Blueberry Cake

The Buttermilk Blueberry Crumb Cake is a nostalgic, bakery-style dessert that brings together simple ingredients in the most comforting way. A fluffy vanilla cake enriched with buttermilk forms the base, and it’s bursting with juicy blueberries in every bite. The buttery crumb topping adds a delightful crunch and extra sweetness that perfectly contrasts the soft cake beneath.

Topped with a silky vanilla glaze, this cake is not just visually stunning but also wonderfully balanced in flavor. The slight tang from the buttermilk plays well with the sweetness of the berries and glaze. It’s ideal for afternoon tea, a weekend brunch, or as a make-ahead dessert for gatherings. Whether you’re baking for friends or just for yourself, this recipe will make your kitchen smell divine and your taste buds sing.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ¼ tsp baking soda

• ¼ tsp fine sea salt

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ⅔ cup granulated sugar

• 1 egg

• 1 egg yolk

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

• ½ cup buttermilk

• 1 ¼ cups fresh blueberries

Crumb Topping:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• ½ cup light brown sugar

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Vanilla Glaze:

• ¾ cup powdered sugar

• 1 tbsp milk

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking pan.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg, egg yolk, and vanilla, mixing well.

4. Add flour mixture in three additions, alternating with buttermilk. Do not overmix.

5. Fold in the blueberries gently.

6. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.

7. For the crumb topping, mix flour, brown sugar, and butter with a fork until crumbly. Sprinkle over the batter.

8. Bake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

9. Let the cake cool before drizzling with vanilla glaze.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 9 slices

Blueberries and crumb cake are a match made in baking heaven. Add the rich tang of buttermilk and a drizzle of vanilla glaze, and you get something truly special: the Buttermilk Blueberry Crumb Cake. Moist, tender, sweet with bursts of fresh fruit, and crowned with a golden, buttery topping this is a timeless dessert that suits just about any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy weekend brunch, a light afternoon snack, or the sweet ending to a dinner party, this cake delivers every time.

The Appeal of Blueberry Crumb Cake

There’s something universally comforting about a fruit-filled cake. Blueberries, in particular, bring not only a bright, juicy flavor but also a pop of color that makes any dish more inviting. When baked, they burst and release their natural sweetness into the cake, enhancing the soft crumb with ribbons of jammy fruit. Pairing them with a buttermilk base makes the cake incredibly moist and flavorful, and the crumb topping adds a delightful crunch and contrast in texture.

This recipe has all the hallmarks of a home-baked classic: simple ingredients, minimal prep, and exceptional results. It feels nostalgic yet fresh perfect for those who love traditional bakes with a modern touch.

What Makes This Blueberry Cake Special?

One of the standout elements of this recipe is its texture. Thanks to the buttermilk, the crumb is tender and fluffy without being overly dense. The acidic buttermilk reacts with the leavening agents in the batter, helping it rise beautifully and contributing a slight tang that balances the sweetness of the cake and the glaze.

The crumb topping, made with flour, brown sugar, and softened butter, creates a rustic, crunchy layer that contrasts wonderfully with the soft cake underneath. It also gives the cake a warm, caramelized note that deepens the overall flavor.

And then there’s the glaze. A simple mix of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla, the glaze is the finishing touch that ties everything together sweet, glossy, and visually irresistible.

Versatility in Serving

Another reason this cake has become a beloved favorite is its versatility. It’s not overly rich or decadent, which makes it perfect for a variety of serving occasions:

• Breakfast or Brunch: A warm slice with your morning coffee or tea feels indulgent yet appropriate.
• Afternoon Treat: Served with a glass of iced tea or lemonade, it’s a refreshing break during the day.
• Dessert: Top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful end to dinner.
• Potlucks and Parties: It holds its shape well and looks beautiful, making it ideal for sharing at gatherings.

You can serve it warm, at room temperature, or even chilled it tastes fantastic in every form.

Seasonal and Customizable

While fresh blueberries are the star of this version, the recipe is quite adaptable depending on the season and your pantry. You can substitute frozen blueberries if fresh aren’t available; just be sure to bake the cake a little longer if using frozen berries, as they may release more moisture.

Feel like experimenting? Swap the blueberries for blackberries, raspberries, or a mix of all three for a beautiful berry medley. You could even go a more autumnal route with chopped apples and a touch of cinnamon in the crumb topping.

The crumb itself can be enhanced with a handful of chopped nuts walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch and a toasty flavor. And if you’re a citrus fan, adding lemon zest to the batter or glaze gives the cake an extra layer of brightness that pairs beautifully with the blueberries.

Baking Tips for Success

Even though this cake is relatively simple, a few baking tips can help you achieve the best possible results:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps everything blend evenly and ensures a smooth batter.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined to avoid a tough or dry cake.
• Gently Fold in the Blueberries: To keep them from breaking and turning the batter blue, fold them in with a spatula.
• Test with a Toothpick: Baking times can vary, so always test the center with a toothpick or cake tester to make sure it’s done.
• Cool Before Glazing: Let the cake cool completely so the glaze sets nicely instead of melting into the crumb.

Storing and Freezing

This cake keeps well for several days at room temperature if covered tightly. You can also refrigerate it if you want to extend its shelf life a bit. Just bring it to room temperature before serving or give it a quick warm-up in the microwave for that freshly baked feel.

If you want to freeze it, skip the glaze until after thawing. Wrap the cooled, unglazed cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and add the glaze before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

Beyond the wonderful taste and texture, this recipe is a baker’s dream. It comes together with pantry staples, doesn’t require fancy equipment, and feels both indulgent and wholesome. The crumb topping and glaze elevate it from a basic snack cake to something you’ll proudly serve to guests or just savor with a quiet morning coffee.

It’s also a great make-ahead option for hosts. You can bake the entire cake the day before, and it will still taste fresh and moist the next day. Plus, the flavor improves slightly as it sits, allowing the blueberries and vanilla to really shine.

Healthier Twists (Optional)

For those wanting a slightly lighter version, here are a few ideas:

• Reduce the sugar: You can cut back the sugar in both the cake and the glaze slightly without losing flavor.
• Use whole wheat flour: Substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for extra fiber and a nuttier taste.
• Add Greek yogurt: Swapping some of the butter for Greek yogurt can reduce the fat while keeping the cake moist.
• Use coconut sugar: For a refined sugar-free version, coconut sugar can replace brown sugar in the crumb topping.

Conclusion

The Buttermilk Blueberry Crumb Cake is the kind of recipe that becomes a permanent part of your baking repertoire. It’s simple, reliable, and endlessly adaptable while offering the kind of comfort and flavor that makes it feel like a warm hug in every bite. The tangy buttermilk and sweet blueberries are a timeless combo, and the buttery crumb topping with a delicate vanilla glaze adds that special touch.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started in the kitchen, this cake is a must-try. Bake it once, and it will likely become your go-to for family get-togethers, holidays, or any day that could use a little extra sweetness.