1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions: A Journey to Blueberry Bliss
Step 1: Oven Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures even baking and easy removal.
Step 2: Creaming the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This incorporates air for a lighter cake. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
Step 3: Combining Dry and Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—overmixing will result in a tough cake.
Step 4: Gently Folding in the Blueberries
Gently fold in the blueberries until evenly distributed throughout the batter. Be careful not to overmix, as this can crush the berries.
Step 5: Creating the Crumbly Streusel Topping
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cold butter, and cinnamon. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to create coarse crumbs. The colder the butter, the better the crumbly texture.
Step 6: Baking and Cooling
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the streusel evenly over the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the buckle cool in the dish for 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the cake to set and makes for easier slicing.
Expert Tips and Variations: Elevate Your Blueberry Buckle
Cook’s Notes:
