Name: Blueberry Tea Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened ((not melted)); 1 cup sugar; 1 large egg; ½ cup milk; 2 cups fresh blueberries ((frozen will also work)); ½ cup sugar ((for the topping)); ½ cup all-purpose flour ((for the topping)); 1 teaspoon cinnamon; a pinch salt; ½ cup unsalted butter ((at room temperature, for the topping))

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a slice of Blueberry Tea Cake that just feels like home. This delightful treat pairs perfectly with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making it a wonderful addition to brunch, afternoon tea, or simply as a sweet snack during the day. The mixture of tender cake and juicy blueberries creates a deliciously moist texture, while the subtle cinnamon topping adds a delightful crunch. Whether you’re treating yourself or hosting a gathering, this Blueberry Tea Cake is sure to impress!

Reasons to Love Blueberry Tea Cake

This Blueberry Tea Cake is more than just a sweet indulgence. Here are a few reasons to fall in love with this delightful dessert:

1. **Fresh and Fruity**: Bursting with fresh blueberries, this cake is a celebration of summer flavors that can be enjoyed year-round.

2. **Easy to Make**: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.

3. **Versatile**: Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a lovely dessert after dinner.

4. **Customizable**: You can easily swap ingredients or add your favorite nuts for added texture.

5. **Impressive Presentation**: The beautiful color of the blueberries and the crumbly topping make for a stunning cake that looks as good as it tastes.

Shopping List

Before you get started, here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened (not melted)
1 cup sugar
1 large egg
½ cup milk
2 cups fresh blueberries (frozen will also work)
½ cup sugar (for the topping)
½ cup all-purpose flour (for the topping)
1 teaspoon cinnamon
A pinch of salt
½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature (for the topping)

Recommended Tools

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools:

Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to a perfect cake.
Whisk: For mixing dry ingredients and beating the egg.
Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding in the blueberries and ensuring no lumps remain.
9×13 inch baking pan: The perfect size for your Blueberry Tea Cake.
Cooling rack: To help your cake cool evenly after baking.

How to Prepare Blueberry Tea Cake

Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Blueberry Tea Cake:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray to ensure easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Egg and Milk

Add the large egg and ½ cup of milk to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

Step 6: Fold in the Blueberries

Gently fold the 2 cups of blueberries into the batter using a rubber spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the cake.

Step 7: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix together ½ cup of sugar, ½ cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Cut in ½ cup of room temperature unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 8: Assemble and Bake

Pour the blueberry batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the batter. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

If you have dietary preferences or restrictions, consider these swaps:

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative, and use almond milk or oat milk.
Lower Sugar: Reduce the sugar in the batter by half and use a sugar substitute for the topping.
Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use dairy-free milk and butter.

Chef’s Rationale

The combination of fresh blueberries with a soft, tender cake creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The addition of cinnamon in the topping not only enhances the cake’s flavor profile but also adds a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the moist cake. Using fresh blueberries is key for that burst of flavor, but feel free to use frozen if fresh isn’t available. This Blueberry Tea Cake is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion!

Best Ways to Store

To keep your Blueberry Tea Cake fresh, follow these storage tips:

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, but be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: For longer storage, cut the cake into individual slices and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen blueberries in this recipe?

Yes, frozen blueberries work well in this recipe. Just be sure to add them directly from the freezer without thawing to prevent the batter from turning purple.

What can I serve with Blueberry Tea Cake?

This cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream, a dollop of yogurt, or simply a dusting of powdered sugar. A cup of tea or coffee complements it perfectly for a delightful afternoon treat.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the Blueberry Tea Cake a day in advance. Just store it properly and allow it to cool completely before covering it.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. You can also gently press the top; it should spring back when fully baked.

Next Steps

Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking! Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the delightful aroma of fresh blueberry cake fill your kitchen. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a treat for yourself, this Blueberry Tea Cake will surely bring joy to your table.

Enjoy each slice of this wholesome cake, and don’t forget to share your baking experience with friends and family. Happy baking!