Blueberry Buttermilk Breakfast Cake

#### **Instructions:**

**Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan**
– Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Grease a 9-inch round or square cake pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray, and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal of the cake.

**Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients**
– In a medium bowl, whisk together the **flour**, **baking powder**, **baking soda**, **salt**, and **cinnamon** (if using). Set aside.

**Step 3: Prepare the Blueberries**
– In a small bowl, toss the **blueberries** with **1 tablespoon of flour**. This will help prevent the berries from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking. Set aside.

**Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar**
– In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the **butter** and **sugar** together on medium speed until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

**Step 5: Add the Eggs and Vanilla**
– Add the **eggs** one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the **vanilla extract**.

**Step 6: Alternate Adding the Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk**
– Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three additions, alternating with the **buttermilk**. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

**Step 7: Fold in the Blueberries**
– Gently fold the **flour-coated blueberries** into the batter using a spatula. Be careful not to break up the berries, as this can result in a streaky batter.

**Step 8: Prepare the Crumb Topping (Optional)**
– In a small bowl, combine **flour**, **sugar**, **butter**, and **cinnamon** for the crumb topping. Use a fork or your fingers to mix the ingredients together until you get a crumbly texture. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the batter in the cake pan.

**Step 9: Bake the Cake**
– Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake the cake for **35-40 minutes** or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean (with a few moist crumbs attached).

**Step 10: Cool and Serve**
– Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once the cake has cooled, slice and serve.

### **Tips for the Perfect Blueberry Buttermilk Breakfast Cake**

While the recipe itself is fairly straightforward, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you make the best possible version of this breakfast cake.

#### **1. Use Fresh Blueberries**
Fresh blueberries work best in this recipe, as they are less likely to release too much moisture into the batter. However, if fresh blueberries aren’t available, frozen blueberries will work as well. Just make sure not to thaw them before adding them to the batter, as this can cause them to bleed into the cake and affect the texture.

#### **2. Don’t Overmix the Batter**
When mixing the dry and wet ingredients, be sure not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can cause the cake to become tough and dense. Stir until the ingredients are just combined for a light, tender cake.

#### **3. Customize the Toppings**
The crumb topping is optional but adds a lovely sweetness and crunch to the cake. If you prefer a less sweet option, you can omit the crumb topping or replace it with a dusting of powdered sugar after the cake has cooled.

#### **4. Try Other Fruit Variations**
While blueberries are the star of this cake, feel free to experiment with other fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries. You can even mix different berries for a fun, colorful twist.

#### **5. Store Leftovers Properly**
If you have any leftover cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.

### **Serving Suggestions for Blueberry Buttermilk Breakfast Cake**

This cake is perfect for breakfast, but it can also be served as a  snack, dessert, or a brunch treat. Here are some ideas for how to serve it:

1. **With Fresh Fruit**: Serve a slice of cake with a side of fresh fruit such as sliced strawberries or peaches for an extra burst of flavor and freshness.
2. **With Whipped Cream**: A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with this cake, turning it into a dessert for any occasion.
3. **With a Cup of Coffee or Tea**: A cup of coffee or tea complements the cake perfectly, making it an ideal pairing for your morning or afternoon break.

### **Conclusion**

The **Blueberry Buttermilk Breakfast Cake** is a simple yet indulgent treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a busy weekday morning or preparing it for a weekend brunch with friends, this cake will leave everyone asking for the recipe. With its moist, flavorful texture and the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Not only is this cake incredibly easy to make, but it is also highly versatile. You can swap in different fruits, adjust the level of sweetness, or add additional toppings to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a make-ahead option that’s perfect for meal prepping and keeping on hand for a quick and satisfying breakfast throughout the week.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy the process of making this delightful treat. Your taste buds—and your family—will thank you. Happy baking!