Classic Blueberry Buckle is a deliciously tender and moist coffee cake loaded with juicy blueberries and topped with a buttery, crumbly streusel. It’s a delightful dessert that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. The name “buckle” refers to the way the cake buckles and crumbles around the juicy fruit as it bakes, creating a homey, rustic look that everyone loves.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Cake
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Fold in Blueberries
Gently fold the blueberries into the batter until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Pour Batter into Pan
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Step 7: Make the Streusel Topping
In a small bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 8: Top the Cake and Bake
Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow the Blueberry Buckle to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cook Notes
- Blueberries: If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them before adding to the batter to avoid extra moisture that could make the cake soggy.
- Butter: Make sure to use cold butter for the streusel topping to achieve a crumbly texture.
- Milk: Whole milk works best for a tender cake, but you can substitute with 2% milk if needed.
Variations
1. Lemon Blueberry Buckle
Add 1 tablespoon lemon zest to the cake batter for a bright citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with the blueberries.
2. Mixed Berry Buckle
Use a combination of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a mixed berry version that’s extra fruity.
3. Almond Streusel Topping
Add 1/4 cup sliced almonds to the streusel topping for a nutty crunch that complements the blueberries.
Serving Suggestions
- Whipped Cream: Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Ice Cream: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of hot and cold.
- Coffee or Tea: Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Blueberry Buckle Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the Blueberry Buckle up to 1 day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature. The flavors develop and meld together, making it even tastier the next day.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Blueberry Buckle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to 5 days.
Can I Freeze Blueberry Buckle?
Yes, you can freeze the buckle. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Classic Blueberry Buckle is a wonderfully nostalgic dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its tender cake, juicy blueberries, and crumbly streusel topping, it’s sure to be a favorite for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Try this recipe out, and enjoy the delicious taste of home-baked goodness!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!
