American
👍 Beginner Friendly
1h 5measy
AmericanDessert
Recipe Story
origins & traditionsBerry Buckle is a beloved American dessert that dates back to colonial times, combining the best elements of coffee cake and fruit dessert. Unlike a crisp or crumble, a buckle features fruit mixed directly into a tender, buttery cake batter, which causes the cake to buckle and crack as it bakes around the berries. The generous streusel topping adds a delightful crunch and sweetness that perfectly complements the tart berries. Traditionally made with blueberries during summer months, this versatile dessert works beautifully year-round and can be served warm for breakfast, as an afternoon snack with coffee, or as a comforting dessert with vanilla ice cream. The combination of textures from the soft cake, juicy berries, and crispy topping makes every bite interesting. This recipe is forgiving and adaptable, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers looking for a reliable crowd-pleaser.
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9-inch square baking pan with butter and set aside.
Make the streusel topping: In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup flour, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Cut in 4 tablespoons cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
Prepare the cake batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 6 tablespoons softened butter and 3/4 cup sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Beat in 1 egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with 1/2 cup milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix just until combined after each addition.
Gently fold in 2 cups fresh blueberries, being careful not to crush them.
Spread batter evenly into prepared pan. The batter will be thick.
Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
Cool in pan on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Berry Buckle with Streusel Topping
4.6 (63)
A tender, moist coffee-style dessert loaded with fresh blueberries and topped with a crunchy cinnamon streusel. This classic New England treat is perfect for any gathering or afternoon treat.
easy
1h 10m
8 servings
Ingredients
0 of 9 checked
Cake Batter and Streusel
- 2 1/2 cups flour, divided
- 10 tablespoons butter, divided (6 tbsp softened, 4 tbsp cold)
- 1 1/4 cups sugar, divided
Cake Batter
- 2 cups blueberry, fresh or frozen
- 1 pieces eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 cups milk, room temperature
- 1 teaspoons vanilla-extract
- 1/2 teaspoons salt
Streusel Topping
- 1 teaspoons cinnamon, ground
Chef Tips
expert advice•For best results, avoid overmixing the batter once you add the flour to prevent a tough cake.
•If using frozen berries, do not thaw them first as this prevents excess moisture and color bleeding into the batter.
•You can substitute blueberries with raspberries, blackberries, or a mixed berry combination.
•For extra richness, add a pinch of nutmeg to the streusel topping.
•This buckle tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
•To prevent berries from sinking to the bottom, toss them lightly in a tablespoon of flour before folding into the batter.
•Serve with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
•This recipe doubles easily for a 9x13-inch pan; just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
