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Blueberry buckle with brown sugar topping

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon treat, this cake is a nostalgic nod to old-fashioned baking, yet incredibly simple to make. Its name, “buckle,” comes from the way the fruit causes the cake to rise and then “buckle” around the edges, creating a beautifully rustic, uneven top that is both charming and delicious.
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

For the cake:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 cups fresh blueberries
For the topping:
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter chilled and diced

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking dish and set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt for the cake.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Stir just until combined—do not overmix.
  5. Gently fold in the blueberries, then spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  6. For the topping, combine the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  7. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the blueberry batter.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the topping is golden brown.
  9. Allow the buckle to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
  10. Enjoy!