Blackberry coffee cake: is there anything more comforting? This sweet treat is welcome any time of day, from breakfast to brunch to dessert. And it’s usually a crowd-pleaser, too!
The good news is there are almost as many blackberry coffee cake recipes as there are people who love to eat it. The not-so-good news? That can make it hard to choose which recipe to try! So, we’ve compiled a comprehensive overview of the best blackberry coffee cake recipes we could find. We’ll also share some baking tips and storage advice.
The goal? To give you all the knowledge and inspiration you need to bake a blackberry coffee cake that you and your loved ones will enjoy.
Key Ingredients for a Perfect Blackberry Coffee Cake
Let’s take a closer look at the building blocks of an amazing blackberry coffee cake.
The Base: Flour, Sugar, and Butter
The type of flour you use makes a big difference in your cake’s texture. High-quality flour will give you a tender crumb. All-purpose flour is a good choice, but if you want a really delicate cake, try cake flour.
Sugar adds both sweetness and moisture to the cake. You can use granulated or brown sugar, depending on the flavor you’re after.
Butter is essential for richness and flavor. Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, for the best results.
The Wet Ingredients: Eggs, Milk, and Sour Cream (or Yogurt)
Eggs bind the ingredients together and add richness to the cake. Milk provides moisture and helps create the right consistency.
Sour cream (or Greek yogurt) adds a touch of tanginess and keeps the cake moist. You can easily substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream if you prefer.
The Star: Fresh or Frozen Blackberries
Ripe, juicy blackberries are a must! Wild blackberries have a more intense flavor than cultivated ones. If you’re using frozen blackberries, don’t thaw them before adding them to the batter. This will prevent them from bleeding and turning your cake purple.
Mastering the Basic Blackberry Coffee Cake Recipe
Ready to bake a blackberry coffee cake? Here’s how to get it right:
Preparing the Batter
First, cream the butter and sugar together until they’re light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it’s how you get air into the batter, which makes the cake light and airy, too.
Next, gradually add the dry and wet ingredients, alternating between them until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or you’ll end up with a tough cake.
Incorporating the Blackberries
When it comes to the blackberries, gently fold them into the batter. You don’t want to break the berries and turn the batter purple!
You can also layer the blackberries within the batter for even distribution. Pour half the batter into the pan, layer the blackberries on top, and then pour the remaining batter over the berries.
Baking to Perfection
Bake the cake at 350°F to 375°F for 40 to 60 minutes, depending on your oven. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done. If not, bake for a few more minutes and check again.
Let the cake cool on a wire rack before serving. This will prevent the bottom from getting soggy.
Variations for a unique blackberry coffee cake experience
The perfect blackberry coffee cake is a blank canvas. Here’s how to add some extra touches to make it your own.
Streusel topping sensations
A classic streusel topping is made with flour, sugar, butter, and cinnamon. A good ratio is usually 1 part flour, 1 part sugar, and 1/2 part cold butter, plus a dash of cinnamon. Combine the flour, sugar, and cinnamon, then cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. For added texture and flavor, try adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts.
Swirls and fillings
For a visually appealing and flavorful cake, create a blackberry puree swirl. You can substitute blackberry jam for fresh blackberries, thinning it with a bit of water or lemon juice for easier swirling. Other fruit fillings that complement blackberries include raspberries or blueberries.
Glazes and frostings
A simple glaze can be made with powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice. Adjust the consistency by adding more liquid or sugar. Other options include cream cheese frosting or whipped cream.
Storage Tips
Want to keep your coffee cake as delicious as possible?
- Room Temperature: Keep it on the counter for a day or two, covered.
- Refrigerator: Put it in the fridge, and it should last for 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then again in foil. It’ll keep for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, let it thaw in the fridge for at least 12 hours.
Summary
Blackberry coffee cake is an easy, adaptable, and delicious treat. You can add different spices, use different toppings, or change up the fruit to make it your own.
So, go ahead and preheat your oven and pull out your mixing bowls! The best way to find your favorite blackberry coffee cake recipe is to bake a few.