Blueberry Muffin Cake

This Blueberry Muffin Cake is a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of blueberry muffins with the moist texture of a cake. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this cake is not only easy to make but also packed with fresh blueberries and topped with a crunchy crumble. Its versatility makes it ideal for gatherings, casual family meals, or simply as a sweet indulgence at any time of day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Moist: The combination of butter and milk creates a tender crumb that’s full of flavor.
• Simple to Prepare: With straightforward ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Occasion Use: Serve it warm for breakfast or at room temperature for dessert; it fits any occasion beautifully.
• Fresh Blueberry Goodness: Each bite bursts with juicy blueberries, making it a fruity delight that’s hard to resist.
• Perfectly Crunchy Topping: The crumb topping adds a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the soft cake underneath.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch springform pan
• Mixing bowls
• Fork or pastry cutter
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Toothpick

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch springform pan: This allows for easy removal of the cake without damaging its structure.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls ensures proper mixing of dry and wet ingredients.
• Whisk: A whisk helps achieve a smooth batter without lumps, essential for a light cake texture.

Ingredients

This Blueberry Muffin Cake is an ALL TIME favorite of mine! It’s soft, loaded with blueberries and topped with the best crunchy crumble!

For the Cake

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup plus 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons butter, room temperature
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup butter, room temperature
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups fresh blueberries

For the Glaze

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 teaspoons milk

How to Make Blueberry Muffin Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot enough when you place your cake inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Springform Pan

Spray a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick spray. This step is crucial to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping

In a medium bowl, combine all the crumble ingredients using a fork or pastry cutter until blended. Set aside for later use.

Step 4: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, mix together all the cake ingredients except the blueberries. Stir until mostly smooth before gently folding in the blueberries.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Spread the cake batter evenly into your prepared pan. Top it off generously with the crumble mixture.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for 40-50 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Remove from Pan

Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. Use a butter knife to loosen the edges before carefully removing the sides of the springform pan.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix together all glaze ingredients until smooth. Drizzle this lovely glaze over your cooled cake.

Step 9: Serve

Serve your Blueberry Muffin Cake warm or at room temperature. Enjoy every delicious bite!

How to Serve Blueberry Muffin Cake

This Blueberry Muffin Cake is perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy breakfast, hosting brunch, or celebrating a special event, here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Serve slices of the cake alongside a bowl of mixed berries for a refreshing contrast.
• Add sliced bananas or peaches for extra sweetness that complements the blueberries.

Enjoy with Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream to add creaminess and richness.
• You can also use flavored whipped cream, like vanilla or almond, to elevate the taste.

Serve with Coffee or Tea

• A warm slice pairs beautifully with coffee or tea, making it a great option for morning gatherings.
• Choose herbal teas for a lighter pairing or rich coffee for a more robust flavor match.

Add Ice Cream on Top

• For dessert lovers, adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top creates a deliciously indulgent treat.
• Try warm cake with cold ice cream for an inviting contrast in temperatures.

Drizzle with Glaze

• Enhance the cake’s flavor by drizzling the homemade glaze over individual pieces just before serving.
• It adds an extra touch of sweetness that balances the tartness of the blueberries.

How to Perfect Blueberry Muffin Cake

To ensure your Blueberry Muffin Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Blueberries: Fresh blueberries provide the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, make sure they’re thawed and drained well to prevent excess moisture.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow butter and eggs to reach room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and better rise.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold in the blueberries after mixing the batter. Overmixing can lead to dense cake rather than light and fluffy textures.
• Check Doneness Early: Start checking your cake 5-10 minutes before the suggested baking time. Every oven is different, so this ensures you don’t overbake it.
• Cool Before Serving: Letting the cake cool slightly in the pan helps it set properly. This makes slicing easier and maintains its structure.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Muffin Cake

When serving Blueberry Muffin Cake, consider these delightful side dishes that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Greek Yogurt: A creamy addition that balances sweetness while adding protein. Serve plain or with honey drizzle.
2. Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits adds color and vibrancy to your table. Consider including melons, berries, and citrus.
3. Sausage Links: Savory sausage links provide a hearty contrast to the sweet cake. Grill or pan-fry them until golden brown.
4. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs offer a savory option that pairs well with sweetness; season simply with salt and pepper.
5. Mimosas: Sparkling mimosas made from orange juice and champagne add a festive touch perfect for brunch gatherings.
6. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese that will pair nicely with both sweet flavors and coffee drinks.
7. Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon enhances flavors and contrasts beautifully with the sweet muffin cake.
8. Tea Sandwiches: Light finger sandwiches filled with cucumber or cream cheese can serve as an elegant side dish during afternoon gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Blueberry Muffin Cake, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can affect the batter’s consistency. Always let them sit out for about 30 minutes before starting.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined and then gently fold in blueberries.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make the cake dry. Spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
• Ignoring baking time: Each oven is different. Start checking for doneness at the lower end of the baking time with a toothpick.
• Forgetting to cool before serving: Cutting into a warm cake can make it crumbly. Allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before removing from the pan.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep it at room temperature if you plan to eat within a day.

Freezing Blueberry Muffin Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Blueberry Muffin Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for about 15-20 seconds; check and repeat if necessary.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Blueberry Muffin Cake.

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just do not thaw them before adding to the batter, as this can lead to excess moisture.

How do I make the crumble topping crunchy?

Make sure your crumble ingredients are well combined with cold butter, which helps create a nice crunch when baked.

Is this recipe suitable for breakfast?

Absolutely! This Blueberry Muffin Cake makes a delightful breakfast option or brunch treat.

Can I substitute other fruits in this cake?

Yes, you can try using raspberries or blackberries for a fruity twist. Adjust sugar based on fruit sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This Blueberry Muffin Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! Whether enjoyed as a dessert or breakfast treat, its soft texture and blueberry flavor will surely impress. Feel free to customize by adding nuts or spices like nutmeg for extra flair!