Name: German Blueberry Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp lemon zest (optional); 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk; 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries; Optional: powdered sugar for dusting or lemon glaze for topping

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is the perfect balance of sweet and tart, soft and slightly crisp. It’s made with everyday ingredients, comes together easily, and showcases fresh fruit in a way that feels both homey and special. Whether served warm with whipped cream or enjoyed cold the next day, this German-inspired blueberry cake is an elegant treat that’s just as good with coffee as it is on its own.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flour
baking powder
unsalted butter (softened)
granulated sugar
eggs
vanilla extract
milk or buttermilk
fresh or frozen blueberries
lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
pinch of salt
optional: powdered sugar for dusting or a light glaze

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round or square cake pan (8 or 9 inches).
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla and lemon zest if using.
Alternate adding flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.
Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Scatter blueberries evenly over the batter. Lightly press them in, but don’t submerge.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze before serving, if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves 8–10. Prep time is 15 minutes, and baking time is 40–45 minutes.

Variations

Crumb topping: Add a streusel topping made from butter, flour, and sugar before baking.
Almond twist: Add a handful of sliced almonds on top for extra crunch.
Lemon glaze: Mix lemon juice and powdered sugar for a sweet, tangy drizzle.
Vegan version: Use plant-based butter, egg replacer, and non-dairy milk.
Spiced flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze whole or sliced, tightly wrapped, for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm slices gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes, or enjoy at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, but do not thaw them before adding to the batter to prevent color bleeding.

What’s the best pan to use?

An 8- or 9-inch round or square pan works well. A springform pan makes removal easier.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You can reduce the sugar slightly without affecting the texture too much. Just taste and adjust accordingly.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but use a 50/50 mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour to keep the texture light.

Can I add other berries?

Absolutely — raspberries or blackberries pair well with or can replace the blueberries.

How do I know when the cake is done?

It’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for baking. Check for doneness, as baking time may vary slightly.

What’s the origin of this cake?

It’s inspired by traditional German fruit cakes, which often feature fresh berries or stone fruit on a simple, buttery base.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just bake in a 9×13-inch pan and increase the baking time slightly.

Should I serve it warm or cold?

Both work beautifully — warm for a cozy dessert, or chilled for a refreshing bite.

Conclusion

German Blueberry Cake is a timeless dessert that combines rustic simplicity with fresh, fruity flavor. Whether served as a sweet afternoon snack, light dessert, or part of a celebratory brunch, its moist crumb and juicy berries make it a crowd-pleaser. With minimal effort and maximum charm, it’s a recipe worth keeping on repeat.