Brown Sugar Blueberry Coffee Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a new crowd-pleaser to add to your breakfast or brunch rotation, this Brown Sugar Blueberry Coffee Cake Recipe is an absolute winner. With its buttery, tender crumb, a burst of juicy blueberries, and a sweet, cinnamon-spiced streusel topping made from rich brown sugar, every bite is pure comfort and flavor. It’s the kind of cake that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma and invites you to savor a moment of cozy indulgence, whether it’s early morning or afternoon tea time.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this Brown Sugar Blueberry Coffee Cake Recipe are simple staples that come together beautifully to create that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. Each element plays a critical role, whether it’s providing moisture, tenderness, lift, or that vibrant pop of blueberries that makes this cake so special.

• Butter, softened: Adds richness and tender crumb to the cake’s base.
• Brown sugar: Contributes a deep caramel sweetness, crucial for both the batter and the streusel topping.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and add structure.
• Sour cream: Keeps the cake incredibly moist and adds a slight tang for complexity.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation for the cake’s tender texture and structure.
• Baking soda and baking powder: Give the cake its gentle rise and light crumb.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
• Blueberries: Fresh or frozen, these juicy bursts create delightful fruity pockets throughout the cake.
• Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the crumbly streusel topping.
• Melted butter for streusel: Binds the topping ingredients, making them crisp and golden after baking.

How to Make Brown Sugar Blueberry Coffee Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat Oven

First things first, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan. This step ensures your coffee cake will come out easily after baking and keeps the edges perfectly crisp without sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Brown Sugar

Using a mixer, beat the softened butter and 3/4 cup brown sugar together until the mixture becomes fluffy and pale. This aeration is key for creating a light texture in the cake, while the brown sugar adds that signature molasses flavor.

Step 3: Add Eggs, Sour Cream, and Vanilla

Next, incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract. The sour cream keeps the crumb tender and moist, while vanilla warms up the overall flavor profile beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents so your cake rises nicely without any uneven pockets.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet batter, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can develop gluten and make the cake tough, so gentle folding here is your friend.

Step 6: Fold in Blueberries

To keep blueberries from sinking, toss them with a little flour first and then gently fold them into the batter. This spreads the berries evenly and ensures gorgeous fruity bites throughout the cake.

Step 7: Spread Batter in Pan

Pour and even out the batter in your prepared pan with a spatula, creating a smooth surface ready to accept that irresistible streusel topping.

Step 8: Make and Add the Streusel Topping

Mix the topping ingredients: 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup flour, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 3 tablespoons melted butter in a small bowl. Crumble and sprinkle the streusel evenly over the cake batter. This topping will bake into a crunchy, sweet delight.

Step 9: Bake Until Golden

Bake the cake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is a lovely golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma at this stage is simply irresistible and signals the cake is ready.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing. It can be served warm for that melty, fresh-baked feel or at room temperature—the flavor and texture shine either way!

How to Serve Brown Sugar Blueberry Coffee Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of simple glaze can add a pretty finish to your coffee cake. Fresh blueberries or a few sprigs of mint on the side brighten the presentation and hint at the cake’s lovely fruity flavor inside.

Side Dishes

This coffee cake pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea to enhance the cozy morning vibe. You can also serve it alongside a simple fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special brunch treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering slices of this Brown Sugar Blueberry Coffee Cake Recipe with whipped mascarpone and fresh blueberries for a quick and elegant trifle. Alternatively, cut into bars to serve as grab-and-go treats or party finger foods that everyone will ask for again.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate them for up to five days. This keeps the cake moist and fresh without drying out the crumb or topping.

Freezing

You can freeze the coffee cake for longer storage by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge or on the counter for a few hours.

Reheating

To refresh your coffee cake, warm slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or lightly toast them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This revives the soft interior and crisps up the streusel topping beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries for this cake?

Absolutely! Just be sure to toss frozen blueberries in a bit of flour before folding them into the batter to prevent excess moisture from making the cake soggy.

Is there a substitute for sour cream?

You can swap sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk, which also add moisture and tenderness, though the flavor might be slightly tangier.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results. The texture will be nearly identical to the original.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake should be golden brown on top and spring back lightly when touched. The most foolproof test is inserting a toothpick into the center — it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.

Can I double the recipe for a bigger cake?

Definitely! Just double all ingredients and bake in a larger pan, like a 9×13 inch, adjusting the baking time accordingly. Start checking around 40 minutes, as bigger cakes may need more time.

Final Thoughts

There’s something utterly comforting and delightful about this Brown Sugar Blueberry Coffee Cake Recipe that makes it a must-bake whenever you want to fill your home with warmth and sweetness. I can’t wait for you to try it, share it, and make its tender crumb and luscious berries a beloved part of your kitchen traditions.

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