Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake

About Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake

Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake is a luscious dessert that elegantly marries the creamy richness of cheesecake with the delightful sweetness of fresh blueberries, all topped with a buttery crumbly topping. The result is a cake that is not only visually appealing but also a perfect balance of flavors—a creamy vanilla cheesecake, a refreshing burst of blueberry, and a crunchy, sweet crumble. This dessert is a true crowd-pleaser and is perfect for various occasions, from potlucks and family gatherings to casual weeknight desserts and special holiday celebrations.

this recipe

What You’ll Need for Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake

Complete Ingredients List

For the Cake Layer:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh blueberries

For the Crumb Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Replace cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese and use dairy-free yogurt as a substitute for sour cream.
• Low-Sugar: Use a sugar substitute suitable for baking, or reduce sugar in the cake layer and cheesecake filling for a lighter version.
• Flavor Variations: Consider swapping blueberries with raspberries or blackberries for a different fruity twist, or add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cheesecake layer for a zesty touch.

How to Make Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake

Making Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake is a straightforward process, but the layers deserve attention to detail for the best flavor and texture.

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layer

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, and then add the vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the sour cream until just combined.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In another bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing just until combined. Gently fold in the fresh blueberries, taking care not to mash them.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9-inch square or round cake pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper. Spread half of the cake batter evenly in the bottom of the pan. Layer the cheesecake filling over the cake batter, spreading it out evenly. Finally, dollop the remaining cake batter over the cheesecake layer, using a spatula to smooth it as best as you can.

Step 4: Prepare the Crumb Topping

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and mix with a fork until you achieve a crumbly texture. Sprinkle the crumb mixture generously over the top of the assembled cake.

Step 5: Bake

Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (some moist crumbs are acceptable). Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions for Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake

How to Serve Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake

Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or chilled, depending on your preference. For serving, consider cutting it into squares for easy handling. A sharp knife or cake slicer can help create clean cuts.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

This delightful cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or a dollop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. Drizzling with homemade blueberry sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can further enhance its presentation.

Storing & Preserving Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake

Best Storage Methods

To maximize freshness, store leftover Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for 1-2 days. However, it is recommended to refrigerate it if you plan to keep it longer, where it can last for up to one week.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

To reheat, gently warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or until just warmed through. If freezing, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, storing them for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, defrost in the refrigerator overnight.

Tips for Perfect Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Overmixing: Be cautious not to overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients; this can create a dense cake.
• Incorporating Too Many Berries: Adding an excess of blueberries can weigh down the batter or cause it to become soggy. Stick to the recommended amount to maintain the cake’s integrity.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing the cake to cool adequately prevents the cheesecake layer from collapsing.

Helpful Tricks for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature for better incorporation and a smoother filling.
• Use Fresh Blueberries: If possible, opt for fresh blueberries rather than frozen to maintain the best texture. Frozen berries can result in a soggy cake.
• Baking Pan Liner: Using parchment paper to line the bottom of the baking pan also eases removal and cleanup.

Fun Variations of Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

Feel free to enhance the recipe by incorporating different flavor elements. Adding lemon zest to the cheesecake layer offers a refreshing citrus twist. You can also fold in white chocolate chips for indulgent pockets of sweetness, or scatter finely chopped nuts over the crumb topping for added crunch.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flaxseed eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg), use plant-based yogurt, and replace cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative. For a keto-friendly option, use almond or coconut flour and a keto sweetener to reduce the sugar content significantly.

FAQs

What If My Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake Doesn’t Turn Out Right?

Some common issues might include a dry cake or one that fails to rise. To troubleshoot, check your measurements carefully and ensure that your leavening agents (baking powder/soda) are fresh. If it’s too dry, it could be due to overbaking; reduce the baking time slightly.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Yes! The Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake can be prepared in advance, preferably a day before serving. Store it covered in the refrigerator, and let it come to room temperature before serving to enhance its flavors.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

You can swap sugar with a sugar alternative like Stevia for a lighter, sugar-free version. If you don’t have all-purpose flour, oat flour or almond flour can serve as replacements, adjusting the moisture levels as necessary.

In conclusion, Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake is a delightful dessert that elevates any gathering or holiday celebration. Its enticing combination of flavors and textures—creamy cheesecake, bursting blueberries, and a crunchy crumb topping—make it a standout dish that is easy to prepare and sure to impress. Whether served warm or chilled, this cake will find a special place in your heart and on your table for years to come. So gather your ingredients, follow the straightforward steps, and indulge in a slice of comfort with every bite!

Print