Blueberry Buckle

1. Prepare the Streusel

In a bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. With a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, mix on low speed. Gradually add the softened butter, one piece at a time. Continue mixing until the streusel resembles wet sand, ensuring that the butter is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This should take about three minutes.

2. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter, line the bottom with a circle of parchment paper, and lightly flour the sides. This preparation will prevent the cake from sticking and make it easier to remove later.

3. Mix the Cake Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. In the bowl of your stand mixer, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, salt, lemon zest, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about three minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This creaming process incorporates air, which will help make the cake light and tender.

4. Fold in the Blueberries

Gently fold the flour mixture into the butter mixture in three additions, being careful not to overmix. Once combined, carefully fold in the blueberries using a rubber spatula. This will ensure that the blueberries are evenly distributed without breaking them.

5. Assemble the Cake

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared cake pan. Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the top of the batter, covering the entire surface.

6. Bake the Cake

Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for about 55 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through to ensure even baking. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.

7. Cool the Cake

Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 15-20 minutes. Run a paring knife around the edges to loosen the cake, then invert it onto a plate, remove the parchment paper, and invert again onto the wire rack to cool completely, about one hour.