When it comes to cobblers versus cakes, a buckle is the best of both worlds—a rich batter heavily studded with fresh fruit and topped with a crunchy crumble. As it bakes, the batter rises, or buckles, over the berries as the crumble crisps and browns. This version uses three berries for a red, white, and blue theme (the cake itself counts as the “white”!). The following proportions are for a large cake that will feed a crowd or provide delicious leftovers for breakfast the next day.
Ingredients
For the crumble topping:
- 4 ounces unsalted butter, cubed and chilled
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the cake:
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for the baking dish
- 2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup whole wheat pastry flour
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 8 ounces unsalted butter at room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 8 large eggs
- 6 cups assorted berries, such as blueberries, blackberries, and sliced strawberries
Directions
Step 1
Make the topping: Use your hands or a pastry blender to turn the butter, sugar, flour, and cinnamon into small bits, ranging from the size of peas to beans. Set aside.
Step 2
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly coat a 13-inch by 9-inch baking dish with olive oil; set aside. To make the batter, in a medium bowl, whisk together the flours, salt, and baking powder. In a large bowl or standing mixer, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition to combine, then add the olive oil and briefly beat again. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.
Step 3
Transfer the batter to your baking dish and use a large offset spatula to smooth the top. Arrange the berries evenly over the top, being sure to get some into the corners of the dish. Crumble the topping evenly over the fruit.
Step 4
Bake until the tip of a sharp knife inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean, about an hour. Serve while still warm.
Yields 12 servings