Mixed Berry Coffee Cake

Mixed Berry Coffee Cake image source: spicedblog.com

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Mixed berry coffee cake is a delicious and versatile dessert that combines the rich flavors of fresh berries with a tender and moist cake. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon treat with a cup of coffee, this delectable cake is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With the perfect balance of tangy berries and sweet cake, mixed berry coffee cake is a crowd-pleaser that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Mixed Berry Coffee Cake Overview

Mixed berry coffee cake is made with a combination of juicy berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, and a light and fluffy cake base. The key ingredients for this delightful dessert include all-purpose flour, sugar, butter, eggs, milk, baking powder, vanilla extract, and of course, the mixed berries. The berries add a burst of freshness and vibrant colors to the cake, making it visually appealing as well as delicious.

There are several variations and substitutions that can be made to accommodate different dietary preferences or restrictions. For a healthier option, you can replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use a blend of gluten-free flours for a gluten-free version. If you prefer a vegan version, you can substitute the eggs with applesauce or mashed bananas, and use plant-based milk instead of dairy milk. Additionally, you can experiment with different combinations of berries or add other fruits such as peaches or cherries to create your own unique twist on this classic recipe.

To make this mixed berry coffee cake, you will need approximately 10 minutes of preparation time and 40 minutes of baking time. The recipe typically yields around 8 servings, making it perfect for smaller gatherings or enjoying throughout the week. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so it’s important to keep an eye on the cake and test for doneness with a toothpick or cake tester before removing it from the oven.

Ingredients:

All-purpose flour
Sugar
Butter
Eggs
Milk
Baking powder
Vanilla extract
Mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk.
Gently fold in the mixed berries, being careful not to overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutritional Information:

Calories: 250
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrate: 37g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 20g
Protein: 4g

Cooking Time & Servings:

This mixed berry coffee cake recipe takes approximately 50 minutes from start to finish, including the preparation and baking time. It yields around 8 servings, making it an ideal dessert for small gatherings or enjoying throughout the week.

Equipment:

Round cake pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk or electric mixer
Spatula
Wire rack

Serving Suggestions:

Mixed berry coffee cake is delicious on its own, but you can enhance its flavors and presentation by serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a brunch or breakfast spread, you can pair it with a fresh fruit salad and a hot cup of coffee or tea. To add an extra touch of sweetness, you can drizzle a homemade berry sauce over the cake. Consider garnishing the cake with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar to make it visually appealing.

Variation Ideas:

While the classic mixed berry coffee cake recipe is delightful on its own, you can get creative and add your personal touch to enhance its flavor and texture. Here are a few variation ideas to inspire you:

Swap the mixed berries with a single variety of berries, such as strawberries or blueberries, for a more focused flavor.
Add a streusel topping made with a combination of butter, flour, and brown sugar for an extra crunch.
Incorporate chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, into the cake batter for added texture.
Experiment with different extracts, such as almond or lemon, to give the cake a unique twist.

Substitutions:

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, you can make ingredient substitutions to suit your needs. Here are a few options:

Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend for a healthier or gluten-free version.
Substitute the eggs with applesauce or mashed bananas for a vegan alternative.
Use plant-based milk, such as almond milk or coconut milk, instead of dairy milk for a dairy-free option.
Experiment with different types of sweeteners, such as honey or maple syrup, for a natural alternative to sugar.

Storage:

To maintain the freshness and flavor of the mixed berry coffee cake, it’s important to store it properly. Here are a few storage recommendations:

Room Temperature: The cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: If you have leftovers, you can refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.

Tips:

Make sure to cream the butter and sugar thoroughly to achieve a light and fluffy cake.
Use fresh berries for the best flavor and texture. Frozen berries can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them properly before adding them to the batter.
If the cake is browning too quickly during baking, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from burning.
Serve the cake at room temperature for the best taste and texture. If refrigerated, allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

Notes:

This mixed berry coffee cake can be enjoyed any time of the year but is especially delicious during the summer when fresh berries are in season.
Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter for a warm and comforting flavor.
For an extra special touch, you can prepare a glaze using powdered sugar and lemon juice to drizzle over the cooled cake.
This recipe can easily be doubled or halved to accommodate different serving sizes or occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen berries for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them properly before adding them to the batter.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cake in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I use a different type of fruit instead of berries?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different fruits such as peaches, cherries, or a combination of fruits to create your own unique version of this coffee cake.

Can I make this recipe without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute the eggs with applesauce or mashed bananas for an egg-free alternative.

Category:

This mixed berry coffee cake recipe falls under the categories of desserts, breakfast, brunch, cakes, and summer recipes. It is perfect for any occasion and suitable for all seasons.

Personal Thought

Overall, mixed berry coffee cake is a delightful and versatile dessert that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of fresh berries with a tender and moist cake. It is easy to make and can be enjoyed at any time of the day. The combination of flavors and textures makes this cake a crowd-pleaser, and the vibrant colors of the mixed berries add an appealing visual element to the dish. Whether you are hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something sweet, mixed berry coffee cake is the perfect choice. Try this recipe and let your taste buds be amazed!

So why wait? Grab your mixing bowls and get ready to indulge in the irresistible flavors of mixed berry coffee cake. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different variations and substitutions to make it your own. Prepare it for your loved ones or enjoy it as a treat for yourself. This cake is bound to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Happy baking!

If you try the recipe, I would love to hear about your experience and any variations you tried. Feel free to leave a comment below with your feedback and suggestions. Enjoy preparing and savoring this delicious mixed berry coffee cake!