There’s something comforting about an old fashioned blueberry buckle recipe fresh from the oven. With its soft buttery cake, juicy blueberries, and sweet crumb topping, this classic dessert tastes like something straight from grandma’s kitchen. Whether you serve it for breakfast with coffee, as a brunch treat, or for dessert after dinner, this homemade blueberry buckle is always a crowd favorite.
If you love easy blueberry desserts and old fashioned coffee cake recipes, this blueberry buckle recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again. The tender cake paired with fresh blueberries and buttery streusel topping creates the perfect balance of sweetness and texture in every bite.
I originally shared a strawberry version of this recipe that readers loved, so I knew I had to make a blueberry buckle version too. If you enjoy strawberries, you can also check out my Strawberry Buckle Recipe here and this strawberry danish recipe.
What Is a Blueberry Buckle?
A blueberry buckle is an old fashioned dessert recipe made with soft cake batter, fresh blueberries, and a crumb topping similar to streusel. As the cake bakes, the blueberries and topping cause the cake to “buckle,” which is where the recipe gets its name.
Blueberry buckle is often compared to coffee cake because of its buttery crumb topping and soft texture, but the fresh fruit gives it its own unique flavor and texture.
Why You’ll Love This Blueberry Buckle Recipe
- Easy homemade dessert recipe
- Soft and buttery cake texture
- Loaded with juicy blueberries
- Delicious crumb topping
- Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert
- Great way to use fresh blueberries
- Can be made with frozen blueberries too
If you like blueberry desserts, you’ll love this blueberry dessert pizza.
Ingredients Needed for Blueberry Buckle
For the Cake
- 1/4 cup softened butter
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
For the Crumb Topping
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup softened butter
How to Make Blueberry Buckle
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
Grease an 8×8 baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg and mix well.
Slowly stir in the milk.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
Carefully fold the fresh blueberries into the batter.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
How to Make the Crumb Topping
In a small bowl, combine the sugar, flour, cinnamon, and softened butter.
Use a fork or pastry cutter to mix until crumbly.
Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter.
Bake for about 40 to 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the blueberry buckle to cool slightly before serving.
Tips for the Best Blueberry Buckle
Use Fresh Blueberries When Possible
Fresh blueberries work best because they hold their shape and release less moisture while baking.
Toss Blueberries in Flour
If you want to help prevent blueberries from sinking, lightly toss them in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter.
Don’t Overmix the Batter
Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of soft and tender.
Serve Warm
This blueberry buckle tastes incredible served slightly warm with coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Can You Use Frozen Blueberries?
Yes, frozen blueberries work well in this blueberry buckle recipe. Do not thaw them before adding them to the batter or they may release too much moisture and discolor the cake.
You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time when using frozen blueberries.
Why Is It Called a Buckle?
A buckle is a classic old fashioned American dessert where fruit and crumb topping cause the cake to rise unevenly and “buckle” as it bakes. Blueberry buckle recipes have been popular for generations because they are simple, comforting, and delicious.
What Is the Difference Between Buckle and Coffee Cake?
Blueberry buckle and coffee cake are very similar, but buckle recipes traditionally contain fresh fruit baked directly into the batter. The fruit creates a softer texture and slightly sunken appearance compared to traditional coffee cake.
How to Store Blueberry Buckle
Store leftover blueberry buckle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days.
You can also freeze blueberry buckle for up to 3 months. Wrap slices individually for easy serving later.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blueberry Buckle
Can blueberry buckle be made ahead of time?
Yes. You can make blueberry buckle a day ahead and store it covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Should blueberry buckle be refrigerated?
It can stay at room temperature for a couple of days, but refrigeration helps it stay fresh longer.
Can I use frozen blueberries in blueberry buckle?
Absolutely. Frozen blueberries work well and are a great option when fresh blueberries are not in season.
What makes blueberry buckle different from blueberry cake?
Blueberry buckle includes a crumb or streusel topping that gives it a more rustic texture and appearance.
Can I add lemon to blueberry buckle?
Yes. Lemon zest pairs wonderfully with blueberries and can brighten the flavor of the cake.
Old Fashioned Blueberry Buckle Recipe
This old fashioned blueberry buckle recipe is one of those classic desserts that never goes out of style. The combination of soft buttery cake, sweet blueberries, and crumb topping makes it perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or even an afternoon snack with coffee.
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Old Fashioned Blueberry Buckle Recipe
Blueberry buckle recipe made with fresh blueberries, buttery cake, and sweet crumb topping. This old fashioned blueberry buckle is easy, soft, and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup softened butter
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- For the Crumb Topping
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup softened butter
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
Grease an 8x8 baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg and mix well.
Slowly stir in the milk.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
Carefully fold the fresh blueberries into the batter.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.How to Make the Crumb Topping
In a small bowl, combine the sugar, flour, cinnamon, and softened butter.
Use a fork or pastry cutter to mix until crumbly.
Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter.
Bake for about 40 to 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the blueberry buckle to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of soft and tender.
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