A Classic Blueberry Buckle is a timeless, tender cake loaded with juicy blueberries and topped with a buttery, cinnamon-scented streusel crumble. The name “buckle” comes from the way the cake buckles and cracks as it bakes, creating a rustic, charming dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a breakfast treat, a coffee cake, or a sweet ending to a meal, this blueberry buckle is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Blueberry Buckle
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
For the Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Instructions
Make the Cake
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
- Add the Blueberries: Gently fold in the blueberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Spread in Pan: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Make the Streusel Topping
- Prepare the Streusel: In a small bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the Topping: Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the cake batter.
Bake the Buckle
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Allow the buckle to cool in the pan on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Tips for Perfect Blueberry Buckle
- Use Fresh or Frozen Blueberries: If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them before adding to the batter to avoid excess moisture.
- Coat the Blueberries in Flour: Tossing the blueberries in a little flour before folding them into the batter can help prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to ensure a tender, fluffy cake.
Recipe Variations
- Mixed Berry Buckle: Substitute half of the blueberries with other berries, like raspberries or blackberries, for a mixed berry version.
- Lemon Blueberry Buckle: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a bright, citrusy twist.
- Nutty Streusel: Add 1/4 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel topping for added crunch.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of fruit instead of blueberries?
A: Yes! This recipe works well with other berries, diced peaches, or even chopped apples. Just be mindful of the moisture content and adjust the baking time if needed.
Q: How do I store Blueberry Buckle?
A: Store the buckle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I make this buckle gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
- With Whipped Cream: Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness.
- With Ice Cream: Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or afternoon tea for a delightful treat.
Classic Blueberry Buckle is a delicious, comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its tender crumb, juicy blueberries, and buttery streusel topping make it a favorite for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Easy to make and full of flavor, this buckle is sure to become a go-to recipe in your home. Give it a try, and enjoy the classic taste of this delightful treat!