This delightful coffee cake features a tender crumb, a medley of berries, and a buttery crumble topping, perfect for any occasion.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
Ensure the oven is fully preheated before baking for even cooking.
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Sifting the dry ingredients can help achieve a lighter cake texture.
In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
Use room temperature butter for easier creaming.
Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition.
Adding eggs gradually helps maintain the emulsion.
Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until well combined.
Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the batter, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
Mix just until combined to avoid overmixing.
Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top.
Use a spatula to evenly distribute the batter.
Layer the mixed berries evenly over the batter.
Pat the berries dry if they are too moist to prevent a soggy cake.
Spread the remaining batter over the berries, smoothing the top.
Gently spread the batter to avoid displacing the berries.
For the crumble topping, combine the butter, sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a bowl, mixing with your fingers until crumbly.
Keep the butter cold for a better crumb texture.
Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the batter.
Distribute the topping evenly for consistent coverage.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Check the cake a few minutes before the minimum baking time to avoid overbaking.
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Cooling the cake fully helps it set and makes slicing easier.
Cut the cake into squares and serve at room temperature.
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for added indulgence.