Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crumb Topping:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
• Add the melted butter and mix with a fork until the mixture forms large, crumbly clumps. Set aside.

2. Make the Cake Layer:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan or a square baking dish.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
• Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream or yogurt, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined, being careful not to overmix.
• Spread the cake batter evenly into the prepared pan.

3. Make the Cheesecake Layer:

• In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
• Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
• Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cake layer, spreading it evenly to cover the batter.

4. Add the Blueberry Layer:

• Toss the blueberries with 1 tablespoon of flour to help prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
• Scatter the floured blueberries over the cheesecake layer.

5. Add the Crumb Topping:

• Sprinkle the prepared crumb topping evenly over the blueberries, ensuring the entire surface is covered.

6. Bake the Crumb Cake:

• Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are fine, but there should be no wet batter).
• If the crumb topping starts to brown too quickly, cover the cake loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

7. Cool and Serve:

• Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
• Once cooled, slice and serve. This cake can be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled for a firmer cheesecake texture.

Tips for Making the Best Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake:

1. Use Fresh or Frozen Blueberries: Fresh blueberries work wonderfully in this cake, but if you’re using frozen ones, do not thaw them before adding to the cake. Tossing them with flour helps keep them suspended in the batter, so they don’t sink to the bottom.
2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese, butter, and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps create a smooth batter and a lump-free cheesecake layer.
3. Crumb Topping Texture: The key to the perfect crumb topping is making sure the crumbs are large and clumpy. Mix the topping just enough so that it forms small to medium-sized clumps. If it seems too dry, add a little more melted butter, a tablespoon at a time.
4. Let It Cool: Although it’s tempting to dig in right away, let the cake cool completely before slicing. This allows the cheesecake layer to set properly and ensures clean, even slices.
5. Customize It: You can swap blueberries for other berries like raspberries or blackberries for a different twist. You can also add a drizzle of lemon glaze over the top for extra brightness.

Why You’ll Love This Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake:

• A Perfect Combination: This cake is the best of both worlds – the richness of cheesecake combined with the comforting texture of crumb cake.
• Versatile Dessert: This cake works just as well for a decadent dessert as it does for an indulgent breakfast or brunch treat.
• Burst of Blueberry Goodness: The sweet-tart blueberries offer a burst of fresh flavor that complements the creamy cheesecake and buttery crumb topping.
• Easy to Make Ahead: This crumb cake stores well in the refrigerator and tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert.

Conclusion

Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion, from family gatherings to afternoon tea. With its layers of buttery cake, rich cheesecake, and juicy blueberries, all topped with a sweet crumb, it’s a dessert that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings. The best part? It’s easy to make and can be prepared in advance, so you can enjoy this decadent treat without the stress.

Get ready to indulge in this delightful combination of flavors and textures—you’ll be reaching for seconds!