Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake
Introduction
Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake is a delightful fusion of rich cheesecake, juicy blueberries, and a buttery crumb topping. This dessert brings together comforting bakery-style flavors with the elegance of a classic cheesecake, making it perfect for special gatherings, afternoon tea, or indulgent weekends at home. Each bite offers a balance of creamy, fruity, and crumbly textures that feels both luxurious and familiar.
Ingredients Quantity
Crumb Cake Base & Topping
3⅓ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
⅓ cup light brown sugar
⅓ cup granulated sugar
⅔ cup cold butter, cut into cubes
Grated zest from 1 lemon (optional)
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Blueberry Cheesecake Filling
8 oz mascarpone cheese
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup + 2 tablespoons caster sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1⅔ cups fresh blueberries
Glaze
½ cup powdered sugar
2–3 teaspoons milk
Instructions
Prepare the Pan and Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and spray the bottom and sides with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.
Make the Crumb Mixture
In a large bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, salt, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and lemon zest (if using). Add the cold butter cubes and work the mixture using your hands, a fork, or a mixer until it becomes grainy.
Add Wet Ingredients
Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing just until combined. The mixture should be crumbly. If it appears too sandy, squeeze portions with your fingers to form pea-sized crumbs.
Form the Crust
Press about ⅔ of the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and slightly up the sides (about 1½ inches high). Place the pan and remaining crumb mixture in the refrigerator to chill.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mascarpone, sugar, vanilla, and cornstarch until smooth. Add eggs and mix just until incorporated—do not overmix.
Assemble the Cake
Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust. Scatter half of the blueberries evenly over the filling. Pour the remaining cheesecake mixture on top, then scatter the remaining blueberries.
Add the Crumb Topping
Sprinkle the remaining chilled crumb mixture evenly over the top.
Bake
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. If browning too quickly, loosely cover with foil.
Cool and Glaze
Allow the cake to cool completely. Mix powdered sugar with milk until smooth and drizzle over the cooled cake before serving.
Origin and Cultural Significance
This dessert draws inspiration from European crumb cakes and classic American cheesecake, blending old-world baking traditions with modern dessert innovation. Blueberries, a staple in North American baking, symbolize summer harvests and home-style comfort, making this cake a beloved treat for family gatherings and celebrations.
Description
Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake features a tender crumb base, a velvety cheesecake center, bursts of fresh blueberries, and a golden crumb topping. Finished with a delicate glaze, it is visually appealing and irresistibly flavorful, offering layers of sweetness, tang, and richness.
Optional Additions
Substitute blueberries with raspberries or mixed berries
Add sliced almonds or chopped pecans to the crumb topping
Swirl blueberry jam into the cheesecake layer for added flavor
Use orange zest instead of lemon for a warmer citrus note
Tips for Success
Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling
Do not overmix the cheesecake batter to avoid cracking
Chill the crumb mixture for better structure
Allow the cake to cool fully before slicing for clean layers
Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice)
Calories: 380–420 kcal
Fat: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Protein: 6 g
Sugar: 24 g
(Values may vary depending on portion size and ingredients used.)
Conclusion
Blueberry Cheesecake Crumb Cake is a show-stopping dessert that combines classic flavors with an indulgent twist. Its layered textures and balanced sweetness make it suitable for both casual enjoyment and special occasions.
Recommendation
Serve this cake chilled or at room temperature with a cup of coffee or tea. It also pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream for an extra-special treat.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While indulgent, this dessert includes fresh blueberries, which are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Enjoying a thoughtfully prepared homemade dessert allows for mindful indulgence—celebrating flavor, quality ingredients, and the joy of baking in moderation.
If you’d like, I can also:
Simplify this for a cookbook format
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