Blueberry Sonker: A Beloved Southern Classic
“Grew up in Wilkes County most of my life, and this has always been a staple dessert.”
Rooted in North Carolina tradition, the Blueberry Sonker is a warm and rustic Southern dessert that embodies comfort and simplicity.
With its bubbling blueberry filling and tender, cake-like topping, this dessert has been a cherished favorite for generations—
especially in Wilkes County, where it’s considered a hometown classic. Served warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream,
it’s the perfect end to any meal.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 6 cups fresh or frozen (defrosted) blueberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup water
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
For the Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish and place it on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Set aside.
- Make the Blueberry Filling: In a large bowl, combine the blueberries, sugar, and salt. In a small bowl, whisk together the water and cornstarch until smooth. Pour over the berries and gently mix to coat.
- Bake the Filling (First Round): Pour the blueberry mixture into the prepared dish. Bake for 15 minutes, remove and stir gently, then bake for another 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Topping: While the filling bakes, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Add the buttermilk, butter, and vanilla, and stir until a smooth batter forms. Do not overmix.
- Assemble the Sonker: Remove the dish from the oven. Gently spread the fruit evenly, then pour the topping over the hot blueberries and spread to cover.
- Final Bake: Return to the oven and bake for 30–40 minutes, rotating halfway through. The topping should be golden and a toothpick inserted should come out clean.
- Serve Warm: Let cool slightly. Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream for best results.
This Blueberry Sonker is more than just a dessert—it’s a taste of Southern heritage. Whether shared at a family gathering or enjoyed on a quiet evening, this dish always brings warmth and nostalgia to the table.
