If you love starting your day with something sweet, moist, and packed with bursts of fresh fruit, the Blueberry Buttermilk Breakfast Cake Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful breakfast cake combines tangy buttermilk with juicy blueberries in a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. It bakes up beautifully with a golden top coated in a little crunch of sugar, making each bite a perfect balance of soft, moist cake and fruity brightness. Whether you’re serving it for a weekend brunch or a special weekday treat, this cake brings a cozy comfort to your morning that will quickly become a treasured staple.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Blueberry Buttermilk Breakfast Cake Recipe plays a crucial role, from tenderizing the crumb to adding flavor and texture. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the richness and depth they bring together to make this breakfast cake truly special.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Provides richness and a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
- 1 cup granulated sugar (plus 1 tablespoon for topping): Sweetens the cake and adds a little crunchy crust on top when sprinkled.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the cake together and adds moisture and structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors with a warm, aromatic undertone.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (divided): Forms the base of the cake, giving it strength and texture.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Lifts the cake to a perfect fluffy height without being heavy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavors.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and a subtle tang, helping create a tender crumb.
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries (if frozen, do not thaw): Bursts of juicy sweetness with every bite, providing a lovely pop of color.
How to Make Blueberry Buttermilk Breakfast Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures a hot oven ready to give your cake that perfect rise and golden crust. Grease and lightly flour an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan to prevent sticking and help achieve those lovely edges.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This whipping introduces air that will make your cake airy and soft. It’s a crucial step for texture, so don’t rush it!
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. The egg adds structure while vanilla contributes a lovely sweet aroma that makes this cake so inviting right from the mixing bowl.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Alternate with Buttermilk
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups of the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk—starting and ending with the flour mix. This alternating technique keeps the batter smooth and prevents overmixing, preserving the cake’s tender crumb.
Step 5: Incorporate Blueberries
Toss the blueberries with the remaining 1/4 cup of flour; this keeps them from sinking to the bottom during baking. Gently fold the blueberries into the batter, being careful not to crush them. Your cake batter should look beautiful with bursts of blue and purple ready to bake into delicious pockets of flavor.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Sprinkle the top with the remaining tablespoon of sugar to create that subtly sweet and crunchy top crust. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top turns a gorgeous golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cake cool slightly in the pan before slicing. This resting time helps the cake set, making it easier to cut and enhancing its flavor. Serve this cake warm or at room temperature for the best experience.
How to Serve Blueberry Buttermilk Breakfast Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty, delicate touch that makes the cake feel even more special. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey to bring creamy sweetness that perfectly complements the tart blueberries.
Side Dishes
This breakfast cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or tea. For a more filling morning, serve it alongside Greek yogurt or a fresh fruit salad to balance sweet and tangy flavors while adding a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming brunch presentation, cut the Blueberry Buttermilk Breakfast Cake Recipe into small squares and serve on a tiered stand. Add fresh blueberries and sprigs of mint around the plate for a pop of color that feels festive and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your cake fresh by storing leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want it to last longer, refrigeration is a great option for up to four days, just be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze slices of this breakfast cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to three months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator. This makes it easy to enjoy your favorite recipe anytime without the fuss of baking from scratch.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 325°F for 10 minutes. This helps revive the cake’s softness and juiciness, giving you that just-baked taste and texture all over again.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Use frozen blueberries straight from the freezer without thawing to prevent extra moisture from altering the batter consistency.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a quick buttermilk substitute by adding 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1/2 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using it in the recipe.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend that includes xanthan gum for a similar texture, but results may vary slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for breakfast or dessert?
This Blueberry Buttermilk Breakfast Cake Recipe is versatile enough for both! It works wonderfully as a morning treat or a light, fruity dessert.
How can I make the cake more moist?
Ensure not to overbake the cake and consider adding a little extra buttermilk (up to 1/4 cup more) for increased moisture without compromising structure.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Blueberry Buttermilk Breakfast Cake Recipe. It offers a cozy, homemade feeling in every bite and brings together simple ingredients to create something truly memorable. Whether you’re sharing it with family or indulging in a quiet morning moment, this cake will become your go-to breakfast treat in no time. Give it a try and watch your mornings brighten up beautifully.
