Imagine this: a warm slice of tender, buttery cake, bursting with fresh blueberries and crowned with a sweet, cinnamon-spiced crumb topping. It’s early afternoon on a summer Sunday, sunlight pouring through the windows, and you’re sipping tea or coffee with family and friends. That’s exactly the scene where Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake shines. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving a comforting homemade dessert, this recipe fits the moment.
The inspiration behind this cake goes back to Sherry’s childhood summers in Maine, where blueberries grew wild and plentiful. Her grandmother would bake crumb-topped cakes every weekend, but this version adds a creamy twist with tangy cream cheese, creating a texture that’s both rich and delicate. It’s a fusion of nostalgia and indulgence, all in one pan.
Why You’ll Love This Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake
This isn’t your average coffee cake or simple blueberry dessert. Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake offers the perfect trifecta of flavors and textures:
- Tender, moist crumb thanks to the butter and cream cheese combo
- Juicy bursts of fresh blueberries in every bite
- A crunchy, cinnamon-sugar topping that adds warmth and sweetness
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a late-night treat, this cake feels special without requiring complicated ingredients or techniques.
The Secret Ingredients That Make It Unforgettable
Each ingredient in this cake plays a critical role. Here’s a closer look at what makes it so irresistible:
All-Purpose Flour
The base of the cake, giving structure and a soft bite.
Sugar
Both white and brown sugars are used — white sugar for sweetness and tenderness in the cake, and brown sugar for that deep, caramel-like topping.
Baking Powder
Ensures the cake rises just the right amount, resulting in a fluffy but stable texture.
Salt
Balances sweetness and enhances flavor. Just a pinch goes a long way.
Unsalted Butter
Adds richness and moisture to the cake. Softened butter is essential for proper mixing and texture.
Cream Cheese
This is the heart of the recipe. Cream cheese makes the crumb moist, slightly tangy, and absolutely decadent.
Egg
Binds the ingredients and adds structure.
Vanilla Extract
For that warm, aromatic background flavor that ties it all together.
Fresh Blueberries
The highlight of the cake! Bursting with natural sweetness and a touch of tartness.
Crumb Topping Ingredients (Brown Sugar, Flour, Cinnamon)
Creates a crisp, flavorful topping that adds contrast to the soft interior.
How to Make Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake
This cake is simple enough for beginners but impressive enough for seasoned bakers to appreciate.
🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Bake Time: 30-35 minutes
🍰 Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
For the Crumb Topping:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan (you can also use parchment paper for easier removal). - Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. - Cream the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, beat the butter, cream cheese, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. This takes about 2–3 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed. - Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix — a few lumps are okay. - Add the Blueberries:
Carefully fold in the blueberries using a spatula, trying not to crush them. - Pour into Pan:
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and spread evenly. - Make the Crumb Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the cake batter. - Bake:
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and fragrant. - Cool and Serve:
Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing. It can be served warm or at room temperature.
Tips for the Perfect Crumb Cake
Here are some tips to make sure your Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake turns out perfectly every time:
- Use room temperature ingredients. This helps everything blend smoothly and evenly.
- Don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing can make the cake tough. Mix just until combined.
- Fresh blueberries are best, but if using frozen, don’t thaw them — toss with a bit of flour before folding in to prevent bleeding.
- Check for doneness early. Ovens vary — test at the 30-minute mark with a toothpick.
Storage and Make-Ahead Options
Storing:
This cake keeps beautifully. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freezing:
To freeze, wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Make-Ahead:
The batter can be made a few hours in advance and refrigerated. Just bring to room temperature before baking.
Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with This Cake
Looking to complete the experience? Here are a few ideas to pair with your Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake:
- Coffee or Cappuccino: The richness of the cake complements the bold flavor of coffee.
- Earl Grey or Chai Tea: The bergamot or spices play nicely with the cinnamon crumb.
- Lemon Curd or Whipped Cream: For a citrusy or creamy contrast.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop on the side transforms this into an elegant dessert.
Variations and Substitutions
Feeling creative? Try one of these delicious twists:
- Swap the Berries: Use raspberries, blackberries, or chopped strawberries.
- Add Zest: A little lemon or orange zest in the batter adds brightness.
- Nutty Crumb Topping: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for crunch.
- Make It Mini: Bake in muffin tins for single-serve portions (adjust baking time to ~18-22 minutes).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, but do not thaw them first. Toss them in a teaspoon of flour to prevent the color from bleeding into the batter.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for best results. Look for one that includes xanthan gum.
Can I make it dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives, but note that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
What size pan can I use?
If you don’t have a 9-inch round cake pan, an 8×8-inch square pan works well too — just adjust the baking time by a few minutes.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Sharing
Desserts have a way of bringing people together, and this cake is no exception. It’s easy to transport, slice, and serve — making it ideal for potlucks, picnics, bake sales, or gifting. Plus, it’s got that homemade-with-love appeal that makes people ask, “Can I get the recipe?”
Final Thoughts: Bake It, Share It, Love It
Sherry’s Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake isn’t just a dessert — it’s a cozy memory waiting to happen. With its soft texture, juicy berries, and comforting crumb, it’s the kind of recipe that becomes a family favorite. You’ll find yourself making it for birthdays, brunches, rainy days, and just because.
So roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to bake a little joy into your day.