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Blueberry “Cheesecake”

This blueberry cake is a great alternative to classic cheesecake, especially in the summer, because it tastes less heavy. The Cream Cheese Icing makes this version of the cake less sweet than a typical vanilla cake. The graham cracker crumbs around the sides of the iced cake add a decorative touch, while completing the flavor and texture combination that brings cheesecake to mind. For an added element, try substituting Citrus Cream Cheese Icing (page 146) for the traditional icing.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    makes enough for one 3-layer 8-inch cake one 2-layer 9-inch cake

Ingredients

1 recipe Vanilla Cake batter (page 115)
1 pint fresh blueberries
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 recipe Cream Cheese Icing (page 144)
2 cups finely ground graham crackers (see Graham Cracker Dough, page 86) or store-bought crumbs

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Preheat the oven to 350˚F. Grease three 8-inch or two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or nonstick cooking spray.

    Step 2

    Pour the Vanilla Cake batter into the prepared pans and set them aside.

    Step 3

    Combine the blueberries and flour in a bowl and toss the blueberries to coat. Distribute the blueberries evenly between the baking pans.

    Step 4

    Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, rotating the pans once halfway through.

    Step 5

    When the centers of the cakes spring back to touch, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool for 5 to 10 minutes in their pans. (You can also test for doneness by inserting a toothpick or fork into the center of the cake and checking that it comes out clean.) Run an offset spatula or dull knife between the sides of the cakes and the pans, and transfer the cakes right side up onto a wire rack to bring them to room temperature.

    Step 6

    While the cakes are baking and cooling, prepare the Cream Cheese Icing, if you have not already done so. Set it aside.

    Step 7

    Once the cakes are at room temperature, ice the cakes with the Cream Cheese Icing (see Icing a Cake, page 14).

    Step 8

    With the cake on cardboard, a turntable, or cake plate and working over a sheet of parchment or waxed paper to catch falling crumbs, gently press the graham cracker crumbs, a small handful at a time, into the sides of the cake until the sides are thoroughly coated.

    Step 9

    Serve the cake immediately, or keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. Bring the cake to room temperature for about 1 hour before serving.

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