Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet and Tangy Flavor: The homemade blueberry pie filling swirled into the light, fluffy cake creates a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
Quick and Easy: With about 35 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes of baking, this cake is perfect for a busy morning or a special occasion.
Perfect Texture: The combination of vegetable shortening and butter gives the cake a rich, tender crumb.
Beautiful Presentation: The blueberry swirl adds a pop of color and elegance to your dessert table.
Simple Glaze: A sweet glaze drizzled on top gives the cake a glossy finish and a touch of sweetness.

Ingredients

For the Homemade Blueberry Pie Filling:

1 cup granulated sugar
¼ cup Clear Jel
1 ¼ cup water
1 tablespoon lemon juice
5 cups fresh blueberries (rinsed and blanched)

For the Coffee Cake:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
½ cup vegetable shortening
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
4 large eggs (room temperature)

For the Simple Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk (any dairy type)

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Blueberry Pie Filling:

Blanch the Blueberries: Wash the blueberries in a colander. Place them in a large pot of boiling water. Once the water returns to a boil, immediately turn off the heat.
Drain the Blueberries: Remove the blueberries with a slotted spoon, placing them in a bowl covered with a kitchen towel to stay warm.
Make the Filling: In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, Clear Jel, water, and lemon juice. Stir over medium heat until the sugar and Clear Jel dissolve. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes a clear gel, about 7-8 minutes.
Add Blueberries: Remove from heat and stir in the blanched blueberries. Let the filling cool in a medium-size glass bowl for 2-3 hours before using.

2. Prepare the Coffee Cake Batter:

Preheat the Oven: Adjust the oven rack to the second level (just above center) and preheat to 350ºF (175ºC). Generously spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with flour-based baking spray. Optionally, line with parchment paper and respray the top.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder.
Cream the Butter and Shortening: Using a hand or stand mixer, beat together the unsalted butter and vegetable shortening on medium-high speed until smooth and creamy.
Add Sugar and Flavorings: Add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract, scraping down the sides as needed. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition.
Combine with Dry Ingredients: Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.

3. Assemble the Coffee Cake:

Layer the Batter: Spread ⅔ of the batter into the prepared 9×13-inch baking pan, smoothing it into an even layer.
Add Blueberry Filling: Spoon the homemade blueberry pie filling evenly over the top of the batter.
Top with Remaining Batter: Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the top of the blueberry filling. Gently spread the batter out to cover the filling, leaving a few pockets of blueberry swirl.

4. Bake the Coffee Cake:

Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 43-45 minutes, or until the top is a light golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

5. Make the Simple Glaze:

While the coffee cake bakes, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until smooth.

6. Finish and Serve:

Once the coffee cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.
Drizzle the simple glaze over the warm coffee cake.
Cut into squares, serve, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 servings
Prep Time: 35 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Add Other Fruits: You can swap the blueberries for raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries for a different flavor.
Nuts: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra texture and a nutty flavor.
Cinnamon: For a spiced twist, add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter.
Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the butter and shortening with dairy-free alternatives and use a plant-based milk for the glaze.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a 350ºF oven for 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen blueberries can be used. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the filling.

2. Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the coffee cake a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it at room temperature. Drizzle the glaze just before serving.

3. Can I freeze Blueberry Swirl Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the coffee cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then thaw at room temperature before serving.

4. Can I substitute the Clear Jel for cornstarch?

Clear Jel is ideal for making a smooth, thick filling, but you can substitute cornstarch. Use about 2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with a small amount of water as a replacement.

5. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using.

6. Can I add a crumb topping to the coffee cake?

Yes, you can add a crumb topping made of flour, sugar, butter, and cinnamon for a delightful crunch.

7. Can I make this coffee cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure the other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

8. Can I add a layer of cream cheese to the coffee cake?

Yes, for a creamy layer, spread a thin layer of cream cheese between the batter and blueberry filling.

9. How do I know when the coffee cake is done baking?

The coffee cake is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

10. Can I skip the glaze?

Yes, you can skip the glaze if you prefer a less sweet finish or want to keep it simple.

Conclusion

Blueberry Swirl Coffee Cake is the perfect treat to brighten up your morning or serve at a gathering. With its rich, moist texture, sweet blueberry swirl, and creamy glaze, this coffee cake will quickly become a go-to recipe. Whether you’re looking for a special breakfast, a snack with coffee, or a dessert to share with family and friends, this cake is sure to delight!