueberry Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese?
Very much! To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat them for a warm treat!
What if my cake isn’t rising properly?
If your cake doesn’t rise as expected, check that your baking powder is fresh—if it’s older than six months, it may not work effectively. Also, be sure not to overmix the batter, as that can lead to a denser texture. And always check the oven temperature; an inaccurate oven can affect baking results!
Is this cake suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can make this Blueberry Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese gluten-free by substituting with a gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free options, use a dairy-free butter in the batter and Greek yogurt or a non-dairy cream cheese alternative for the filling.
Can I add other ingredients to the recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add nuts such as chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch in the crumb topping. You can also experiment by replacing blueberries with raspberries or blackberries for a fun twist on flavor, or by adding lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing kick!
Irresistible Blueberry Crumb Cake with Cream Cheese Delight
Ingredients Â
Equipment
MethodÂ
- Prepare the Cake Batter: Cream together butter and sugar until fluffy and light in color, about 3-5 minutes. Mix in the beaten egg until fully incorporated.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Toss Blueberries: Gently coat fresh blueberries with 2 teaspoons of flour to prevent them from sinking.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually mix the dry ingredients and buttermilk into the butter-sugar mixture, stir until just smooth, then fold in blueberries and pecans.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: Blend cream cheese, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
- Prepare Crumb Topping: Mix sugars with flour, cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Assemble the Cake: In a greased pan, spread half the cake batter, pour the cream cheese filling, sprinkle remaining batter, and top with crumb topping.
- Bake: Place in a preheated oven at 350°F and bake for 40-50 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool before slicing.