Spring Brunch Blueberry Muffin Bake

Name: Spring Brunch Blueberry Muffin Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh blueberries; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Sweet Homemade Goodness

I love waking up to the sweet aroma of freshly baked blueberry muffins, especially during spring. This Spring Brunch Blueberry Muffin Bake brings together the delightful flavors of juicy blueberries and a soft, fluffy muffin texture, all in one easy-to-prepare dish. It's perfect for weekends when friends or family come over. The vibrant colors of the blueberries against the golden muffin mixture not only brighten up the table but also add a cheerful, seasonal touch. This recipe is sure to be a hit, and I can't wait to share it with you!

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:45:36.343Z

One lovely Sunday morning, I decided to experiment with a blueberry muffin bake that would not only be delicious but also visually stunning. The idea was to create a dish that encapsulates the freshness of spring. After trying out several variations, I found that mixing the batter while preserving some whole blueberries led to the best texture and flavor. My guests couldn't get enough of it!

What really makes this recipe shine is the crumb topping. It adds a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the moist muffin base. I learned to sprinkle in some lemon zest as well, which elevates the flavors brilliantly. This dish is versatile—feel free to swap in seasonal fruits or even nuts for a different twist!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with fresh blueberry flavor that sings spring.
An easy one-pan dish perfect for lazy brunches.
The perfect balance of sweetness and texture with a crumb topping.

Mastering the Muffin Base

The foundation of this Spring Brunch Blueberry Muffin Bake lies in its muffin base, which benefits from a careful balance of dry and wet ingredients. The use of all-purpose flour ensures a tender crumb, while the combination of milk and melted butter contributes to the richness and overall flavor. Make sure not to overmix the batter after adding the blueberries; a gentle fold is key to maintaining the berries' integrity and keeping the muffins fluffy. This way, you'll have pockets of juicy blueberries in every bite.

Using room temperature eggs and milk gives a smoother, more homogenous batter, which helps with the overall texture. If you're short on time, you can warm your milk slightly in the microwave until just lukewarm and use butter that’s melted but not hot to keep everything evenly mixed. This small step helps to prevent any hardened clumps of chilled butter in your batter.

Creating the Perfect Crumb Topping

A crumb topping can elevate a simple muffin bake to something truly special. The combination of flour, brown sugar, and butter in this recipe creates a deliciously crispy layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft muffin base. The brown sugar not only adds sweetness but also a hint of caramel flavor that pairs wonderfully with the tartness of the blueberries. Make sure to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until you achieve a crumbly texture; this ensures that the topping doesn't clump together too much.

If you prefer a nutty flavor in your crumb topping, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and depth. You can also adjust the amount of cinnamon based on your personal preference; a little extra sprinkle can enhance the overall flavor profile. When baking, keep an eye on the crumb topping as it browns—it should be golden and crisp before you remove it from the oven.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your Blueberry Muffin Bake has cooled slightly, you can slice it into squares for easy serving. I find that it tastes best warm, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, you can wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to two months. To reheat, place the squares in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, restoring that fresh-baked taste.

For an extra touch of indulgence at brunch, consider serving each piece with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream on top. Fresh mint leaves can also add a pop of color and freshness. Don't hesitate to get creative by introducing variations to this dish; for instance, substituting the blueberries with raspberries or chopped strawberries can change the flavor profile completely while still keeping it delicious!

Ingredients

For the Muffin Bake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups fresh blueberries

For the Crumb Topping

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the blueberries.

Prepare the Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon. Mix until crumbly.

Assemble and Bake

Spread the batter into the prepared baking dish, sprinkle the crumb topping on top, and bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Allow to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious Spring Brunch Blueberry Muffin Bake!

Pro Tips

For best results, use fresh blueberries. You can also add a dash of lemon juice to enhance the flavor. This dish is great for meal prep
simply store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need a gluten-free version of this recipe, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or similar binding agents, which help replicate the texture that gluten provides. This swap works beautifully without sacrificing taste or structure, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

For a dairy-free option, you can easily replace the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative, and the milk can be swapped with almond milk or oat milk. These substitutions still maintain the moistness and flavor of your muffin bake, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this seasonal treat.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're looking to feed a larger crowd, scaling up this recipe is straightforward. Doubling the ingredients will work seamlessly; just use a larger baking dish—aim for a 12x18-inch pan for optimal baking results. Keep an eye on the baking time, as larger quantities may need an additional 5-10 minutes in the oven. Make sure to check for doneness with a toothpick, which should come out clean when baked through.

Conversely, if you're cooking for a smaller gathering, you can halve the recipe and bake it in an 8x8-inch dish. This adjustment will keep the bake from becoming too thick and ensure even cooking. Another fun option is to create mini muffin bakes in muffin tins—just remember to reduce the baking time to about 20-25 minutes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but do not thaw them beforehand to prevent excess moisture.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Can I add other fruits?

Yes, you can add other berries or fruits like raspberries or diced peaches for variety.