Introduction
Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake is a delightful treat that combines the zesty freshness of lemon with the sweet burst of blueberries in a moist and tender cake topped with a crunchy cinnamon streusel. This versatile cake is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack with a cup of coffee or tea. Whether you are hosting a gathering or simply craving a homemade baked good, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
History of Coffee Cake
Coffee cake has been a long-standing tradition in many cultures, with recipes evolving over time to suit different tastes and ingredients. Originally, coffee cake was designed to be enjoyed with coffee or tea, typically in the morning or during social gatherings. The addition of fruits like blueberries and citrus flavors such as lemon has brought a modern twist to this classic treat, adding a burst of freshness and tanginess to every bite.
Health Benefits of Blueberries and Lemon
Blueberries are known for their high antioxidant content, which may help improve brain function and protect against chronic diseases. Coupled with the vitamin C-rich lemon, this Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake offers a dose of nutrients alongside its delicious taste. The combination of these two superfoods makes this coffee cake a guilt-free indulgence that you can enjoy any time of day.
What Tools You’ll Need
Baking Equipment
– 9-inch square baking pan
– Mixing bowls (various sizes)
– Whisk
– Mixing spoon
– Offset spatula
– Parchment paper
– Cooling rack
To prepare the Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake efficiently, a 9-inch square baking pan is necessary for baking the cake evenly. Various mixing bowls of different sizes will be helpful to combine the ingredients at different stages of the recipe. A whisk is essential to ensure proper blending of wet and dry ingredients. A mixing spoon is handy for folding in delicate components like blueberries. An offset spatula aids in smoothing the batter evenly in the pan. Parchment paper prevents the cake from sticking to the pan. Finally, a cooling rack is required to cool the cake properly before serving.
Kitchen Utensils
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Zester
– Citrus juicer
– Sifter
– Microplane grater
– Oven mitts
– Kitchen timer
Accurate measurements are crucial, so having measuring cups and spoons on hand is essential for the success of the Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake. A zester will help extract flavorful lemon zest for the cake. A citrus juicer is necessary to obtain fresh lemon juice for the batter. A sifter ensures a smooth and lump-free dry ingredient mixture. A microplane grater is useful for grating nutmeg or other spices. Oven mitts are needed for safely handling hot bakeware. Lastly, a kitchen timer is indispensable for keeping track of baking times accurately.
Ingredients with Detailed Measurements
List of Ingredients
– 1½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ¼ teaspoon baking soda
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
Detailed Measurements
Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9-inch round baking pan. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the sour cream to the wet mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir in the lemon juice and zest until just combined. Gently fold in the fresh blueberries. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool before serving.
Instructions
Preparing the Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake Batter
– Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
– In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
– In a separate large bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy.
– Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition.
– Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and the zest of 1 lemon.
– Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1/2 cup of milk, and stir until just combined.
– Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups of fresh blueberries, being careful not to overmix.
Baking and Serving
– Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
– In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of sugar with the juice of the zested lemon to make a glaze.
– Drizzle the lemon glaze over the batter.
– Bake the coffee cake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
– Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake!
Nutrition Score
Nutrient Breakdown
– The Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake offers a balance of essential nutrients. Blueberries are a rich source of antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, which support immune function and digestion. Lemon zest provides vitamin C, while the calcium and protein in the dairy ingredients contribute to bone health and muscle function.
– Flour and sugar in the cake provide carbohydrates for energy, while eggs offer protein for tissue repair and growth. The butter or oil used adds fats, necessary for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins and providing energy.
Caloric Information
– A typical serving of Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake contains around 300-400 calories, depending on portion size and ingredients used. The calories primarily come from carbohydrates and fats, with a small amount from proteins.
– To balance caloric intake, consider serving the cake with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt for added nutrients and fiber without significantly increasing the calorie count.
In conclusion, the Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake provides a good balance of essential nutrients, offering a tasty treat that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a well-rounded diet.
Serving & Storage
Serving Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake
– Once the Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake has cooled, cut it into slices using a sharp knife.
– Serve the cake slices on individual plates or a platter for a lovely presentation.
– Optionally, you can garnish each slice with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or a few fresh blueberries.
– Pair each slice with a hot cup of coffee or tea to enhance the flavors of the cake.
Storing Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake
– To store leftover Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake, allow it to cool completely.
– Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
– Store the wrapped cake at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
– For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw the cake in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.
Variations
Flour Alternatives
– For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
– Experiment with whole wheat flour for a nuttier texture and a slightly denser coffee cake.
Additional Flavor Twists
– Add a hint of almond extract to the batter for a subtle nutty flavor that complements the lemon and blueberry.
– Sprinkle a streusel topping made of chopped nuts, oats, and brown sugar for extra crunch and flavor.
Whether you opt for a gluten-free version or incorporate almond extract for a flavor boost, these variations will allow you to customize your Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake to suit your taste preferences. Experiment with different combinations to create a coffee cake that is uniquely your own.
FAQs with Most Commonly Asked Questions
Can I substitute the fresh blueberries with frozen ones?
– Yes, you can substitute fresh blueberries with frozen ones in this recipe. However, make sure to thaw and drain the frozen blueberries before using them to prevent excess moisture in the coffee cake.
Is it possible to make this coffee cake ahead of time?
Store the fully cooled Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to make it ahead of time, you can also tightly wrap the cake in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze it for up to 1 month. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Creating a delightful Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake entails attention to detail. By addressing the top questions commonly posed by bakers, you can confidently navigate the intricacies of this delectable recipe.
Conclusion
Indulge in the delightful combination of tangy lemon and burst of blueberries with the heavenly Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake. This recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a versatile treat suitable for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack throughout the day.
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
With the zesty freshness of lemon zest and the juicy sweetness of blueberries, this coffee cake brings together a symphony of flavors in every bite. The crumbly streusel topping adds a delightful crunch that complements the soft and moist cake base, creating a harmonious balance that is simply irresistible.
A Crowd-Pleasing Treat
Whether you are hosting a gathering with friends, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a homemade delight, the Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake is sure to impress. The vibrant colors, inviting aroma, and delectable taste make it a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more.
From its easy preparation to its impressive presentation and delightful taste, this coffee cake is a true gem in the world of baked goods. Elevate your baking repertoire with this recipe and share the joy of this irresistible treat with your loved ones. Enjoy the goodness of lemon and blueberry in every bite of this delightful coffee cake!