Search Console is optional. Your own keywords and featured products or collections work without it.
You do not need Google Search Console to use Blogger. Three of the four topic sources work without it:
- Your Own Keywords
- Feature Products
- Feature Collections
Without Search Console, the From Google Search Console card shows that it is not connected, and you cannot continue with it. The SEO report on Home also needs Search Console, but your Moz domain metrics are always available in the Store Domain card on the Plans page.
Why connect later
New stores often have little search data. Once your store starts appearing in Google, connecting Search Console lets Blogger write about the queries people already use to find you, which are often the easiest wins.