Name: Blueberry Breakfast Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (approximately 9 ounces); ½ cup sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 large egg (lightly beaten); ½ cup milk; ¼ cup butter or margarine (softened (NOT melted)); 1 teaspoon grated lemon peel; 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries; ⅓ cup sugar; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; ¼ cup walnuts (finely chopped); ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; 3 tablespoons cold butter or margarine; ½ cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk (more or less to get to a drizzling consistency)

Introduction to Blueberry Breakfast Cake

When it comes to breakfast treats, a blueberry breakfast cake stands out as a delicious and flexible option that’s perfect for busy mornings or leisurely brunches. Imagine starting your day with a slice of moist, fruity goodness that not only tastes delightful but is also easy to whip up in your kitchen. This cake takes a classic breakfast time staple and elevates it to a new level of yum!

Why a Blueberry Breakfast Cake is a Game-Changer

What makes a blueberry breakfast cake such a game-changer? First off, it’s incredibly versatile! Use fresh or frozen blueberries, so you can enjoy this cake any time of year. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some fruit – not just for breakfast but as a sweet snack throughout the day!

Now, you might wonder, how does it fit into a healthy lifestyle? Studies have shown that berries, like blueberries, are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that can boost your immune system and improve overall health. Why not indulge in a treat that's not only tasty but also benefits your well-being? For more insights on the nutritional benefits of blueberries, check out resources like the USDA's nutrition database.

This breakfast cake is more than just a meal; it’s an experience! Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying all by yourself, it brings warmth to any table. So, are you ready to dive into the delightful world of blueberry breakfast cake? Let's get baking!

Ingredients for Blueberry Breakfast Cake

Basic Ingredients for the Cake

To create a delicious blueberry breakfast cake, you'll need some essential ingredients. Gather the following:

2 cups all-purpose flour: This will form the base of your cake.
½ cup sugar: Adds sweetness to balance out the tart blueberries.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures your cake rises beautifully.
1 large egg, lightly beaten: An important binder for your ingredients.
½ cup milk: This keeps the cake moist.
¼ cup softened butter or margarine: Not melted, to keep that perfect texture.
1 teaspoon grated lemon peel: A hint of zest can elevate the flavor.
2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries: The star ingredient that provides bursts of flavor.

Topping Ingredients

For that irresistible crunch on top, gather:

⅓ cup sugar
¼ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup walnuts, finely chopped: If you're a fan of nuts, this adds a delightful texture.
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Just a bit for warmth.
3 tablespoons cold butter or margarine: You’ll want this cold for the best crumb topping.

Optional Drizzle Ingredients

Want to take your blueberry breakfast cake to the next level? Consider adding a drizzle to finish it off:

½ cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk: Adjust as necessary for your desired drizzling consistency.

These ingredients come together to create a breakfast treat that's not just delicious but also a lovely way to start your day! If you’re interested in more ways to incorporate blueberries into your meals, check out this blueberry nutrition article.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Blueberry Breakfast Cake

Creating a delightful blueberry breakfast cake is a wonderful way to start your day. This cake is not only delicious but also easy to whip up. Let’s dive into the preparation process!

Preheat the oven and prepare your pan

First things first: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is at the right temperature when you're ready to bake. While your oven warms up, grab a 9-inch square baking pan and spray it with non-stick cooking spray or grease it lightly. This will help prevent your cake from sticking—nobody wants to lose any deliciousness to the pan!

Combine the dry ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour (about 9 ounces), ½ cup of sugar, and 2 teaspoons of baking powder. Make sure these dry ingredients are well combined. Did you know that the way you measure flour matters? Using the “scoop and sweep” method will help you avoid using too much flour, which can make your cake dense instead of fluffy.

Mix in the wet ingredients

Add in the wet ingredients: 1 lightly beaten large egg, ½ cup of milk, ¼ cup of softened butter (not melted, please!), and 1 teaspoon of grated lemon peel. Now, mix just until the dry ingredients are moistened. You might find it easier to finish mixing with your hands because the batter is quite thick. Don't worry, it’s normal for the batter to feel substantial!

Fold in the blueberries

Next, gently fold in 2 cups of fresh or frozen blueberries. This step can be a bit tricky because of the thick batter, but take your time to ensure the blueberries are evenly distributed. Once done, spread the batter into your greased pan, making sure it’s as even as possible.

Prepare the topping and add it on

For that irresistible crunchy topping, combine ⅓ cup of sugar, ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of finely chopped walnuts, and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon in a small bowl or mini food processor. Add in 3 tablespoons of cold butter and mix until the texture is crumbly. If you're feeling hands-on, use your fingers to crumble it just right. Sprinkle this glorious mixture over the batter you spread in your pan.

Bake to perfection

Pop the pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes. Keep an eye on it, testing for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your blueberry breakfast cake is ready!

Prepare the drizzle (optional)

While your cake is baking, you can whip up a simple drizzle to take it to the next level. Combine ½ cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk. Adjust the milk to achieve your desired drizzling consistency. Once the cake has cooled slightly, drizzle this sugary goodness over the top. It adds a lovely visual appeal and a sweet kick!

With these straightforward steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying breakfast cake that's sure to impress! Enjoy your baking adventure and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or tweaks with us!

Variations of Blueberry Breakfast Cake

Lemon Blueberry Breakfast Cake

If you're looking to brighten up your blueberry breakfast cake, try adding a zesty twist with some lemon. Simply incorporate the zest of one lemon into the batter, enhancing the flavor while keeping it light and refreshing. A splash of lemon juice can spice up the glaze, providing a delightful citrus finish that pairs perfectly with the juicy blueberries.

Gluten-Free Blueberry Breakfast Cake

For those following a gluten-free diet, don't worry! You can enjoy this delectable breakfast cake too. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a mix of gluten-free flour and almond flour. You may also want to add a bit of xanthan gum to mimic the texture of traditional flour. Remember, experimenting with various gluten-free flours can yield unique flavors and textures, so feel free to get creative!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Blueberry Breakfast Cake

Measuring Flour Accurately

When making your blueberry breakfast cake, measuring flour correctly is vital for achieving that perfect texture. Use the "scoop and sweep" method: scoop the flour with a spoon, then level it off with a straight edge. This prevents you from accidentally using too much flour, which can lead to a dense cake. For accuracy, weighing your flour can also help if you have a kitchen scale handy!

Storing Leftovers

Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious blueberry breakfast cake, store any leftovers in an airtight container. You can keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap. This way, you can savor a slice of this delightful cake whenever the craving strikes!

Serving Suggestions for Blueberry Breakfast Cake

Pairing with Yogurt or Turkey Bacon

For a balanced breakfast, serve your blueberry breakfast cake with a dollop of creamy yogurt to add a delicious contrast to the sweetness. Greek yogurt will provide a protein punch, keeping you full longer. Alternatively, complement your cake with crispy turkey bacon; its savory flavor makes for a delightful mix with the fruity sweetness.

Enjoying with Coffee or Tea

Nothing pairs better with your blueberry breakfast cake than a steaming cup of coffee or your favorite herbal tea. The rich notes of coffee harmonize wonderfully with the cake's sweetness, while herbal teas can offer a soothing touch to your morning. Whether at home or on-the-go, this combination elevates your breakfast experience. Want to enhance the moment? Try a splash of almond milk in your coffee for an extra creamy finish.

Time Breakdown for Blueberry Breakfast Cake

Preparation time
Get ready for some tasty baking! You’ll need about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients and whip up the batter.

Baking time
Then, pop your blueberry breakfast cake into the oven for 40 to 45 minutes. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen.

Total time
Overall, you’ll spend about 55 to 60 minutes to have a delightful blueberry treat ready for breakfast or brunch! Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. Dive into this delicious recipe today! For more nutritious breakfast ideas, check out Healthline’s article on healthy breakfast options.

Nutritional Facts of Blueberry Breakfast Cake

Calories per slice

Enjoying a slice of this delicious blueberry breakfast cake means treating yourself without the guilt. Each slice contains about 194 calories, making it a reasonable choice for a morning delight.

Key nutrients

This delightful cake isn't just tasty; it also packs a nutritional punch! Here are some key nutrients found in every slice:

Carbohydrates: 31g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 6g (Saturated Fat: 3g)
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 53mg
Potassium: 107mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 16g

With a touch of vitamins like Vitamin A (200 IU) and iron (1 mg), this cake is a delightful treat that can brighten up your mornings. For more detailed insights, you might want to check out resources on healthy baking practices or nutritional information from well-regarded health sites.

FAQs about Blueberry Breakfast Cake

Can I use frozen blueberries?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work wonderfully in this recipe, making it a perfect option for those who want to whip up a delicious blueberry breakfast cake year-round. Just toss them into the batter straight from the freezer; there's no need to thaw them first. This not only keeps the blueberries juicy but also prevents them from bleeding into the batter.

How should I store the cake?
To keep your delightful blueberry breakfast cake fresh, store it at room temperature, covered, for up to three days. If you want to prolong its life, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just be sure to keep it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.

What milk substitutes can be used?
If you're looking for milk alternatives, you can definitely use almond milk or oat milk with great results. Several readers have shared their success with these substitutes, ensuring your blueberry breakfast cake remains just as moist and flavorful! For more tips on using milk substitutes in baking, check out this helpful guide.

Conclusion on Blueberry Breakfast Cake

Embrace homemade goodness with blueberry breakfast cake! This cake not only offers a delightful taste but lends itself to wholesome, comforting mornings. Perfect with a cup of coffee, it’s a treat that pleases both family and friends. Try this recipe today for a warm, satisfying start to your day!