Kae's Berry Patch Coffee Cake ☕🍰

This delightful Berry Patch Coffee Cake is the perfect treat for brunch, an afternoon coffee break, or a sweet dessert anytime! It's rich, creamy, and bursting with berry flavors. The marbled raspberry preserves create a beautiful presentation and an irresistible taste that will have your guests coming back for seconds. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature, and consider pairing it with a cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate experience! ☕

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 1 cup sugar
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 large eggs
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup milk

For the Topping

• ¾ cup red raspberry preserves (or your favorite flavor)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, cream cheese, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

   🥄 Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smoother batter and to avoid lumps.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamy mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined; do not overmix!

   🔄 Overmixing can lead to a denser cake. Mix until you see no more streaks of flour.

5. Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan and pour the batter into it, spreading it evenly.

6. Add Preserves: Drop small spoonfuls of raspberry preserves on top of the batter. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the preserves into the batter for a marbled effect.

   🍓 Feel free to experiment with different preserves or even fresh berries for a twist!

7. Bake: Place your cake in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Drizzle and Serve: Once cooled, drizzle with powdered sugar glaze (optional) for a touch of sweetness. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

   🍰 This cake serves 12-15, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dessert night!

Variations

• Berry Mix: Substitute the raspberry preserves with a mix of blueberries, strawberries, or blackberries for a delightful twist.
• Zesty Lemon: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a refreshing citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with the berries.
• Nutty Crunch: Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture and nutty flavor.