Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is a delightful dessert that combines a rich, creamy filling with a sweet blueberry topping and a crunchy crumb layer. It’s perfect for any occasion, be it a family gathering or a simple afternoon treat. This cake offers a variety of textures and flavors that keep you coming back for more, making it a beloved recipe in many households.
Why We Love This Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake
This cake stands out for several reasons. First, the creamy layer of cheesecake-style filling enriches each bite, delivering an indulgent taste that perfectly balances the fresh blueberries. The blueberries themselves add a tangy sweetness that brightens the rich flavor of the cream cheese. The crumb topping provides a delightful crunch, creating a pleasing contrast to the creamy and fruity layers.
Additionally, this recipe is not overly complicated, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. You can whip it up for brunch or dessert without needing advanced techniques. The delightful combination of flavors and textures, along with its approachable preparation, makes Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake a staple in any dessert lover’s collection.
Ingredients for Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream to the dry ingredients. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- In a separate bowl, blend the softened cream cheese until creamy and smooth.
- Gently fold in fresh blueberries, lemon juice, and cornstarch into the cream cheese mixture, making sure not to crush the blueberries.
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Spoon the blueberry cream cheese mixture over the batter, spreading it evenly without touching the edges of the pan.
- Top with the remaining batter, smoothing it out gently.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake
To truly enjoy Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake, serve it either warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience by adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A light drizzle of berry sauce made from simmering blueberries with sugar can amplify the flavor and presentation.
If you’re hosting a gathering, slice the cake into wedges and arrange them on a beautiful serving platter. For a more casual affair, cut squares and serve with toothpicks for easy eating. This cake pairs brilliantly with a cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal treat for brunch or afternoon tea.
Feel free to sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for a charming touch, or add fresh mint leaves as a garnish. This cake not only tastes great but can also be a stunning centerpiece for your dessert table, appealing to both the eyes and the palate.
Expert Tips for Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake
For the best results when making Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake, ensure that your ingredients are at room temperature before you start mixing. This allows for better incorporation and a smoother batter. When measuring your flour, scoop it gently into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid a dry cake.
If using frozen blueberries, don’t thaw them beforehand. This can cause them to bleed into the batter and make it too watery. Instead, toss the frozen berries with a little flour before folding them into the cream cheese mixture. This coating helps them stay throughout the cake rather than settling at the bottom.
Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes; ovens can vary significantly. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the last 10–15 minutes of baking. Allow the cake to cool thoroughly to ensure the cream cheese filling sets properly, making it easier to slice and serve neatly.
How to Store Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake
Store Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can stay frozen for up to three months.
When ready to enjoy it, let the frozen cake thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For the best flavor and texture, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds, just until warm, before serving. This method will restore some of the original creaminess of the cake.
Variations of Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake
Get creative with Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake by experimenting with different fruits or flavorings. For a tropical twist, substitute blueberries with diced fresh peaches or mangoes, and add a hint of coconut extract. If you’re a fan of nuts, you can mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch.
Incorporating a swirl of chocolate or a layer of lemon curd can elevate the flavor even further. You might also consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for warmth. Adjust the sugar slightly if substituting with sweeter fruits to maintain the right balance of flavors.
For a different texture, you can use a crumb topping made from a mixture of oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon sprinkled over the top before baking. This variation adds an appealing crunch that complements the creamy filling perfectly.
FAQ about Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake
What makes Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake special?
Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake combines a rich cream cheese filling with a delightful blueberry topping and a crunchy crumb layer, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Can I use frozen blueberries for Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just toss them in a little flour before incorporating them into the cream cheese mixture to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake.
How long does Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake stay fresh?
The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, or frozen for up to three months when tightly wrapped.
What can I serve with Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake?
This cake is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a light drizzle of berry sauce for added flavor.
Can I adjust the sweetness of Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar in the recipe slightly if you prefer a less sweet cake, especially when using sweeter fruits.