Lemon Blueberry Cake

Gorgeous layers of blueberry-studded cake made with fresh lemon zest and juice for real lemon flavor tower with a robe of luscious lemon cream cheese frosting in this tender and moist Lemon Blueberry Cake. Perfect for birthdays, summer gatherings, or any celebration, this cake shines with its bright flavors and inviting appearance. The combination of tart lemons and sweet blueberries creates an unforgettable dessert that will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavor: The Lemon Blueberry Cake is bursting with vibrant lemon zest and juice, complemented by juicy blueberries.
• Moist Texture: This cake stays incredibly moist thanks to buttermilk and a rich cream cheese frosting.
• Versatile Occasion: Serve it at birthdays, picnics, or casual gatherings; it’s a crowd-pleaser for any event.
• Eye-Catching Layers: Beautifully layered, the cake looks stunning on any dessert table.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples, you can whip it up anytime without a trip to the store.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cake pans (3 x 8-inch)
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Essential for achieving the light and fluffy texture of the batter and frosting.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients without spilling.
• Rubber spatula: Helps scrape down the sides of bowls to ensure all ingredients are well-mixed.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Lemon Blueberry Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (113g) salted butter (softened to room temperature)
• 1 3/4 cups (350g) granulated sugar
• 2 Tablespoons lemon zest (from 3-4 lemons)
• 1/3 cup (90ml) vegetable or canola oil
• 4 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 Tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 3/4 cups (388g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) lemon juice (from 4-5 lemons)
• 2 cups (340g) fresh or frozen blueberries (12 ounces)
• 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 8 ounces (226g) full-fat brick cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 1/2 cup (113g) salted butter (softened to room temperature)
• 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Additional blueberries & lemon slices or lemon zest (for decorating)

How to Make Lemon Blueberry Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare three 8-inch cake pans by lining them with parchment paper circles. Spray each pan with baking spray or brush them with cake release.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest using a stand mixer or hand mixer on medium-high speed until creamy and light. This should take about 2–3 minutes. Add in the vegetable oil and continue beating for another 2–3 minutes until well combined. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined, which should take about a minute.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined; only a few streaks of flour should remain visible.

Step 5: Add Buttermilk and Lemon Juice

Pour in the buttermilk and lemon juice. Mix again just until combined; remember to scrape down the sides of your bowl.

Step 6: Fold in Blueberries

Toss the blueberries with the remaining tablespoon of flour before gently folding them into the batter. The batter will be thick at this stage. Divide it evenly between your prepared cake pans.

Step 7: Bake

Place the pans in your preheated oven. Bake for about 24–28 minutes or until a cake tester inserted into each layer comes out clean with just a few crumbs attached. Allow cakes to cool completely in their pans before assembling.

Step 8: Make Frosting

To prepare your frosting, beat together softened cream cheese and butter in a large mixing bowl using a stand mixer or hand mixer on medium-high speed until creamy and smooth—about 2–3 minutes. Gradually add powdered sugar along with additional lemon zest and juice. Mix until well combined but avoid overbeating as cream cheese frosting can thin out if beaten too long.

Step 9: Assemble Your Cake

Level off your cooled cake layers if necessary. Frost between each layer generously before covering the entire outside of the cake with frosting. Decorate as desired with additional blueberries and slices of lemon or extra lemon zest for that beautiful finishing touch.

Refrigerate your Lemon Blueberry Cake for at least 45 minutes before slicing into it so that the frosting sets nicely! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Cake

Lemon Blueberry Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or treating yourself on a regular day, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cake experience.

Classic Slice

• Serve a generous slice of the lemon blueberry cake on its own to let the flavors shine.

A La Mode

• Top a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast that enhances the citrus notes.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Add fresh blueberries and lemon slices on top for an eye-catching presentation and an extra burst of flavor.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream to add richness and lightness to each bite.

Tea or Coffee Pairing

• Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea or coffee to complement the cake’s bright flavors and make for a cozy afternoon treat.

Layered Parfait

• Crumble leftover cake into parfait glasses, alternating layers with yogurt and berries for a fun twist.

How to Perfect Lemon Blueberry Cake

Creating the perfect Lemon Blueberry Cake involves attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Fresh Lemons Matter – Opt for fresh lemons instead of bottled juice for optimal flavor and zestiness in both the cake and frosting.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix just until ingredients are combined, as overmixing can lead to dense cake layers.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting – Allow the cake layers to cool completely in the pans before frosting; this helps prevent melting the frosting.
• Adjust Baking Time – Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens vary, so check for doneness a few minutes early.
• Store Properly – Store any leftovers in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and moist while enhancing flavor over time.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Blueberry Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Blueberry Cake can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness that complements the citrusy notes of the cake.
2. Cheese Platter – Offer assorted cheeses like brie or goat cheese alongside crackers for a delightful balance between sweet and savory.
3. Spinach Salad – A light spinach salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.
4. Pecan Pie Bars – For those who like indulgence, these bars add nutty sweetness that pairs well with lemon flavors.
5. Vanilla Yogurt – Serve alongside vanilla yogurt sprinkled with granola for added texture and creaminess.
6. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries – The combination of chocolate and strawberry provides a decadent touch that complements lemon beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Lemon Blueberry Cake, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure you have the right amounts for a perfect cake.
• Using cold eggs and buttermilk: Cold ingredients can hinder proper mixing. Let your eggs and buttermilk sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using them.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too long can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a light, fluffy texture.
• Skipping parchment paper: Not lining your cake pans can result in sticking. Always use parchment paper to make removal easy and keep the layers intact.
• Frosting too soon: Frosting a warm cake can cause it to melt and slide off. Ensure your cakes are completely cool before applying frosting for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep the cake refrigerated to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.

Freezing Lemon Blueberry Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Lemon Blueberry Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap cake in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a slice in a skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Lemon Blueberry Cake so special?

The combination of fresh lemon zest and juicy blueberries creates a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness that elevates this dessert.

Can I use frozen blueberries in my Lemon Blueberry Cake?

Yes, frozen blueberries work well! Just toss them in flour before adding them to the batter to prevent sinking during baking.

How do I achieve the perfect lemon flavor in my cake?

Using both fresh lemon juice and zest ensures that your Lemon Blueberry Cake has an intense lemon flavor throughout.

What type of frosting pairs best with Lemon Blueberry Cake?

A cream cheese frosting complements the tangy flavors of the cake perfectly while adding richness and smoothness.

How should I decorate my Lemon Blueberry Cake?

You can top it with additional blueberries, lemon slices, or even edible flowers for an attractive finish that enhances its visual appeal.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Blueberry Cake is not only delicious but also versatile, perfect for any occasion from birthdays to casual gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding other fruits or adjusting the sweetness according to your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its vibrant flavors!