Blue Ribbon Blueberry Coffee Cake: A Delightful and Award-Winning Dessert

Blue Ribbon Blueberry Coffee Cake is an iconic treat that has won its place at breakfast tables and dessert spreads alike. With its perfect combination of tender crumb, juicy blueberries, and crunchy streusel topping, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, enjoying a quiet morning with coffee, or serving dessert at a family gathering, this recipe is an award-winning option that you’ll turn to time and again.

What makes this coffee cake so special is its simple yet flavorful ingredients. By using fresh or frozen blueberries, high-quality butter, and a perfectly spiced streusel topping, this blueberry coffee cake brings comfort and nostalgia to every bite. To achieve the best results, check out these perfect coffee cake tips, which offer expert guidance on achieving the ideal texture and flavor.

Ingredients for Blue Ribbon Blueberry Coffee Cake

To make this blue ribbon blueberry coffee cake, you’ll need a combination of classic baking ingredients, blueberries, and a rich streusel topping. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter: Unsalted, softened to room temperature.
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: For sweetness in the batter.
• 2 large eggs: At room temperature for easier mixing.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cake.
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures the cake rises properly.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang to the cake.
• 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries: Tossed with 1 tablespoon of flour to prevent sinking.

For the Streusel Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the crumble.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and caramelizes during baking.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth to the topping.
• ½ cup (1 stick) cold butter: Cut into small cubes for a crumbly texture.

Using high-quality ingredients such as fresh blueberries and real butter will elevate your coffee cake to an award-winning level. If you’re using frozen blueberries, make sure to thaw them and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture from affecting the cake’s texture. For more guidance on achieving the perfect streusel, check out this helpful streusel topping recipe.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Blue Ribbon Blueberry Coffee Cake

1. Preparing the Streusel Topping

The streusel is what gives this blueberry coffee cake its signature crunch. It’s easy to prepare and adds both texture and sweetness.

Instructions:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Cut in the Butter: Using a pastry cutter or two forks, cut in the cold butter until the mixture forms pea-sized crumbs. You can also use your fingers, but be careful not to overwork the butter.
3. Chill the Streusel: Place the streusel in the refrigerator while you prepare the cake batter to keep the butter firm.

2. Mixing the Cake Batter

The cake batter for blue ribbon blueberry coffee cake is rich, buttery, and infused with the fresh flavor of blueberries. Here’s how to make it:

Instructions:

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
5. Fold in Blueberries: Toss the blueberries with 1 tablespoon of flour to prevent them from sinking in the batter, then gently fold them into the mixture.

3. Assembling and Baking the Cake

Now that the batter and streusel are ready, it’s time to assemble the cake.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pan: Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Layer the Batter: Spread half of the cake batter evenly in the prepared pan. Sprinkle a small amount of streusel over the top.
3. Add Remaining Batter and Streusel: Spread the remaining batter over the first layer, then top with the rest of the streusel.
4. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

For a lighter texture, make sure not to overmix the batter. Mixing too vigorously can lead to a dense coffee cake instead of a light, tender crumb.

4. Serving and Storing

Serve this delicious blueberry coffee cake warm or at room temperature. It pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal breakfast treat or dessert.

Storing Instructions:

• Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Refrigerate the cake for up to a week if you want to extend its shelf life.
• Freezing: You can also freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a quick treat.

Variations of Blue Ribbon Blueberry Coffee Cake

1. Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake

For a fresh twist, try adding lemon zest and juice to the batter. The lemon flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the blueberries, adding a bright and zesty note to the cake.

Instructions:

• Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the sugar before creaming it with the butter.
• Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice with the buttermilk for a tangy flavor.

2. Gluten-Free Blueberry Coffee Cake

To make a gluten-free version of this cake, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binding agent to help mimic the structure of regular flour.

Instructions:

• Use 2 ¼ cups of a trusted gluten-free flour blend, such as Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour.
• Follow the rest of the recipe as directed.

For more details on creating a gluten-free coffee cake, visit this gluten-free blueberry coffee cake recipe.

3. Almond Streusel Blueberry Coffee Cake

If you love the combination of blueberries and almonds, try adding slivered almonds to the streusel topping for extra crunch and nutty flavor.

Instructions:

• Stir ½ cup of slivered almonds into the streusel topping before sprinkling it over the cake.

FAQs About Blue Ribbon Blueberry Coffee Cake

1. Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before folding them into the batter. This helps prevent extra moisture from affecting the texture of the cake.

2. What is the best way to store this coffee cake?

Store the coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week, or freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.

3. How can I prevent the blueberries from sinking?

To prevent blueberries from sinking, toss them with 1 tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter. This trick helps keep the berries suspended throughout the cake.

4. Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes! You can bake the cake the day before you plan to serve it. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature and, if desired, reheat slices briefly in the microwave before serving.

Conclusion: A Classic and Award-Winning Dessert

This blue ribbon blueberry coffee cake is a dessert that lives up to its reputation. With its tender crumb, bursts of fresh blueberries, and crunchy streusel topping, it’s no wonder this cake is a favorite at competitions and family gatherings alike. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy with your morning coffee, this recipe is sure to impress.

Don’t forget to try the different variations, such as the lemon blueberry or almond streusel versions, to find your perfect combination. For more award-winning coffee cake recipes, visit perfect coffee cake tips and take your baking to the next level!