Fluffy blueberry cake

Fluffy Blueberry Cake – A Sweet and Aromatic Delicacy

Are you dreaming of a dessert that perfectly combines the sweetness of fruit with a fluffy and soft texture? Then, the blueberry cake is the ideal choice! This recipe, inspired by the famous creations of Anna Olson, came to life in my kitchen on a day when I felt the need for something truly special. I experimented a bit, and the result was a delight worth sharing.

A Brief Story About Blueberry Cake

The cake is a classic dessert with deep roots in culinary tradition. Over time, it has evolved and been adapted into countless variations, becoming a favorite for many. That moment when you cut a slice and feel the enticing aroma of fresh blueberries is simply magical. This cake is perfect for a savory breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even an elegant dessert for a dinner with friends.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Number of Servings: 8-10

Ingredients for the Cake:
- 115 g butter or margarine, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of one lemon or orange
- 2 cups flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or vice versa, if you prefer)
- 2 cups blueberries (fresh or frozen and drained)

Ingredients for the Topping (Crumble):
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons soft butter (75 g)

Preparing the Blueberry Cake:

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients on your work surface. Make sure the butter is at room temperature to incorporate easily into the mixture.

2. Mixing the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, and salt. This will ensure a uniform and fluffy texture in the cake.

3. Creating the Butter and Sugar Mixture: In another bowl, cream the butter with the sugar until it becomes a fluffy, light-colored cream. This step is essential for incorporating air into the batter, which will help achieve a fluffy cake.

4. Adding the Eggs and Flavors: Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition. Don’t forget to add the citrus zest for an extra flavor boost.

5. Incorporating the Light Ingredients: Add the flour mixture in two to three stages, alternating with the milk and sour cream. Mix gently with a spatula or mixer until the ingredients combine. The batter will be thicker, but don’t worry, that’s how it should be!

6. Including the Blueberries: If you choose to include blueberries in the batter, make sure they are well-drained, especially if they are frozen. Gently fold them into the batter with a spatula so you don’t crush them.

7. Preparing the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Add the soft butter and rub the ingredients with your fingers until you achieve a crumbly texture, similar to breadcrumbs.

8. Baking the Cake: Grease a 20 cm x 20 cm pan or a round pan with a diameter of 22-26 cm with a little oil. Pour the batter into the pan and level it with a spatula. If you wish, you can arrange the blueberries on top and add the topping you prepared. Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Cooling: Once the cake is done, let it cool completely in the pan before removing and slicing it. This step is crucial as it allows the cake to retain its shape and fluffy texture.

Serving Suggestions:
The blueberry cake pairs perfectly with a cup of fresh tea or coffee. You can serve it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. Additionally, you can store it in the fridge for a few days, and its flavor becomes even more intense after a day.

Possible Variations:
- Instead of blueberries, you can use blackberries, cranberries, or diced apricots.
- You can add chopped nuts or coconut flakes to the batter for an extra texture.
- If you want a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of sugar in the batter by 1-2 tablespoons.

Nutritional Benefits:
This cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients: blueberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and are known for their heart health benefits. Additionally, the sour cream adds calcium and protein content.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other fruits? Yes, the cake can easily adapt with various fruits. Just make sure they are cut into small pieces for even baking.
- What if I don’t have sour cream? You can use just milk or yogurt, but the texture will be different.
- How can I keep the cake fresh? Keep it covered in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge for a week.

Enjoy this fluffy blueberry cake and let it become a favorite in your kitchen! Bon appétit!