Name: Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 65 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1.5 teaspoons baking powder; 1.5 teaspoons baking soda; 0.25 teaspoon salt; 1.5 cups granulated sugar; 0.75 cups unsalted butter (melted and cooled); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 3 large eggs; 2 cups sour cream; 2 cups blueberries; 1 zest lemon; 2 cups granulated sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 zest lemon; 0.75 cups cold unsalted butter (small dice, or grated); 3 cups powdered sugar; 4 tablespoons lemon juice (fresh squeezed); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Introduction to Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake

If you’re on the hunt for a delightful treat to serve at your next brunch gathering, look no further than lemon blueberry coffee cake. This scrumptious cake combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the juicy sweetness of blueberries, making it an ideal choice for those looking to elevate their brunch game. It's perfect for pairing with a steaming cup of coffee or even a refreshing iced tea.

Why Choose a Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake for Your Next Brunch?

This cake not only tastes heavenly, but it also has a stunning visual appeal. Its beautiful light yellow hue, speckled with vibrant blueberries, makes for an eye-catching centerpiece on any table. According to a survey by the Specialty Coffee Association, sweet pastries and coffee are the most popular brunch pairings, and our lemon blueberry coffee cake fits that bill perfectly.

Plus, the easy preparation and baking process allow you to whip it up in about 15 minutes, leaving you more time to enjoy the company of your friends and family. Want to impress without the stress? This lemon blueberry coffee cake is a crowd pleaser that can be made ahead of time, ensuring you can actually relax during brunch. Grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to savor a delightful moment!

Ingredients for Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake

Essential ingredients for the cake

To create a delightful lemon blueberry coffee cake, you'll need some common ingredients that come together to deliver a burst of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

3 cups all-purpose flour: For the base structure of the cake.
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder and baking soda: For that perfect rise.
¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors throughout the cake.
1 ½ cups granulated sugar: For sweetness and moisture.
¾ cup unsalted butter: Melted and cooled, to enrich the cake.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth.
3 large eggs: Provides structure and richness.
2 cups sour cream: Keeps the cake moist and fluffy.
2 cups blueberries: These little gems add sweetness and a lovely burst of flavor.
Zest of 1 lemon: Infuses that delightful citrus aroma.

Ingredients for the crumble topping

The crumble topping gives this cake its signature texture and flavor. Gather these goodies:

2 cups granulated sugar: Combines with flour for sweetness.
2 cups all-purpose flour: Makes the crumble structure.
Zest of 1 lemon: Brightens the topping.
¾ cup cold unsalted butter: Cut into small pieces, for a flaky finish.

Making the glaze

Finish off your lemon blueberry coffee cake with a sweet glaze that ties everything together. You’ll need:

3 cups powdered sugar: For sweetness and a perfect consistency.
4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: The tartness complements the cake's flavors beautifully.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Just a touch for added richness.

With these ingredients in hand, you're ready to create a tea-time treat that will impress friends and family alike! Looking for more ideas on how to make this cake your own? Be sure to check out articles on seasonal fruits to discover what’s fresh and available!

Step-by-step Preparation of Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake

Making a lemon blueberry coffee cake is not just about crafting a delicious treat; it's about creating a delightful experience for yourself and those around you. Let's dive into the step-by-step preparation so you can impress your friends and family with this easy yet flavorful recipe!

Prepping the Oven and Baking Dish

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly. While that's warming up, grab a 9x13 baking dish. Spray the dish with baking spray to prevent any stickiness. Trust me, there's nothing worse than a cake that won’t come out!

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt

This mixture will provide the foundational structure for your cake. Setting it aside allows the leavening agents to activate when combined with the wet ingredients.

Combine Wet Ingredients for the Cake

Now, in a large bowl, whisk together:

1 ½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup melted unsalted butter (make sure it's cooled)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
3 large eggs

Mix these until you achieve a smooth consistency. Next, slowly incorporate half of the flour mixture, stirring until you can no longer see dry patches. Following that, stir in half of the 2 cups of sour cream until the mixture is even. Repeat with the remaining flour and sour cream. This step is crucial for a moist lemon blueberry coffee cake.

Incorporate Blueberries and Lemon Zest

Gently fold in 2 cups of blueberries and the zest of 1 lemon. This will infuse a bright flavor into the cake, balancing the sweetness beautifully. Be sure not to over-mix here; you want those juicy blueberries to remain intact!

Prepare the Crumble Mixture

In a separate large bowl, combine:

2 cups granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
Zest of 1 lemon

Then, add ¾ cup of cold, small-diced butter or grated butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to bring it all together until the mixture resembles wet sand with some pea-sized chunks.

Layering the Cake and Crumble

In your prepared baking dish, spread half of the cake batter evenly on the bottom. Then sprinkle half of the crumble mixture on top. Follow this with the remaining cake batter and finish by sprinkling the last bit of crumble on top.

Baking and Cooling the Coffee Cake

Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 55-65 minutes. It’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool on a wire rack to settle those warm aromas.

Making and Drizzling the Glaze

While your cake cools, whip up a simple glaze by whipping together:

3 cups powdered sugar
4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

A perfect drizzle of this glaze will elevate your lemon blueberry coffee cake, adding that sweet finish.

With this step-by-step guide, you’ll be all set to create a delightful lemon blueberry coffee cake that will wow everyone at your next gathering!

Variations on Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake

Incorporating Other Fruits

While the classic lemon blueberry coffee cake is undeniably delicious, you can play around with flavors by incorporating other fruits! Consider adding fresh raspberries or strawberries for a juicy twist. Peaches lend a lovely sweetness, while cranberries provide a tart contrast. You could even mix in a medley of your favorites for a fruity explosion. Just be sure to adjust the sugar depending on the sweetness of the fruit you choose.

Gluten-Free Alternative Options

For those seeking gluten-free alternatives, fear not! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free blend or almond flour. Many brands offer one-to-one replacements that yield fantastic results. Additionally, make sure your baking powder is labeled gluten-free. If you want to go the extra mile, use a gluten-free sour cream option to keep your lemon blueberry coffee cake fluffy and moist.

These small adjustments can make your cake inclusive for everyone without sacrificing flavor! If you're curious about more gluten-free baking resources, check out sources like the Gluten Intolerance Group for tips and tricks.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake

Using Fresh vs. Frozen Blueberries

When making your lemon blueberry coffee cake, you can use either fresh or frozen blueberries. Fresh berries provide a burst of flavor and vibrant color, while frozen berries are convenient and often just as tasty. If using frozen, be sure to toss them in a bit of flour before adding them to the batter; this helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom.

Achieving the Perfect Crumble Texture

The topping is crucial for a great coffee cake! To achieve that ideal crumble texture, make sure to incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles wet sand with some larger chunks. This way, you’ll get that delightful crunch paired with the tender cake. Using cold butter—either diced or grated—really makes a difference!

By following these tips, your lemon blueberry coffee cake will be a delicious success. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake

Pairing with Homemade Whipped Cream

Elevate your lemon blueberry coffee cake by serving it with a generous dollop of homemade whipped cream. The rich cream balances the cake's citrusy notes and tart blueberries perfectly. Simply whip heavy cream with a dash of vanilla extract and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. This quick and easy addition makes each slice feel indulgent.

Serving Alongside Coffee or Tea

For a delightful morning or afternoon treat, serve your lemon blueberry coffee cake with a steaming cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea. The flavors combine beautifully, creating a cozy experience. Consider a bright citrus-flavored tea to mirror the cake’s zest. It’s a perfect way to unwind while enjoying your favorite baked goods!

For more about pairing beverages with desserts, check out this guide on savory and sweet pairings.

Time Breakdown for Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake

Preparation Time
Start your day on a sweet note with just 15 minutes of prep to gather ingredients and mix your batter. It’s an easy setup that will have you in and out of the kitchen in no time.

Baking Time
Once your cake is in the oven, you can kick back and relax for about 55 to 65 minutes. The aroma of lemon and blueberries will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist peeking!

Total Time
In just 1 hour and 20 minutes, you’ll have your stunning lemon blueberry coffee cake ready to serve. Perfect for brunch or a cozy afternoon treat with friends!

Nutritional Facts for Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake

When indulging in a slice of lemon blueberry coffee cake, it's good to be aware of its nutritional profile.

Calories per serving

Each serving contains approximately 677 calories, making it a satisfying treat for breakfast or dessert.

Carbohydrates and sugars

This cake packs about 98 grams of carbohydrates, with around 60 grams coming from sugars. A delightful balance of sweetness and tang!

Dietary considerations

While delicious, this recipe is not gluten-free or dairy-free, so adjustments may be needed for those with dietary restrictions. Always consider using alternatives like gluten-free flour or non-dairy yogurt to make it fit your lifestyle.

For a deeper dive into nutritional choices, explore resources like Nutrition.gov for more tips and information on healthy eating!

FAQ about Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake

Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This lemon blueberry coffee cake actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. You can prepare it a day in advance, but be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap once it cools to keep it moist and delicious. If you’re planning to serve it for brunch, you can also bake it the night before and warm it gently in the oven before serving.

What if I don't have sour cream?

No worries if you don’t have sour cream on hand! You can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt, which offers a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. Another option is to use a combination of milk and lemon juice—just combine 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

How do I store leftover coffee cake?

To keep your lemon blueberry coffee cake fresh, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can refrigerate it for about a week or freeze it. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn! For best results, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Conclusion on Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake

This lemon blueberry coffee cake is destined to elevate your homemade brunch game. Its delightful balance of bright lemon and luscious blueberries, topped with a sweet crumble, offers a perfect harmony of flavors. Impress your friends and family with this crowd-pleaser at your next gathering!

Why this cake will elevate your homemade brunch game

Bursting with Flavor: The tangy lemon zest combined with juicy blueberries creates a refreshing taste that is sure to delight your guests.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for brunch, dessert, or even a lovely afternoon snack paired with a cup of coffee or herbal tea.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you don’t need to be a baking expert to achieve delicious results.

Adding this lemon blueberry coffee cake to your recipe collection will not only impress your foodie friends but also provide a memorable experience filled with sunshine and sweetness. For more tips on creating the perfect brunch menu, check out this helpful guide on brunch ideas here and explore a range of delicious coffee pairings here.