Welcome, baking enthusiasts!
If you’re on the lookout for a delightful dessert to impress your family and friends, you’ve come to the right place! Today, we’re diving into the world of German Blueberry Cake, a treat that perfectly combines the sweetness of blueberries with a soft and fluffy cake. Brimming with rich flavors and a hint of nostalgia, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your household.
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German Blueberry Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of blueberries with a soft and fluffy cake, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, if unavailable)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and finishing with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in the blueberries using a spatula.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool slightly before cutting. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour. Consider adding lemon or orange zest for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
The Story Behind German Blueberry Cake
German Blueberry Cake, known as “Heidelbeerkuchen” in Germany, reflects a traditional European approach to baking, where fresh fruit takes center stage. Blueberries are not only delicious but are also packed with antioxidants, making this cake a somewhat healthier indulgence. Growing up, I remember my grandmother preparing this cake on sunny Sunday afternoons, filling the air with the sweet, tangy scent of baked blueberries. Every bite transported me back to those cherished moments.
So, let’s get started on this scrumptious recipe that is perfect for any occasion — from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations!
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting recipe German Blueberry Cake, you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, if unavailable)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting
Note: If you have dietary restrictions, you can substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option. The texture will differ slightly but still deliciously embrace blueberry flavors!
How to Make German Blueberry Cake
Follow these steps to create your own delicious German Blueberry Cake:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This initial step is crucial for even baking.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, typically around 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine with Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined — be careful not to overmix!
- Fold in the Blueberries: Gently fold in the blueberries using a spatula or wooden spoon, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour Batter into Baking Dish: Transfer the batter into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before cutting. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.
Helpful Tips
Storing Leftover Ingredients
- Fresh Blueberries: Store any leftover fresh blueberries in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness.
- Batter Store: If you have extra cake batter, consider baking it in a muffin tin for blueberry muffins or a mini cake!
Cooking Tips
Enhancing the Flavor
To give your German Blueberry Cake an extra dimension of flavor, consider the following suggestions:
- Zest: Grate the peel of a lemon or orange into the batter before baking for a fresh citrus touch.
- Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and complexity to the cake.
Equipment Recommendations
For a smoother mixing process and to save time, using a stand mixer is highly recommended. It ensures all ingredients are perfectly blended without breaking a sweat!
Serving Suggestions
Pair your German Blueberry Cake with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sumptuous dessert.
- Fresh whipped cream on the side can significantly elevate the cake experience.
- A cup of hot tea or coffee perfectly complements this sweet delight!
Present your cake by cutting into squares and arranging them on a beautiful platter, garnished with extra blueberries on the side.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Information Per Serving
- Calories: 230
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Potassium: 100mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
- Vitamin A: 200IU
- Vitamin C: 5mg
- Calcium: 50mg
- Iron: 1mg
Nutritional Summary
This cake offers a delicious sweetness without excessive calories. Blueberries are known for their health benefits: they’re low in calories yet high in nutrients and antioxidants, making this treat a nutritious option!
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheat: To enjoy warm, place slices in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.
If you’re feeling creative, consider turning leftover cake into a parfait by layering it with yogurt and more fresh fruit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I substitute the blueberries?
Yes! You can use raspberries, strawberries, or even chopped apples if blueberries are not available.
How do I fix a cake that sunk in the middle?
This usually means it was underbaked or the oven temperature was too low. Make sure to test doneness with a toothpick next time!
Related Recipes
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Conclusion
Now that you’ve learned how to make German Blueberry Cake, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start baking! I can’t wait for you to experience this wonderful dessert that blends tradition with delightful flavors. Feel free to leave feedback or share your variations of this recipe; I’d love to hear about your experiences in the kitchen!