Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Creamy & Tangy: The luscious cream cheese layer adds a velvety contrast to the sweet cake and juicy blueberries.

  • Bursting with Flavor: Every bite is packed with fresh (or frozen) blueberries for a fruity explosion.

  • Buttery Crumb Topping: A golden, crunchy topping that perfectly complements the soft cake.

  • Simple & Accessible: Made with pantry staples and easy-to-follow steps—great for bakers of all levels.

  • Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for brunches, potlucks, or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 tsp baking powder

  • ½ tsp baking soda

  • ¼ tsp salt

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

  • ¾ cup granulated sugar

  • 1 large egg

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

  • 1 large egg yolk

  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

For the Blueberry Layer:

  • 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen blueberries

  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (to prevent sinking)

For the Crumb Topping:

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour

  • ¼ cup brown sugar

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon

  • ¼ tsp salt

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, cold & cubed

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

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

  2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

  3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.

  4. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry mix. Stir until just combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Set aside.

Step 4: Prep the Blueberries

Toss blueberries with 1 tbsp flour to prevent them from sinking into the batter.

Step 5: Make the Crumb Topping

  1. In a small bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt.

  2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter (or your fingers) until it resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

  1. Spread half of the cake batter evenly into the prepared pan.

  2. Dollop and spread the cream cheese mixture over the batter.

  3. Evenly scatter the floured blueberries over the cream cheese layer.

  4. Gently spread the remaining cake batter over the blueberries.

  5. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly on top.

Step 7: Bake

  • Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (blueberry juices are okay!).

  • Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Layered Flavors: A perfect balance of tangy cream cheese, sweet blueberries, and buttery crumbs.

  • Moist & Rich: Sour cream keeps the cake ultra-moist.

  • Crispy Crumbs: The cold butter in the topping creates an irresistible crunch.

Variations to Try

  • Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

  • Zesty Twist: Add lemon zest or almond extract for brightness.

  • Berry Swap: Try raspberries, blackberries, or diced strawberries.

  • Spiced Up: A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom adds warmth.

  • Vegan-Friendly: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free cream cheese, and a flax egg substitute.

Tips for Success

✔ Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter until just combined to keep it light and fluffy.
✔ Use Cold Butter for the Crumb Topping: This ensures a crunchy, buttery texture.
✔ Storage: Store at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Serving Ideas

✨ Brunch Favorite: Pair with coffee, tea, or mimosas.
✨ Elegant Dessert: Dust with powdered sugar and serve with whipped cream.
✨ Party-Ready: Add it to a dessert platter alongside cookies and brownies.

Final Thoughts

This Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is the perfect blend of creamy, fruity, and buttery goodness. Whether for a weekend treat, a gathering with loved ones, or just because—this cake is guaranteed to impress.

Have you ever made a crumb cake? Let me know your favorite variations below! 🫐💙