Never heard of this combo before, but tried a bite of this 'Berry Bliss' cake and I knew I couldn't have it any other way!

Hey there, friends! Holly here, bringing you yet another delightful recipe straight from my cozy Midwest kitchen. Today, I've got a special treat for you that marries my love for breakfast and sweet indulgences – a heavenly Berry Bliss Cream Cheese Coffee Cake. This beauty has origins in those classic coffee cakes we all know and love but with a twist that'll make your mornings or coffee breaks oh-so-memorable. Whether you're hosting a brunch or simply want to treat yourself, this coffee cake's blueberry and cream cheese combo is a match made in baking heaven. Trust me, one bite of this and you'll understand why it's worth firing up the oven for!

Slice it up and serve it warm for maximum ooey-gooey goodness. This coffee cake doesn't need much on the side because it truly stands on its own, but if you're feeling fancy, a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can take it to the next level. And of course, brew your favorite coffee or tea to complement this sweet treat – the pairing is just impeccable.

Servings: 8-10

Ingredients:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh blueberries (a frozen option works too, just make sure to drain any excess liquid)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, but adds a nice brightness!)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan. We're aiming for easy release and presentation points!

2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, cream cheese, and sugar until light and fluffy. It's like fluffing a pillow, but tastier.

3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add in the vanilla extract and keep mixing until everything's happily combined.

4. Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in another bowl – this little move ensures no clumps, just smooth sailing.

5. Gradually blend the dry mixture into the creamed mixture, alternating with milk. Do this step gently; we're not looking for a workout, just a well-mixed batter.

6. Carefully fold in the blueberries and lemon zest. Treat 'em like delicate little jewels in your treasure of a cake.

7. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top because every cake deserves to feel pretty.

8. Bake for about 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. While it bakes, embrace the aroma – it's a sneak peek of the deliciousness to come.

9. Once done, cool the coffee cake in the pan on a wire rack because patience is a virtue that leads to tasty rewards.

Variations & Tips:

- Play with the berries: Swap out blueberries for raspberries or blackberries for a different fruity tang.
- Nutty for nuts: Fancy a bit of crunch? Sprinkle a handful of slivered almonds or chopped pecans on top before baking.
- Lactose-friendly: There are some excellent cream cheese alternatives out there if dairy is not your friend.
- Make-ahead magic: This coffee cake can be made the night before, and it's just as scrumptious the next day – if it lasts that long!

Bake this Berry Bliss Cream Cheese Coffee Cake, and it might just become your new weekend favorite. Happy baking, and remember, the best part of waking up is coffee cake on your table! Until next time, keep whisking and smiling!