Easy Lemon Blueberry Cake for Spring Celebrations

Name: Easy Lemon Blueberry Cake for Spring Celebrations
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 3 cups cake flour ((360 grams)); 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup buttermilk ((180 ml), room temperature); 1/3 cup lemon juice ((80 ml), freshly squeezed); 1 cup unsalted butter ((226 grams), softened); 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar ((350 grams)); 2 tablespoons lemon zest; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 4 large eggs ((room temperature)); 2 cups fresh blueberries; 2 teaspoons cake flour or all-purpose flour ((for tossing blueberries)); 1/2 cup unsalted butter ((112 grams), softened); 8 oz brick-style cream cheese ((226 grams)); 1 teaspoon lemon juice ((freshly squeezed)); 3 – 4 cups powdered sugar ((330-440 grams), sifted); 1 tablespoon whipping cream ((as needed)); 3/4 cup unsalted butter ((168 grams), softened); 12 oz brick-style cream cheese ((340 grams), full fat); 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice ((freshly squeezed)); 4 1/2 – 5 1/2 cups powdered sugar ((495 – 605 grams), sifted); 1-2 tablespoons whipping cream ((as needed))

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This Lemon Blueberry Cake is a delightful treat that perfectly combines zesty lemon and sweet blueberries. The tender crumb and moist texture make it a comforting choice for any spring gathering or sunny afternoon. With its vibrant colors and luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also brighten your day. Serve it at your next picnic or family celebration, and watch everyone smile with every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Blueberry Cake

This lemon blueberry cake is a crowd-pleaser, offering a refreshing twist to classic flavors. The combination of tart lemon and juicy blueberries creates a symphony of taste that dances on your palate. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

Delicious Lemon Blueberry Cake slice on a floral plate.

Key Ingredients

Essential Ingredients for the Cake

3 cups cake flour (360 grams)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup buttermilk (180 ml), room temperature
1/3 cup lemon juice (80 ml), freshly squeezed
1 cup unsalted butter (226 grams), softened
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar (350 grams)
2 tablespoons lemon zest
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
4 large eggs, room temperature
2 cups fresh blueberries
2 teaspoons cake flour or all-purpose flour (for tossing blueberries)

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter (112 grams), softened
8 oz brick-style cream cheese (226 grams)
1 teaspoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
3 – 4 cups powdered sugar (330-440 grams), sifted
1 tablespoon whipping cream, as needed

Substitutions and Variations

For cake flour, combine 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour with 1/3 cup cornstarch, sifted three times.
Buttermilk can be substituted with whole milk if needed.
This Lemon Blueberry Cake can also be made as cupcakes; bake at 350°F for 16-20 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Cake Batter

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing and flouring it or lining it with parchment paper for layer cakes. In a bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, and set aside.

In another bowl, mix the buttermilk and lemon juice, then set aside. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, sugar, and lemon zest until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Gradually mix in the flour mixture and buttermilk mixture, alternating between the two, while ensuring not to overmix. Scrape down the bowl as needed. Toss the blueberries in a small amount of flour to prevent them from sinking, then gently fold them into the batter.

Baking the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and bake. For a 9×13 inch cake, bake for 30-35 minutes; for layer cakes, bake for 25-30 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, and the top feels firm.

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake cools, prepare the cream cheese frosting. Beat the softened butter until creamy, then add the cream cheese and mix until smooth. Incorporate the lemon juice and gradually add the sifted powdered sugar until achieving your desired sweetness and consistency. If the frosting is too thick, add whipping cream as needed.

Decorating the Cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, frost it generously with the cream cheese frosting. For an extra touch, consider garnishing with fresh blueberries and lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.

Delicious Lemon Blueberry Cake showcasing sweet blueberries and creamy frosting.

Tips for Success

Ensuring a Moist Cake

To achieve a moist Lemon Blueberry Cake, ensure that your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature before using them. This allows for better incorporation and a tender texture.

Frosting Techniques

When frosting, use a spatula to create swirls and peaks for a rustic look, or achieve a smooth finish by using a bench scraper. If you’re making a layer cake, remember to place a layer of frosting between the cake layers for added flavor.

Equipment Needed

9×13 inch baking pan or three 8-inch round cake pans
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

Storage Recommendations

The unfrosted cake can be stored at room temperature overnight or in the refrigerator. Frost on the day of serving for the best flavor and texture. Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you have unfrosted cake layers, they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

FAQs

How does blueberry cake taste?

Blueberry cake offers a delightful blend of sweetness with a subtle tartness from the blueberries. The lemon adds a fresh, zesty flavor that balances the sweetness, making it a refreshing dessert.

Should a lemon blueberry cake be refrigerated?

Yes, it is best to refrigerate lemon blueberry cake if it is frosted. This keeps the cream cheese frosting fresh and safe to eat. Unfrosted cake can be stored at room temperature.

Can you add blueberries to a lemon cake mix?

Absolutely! Fresh blueberries can be added to a lemon cake mix to enhance the flavor and add a lovely burst of sweetness.

Do blueberry and lemon go well together?

Yes, blueberry and lemon complement each other beautifully. The citrusy notes of lemon enhance the sweetness of the blueberries, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.

More Delicious Recipes to Try Next

Conclusion

This Lemon Blueberry Cake is a fantastic way to celebrate spring and delight your loved ones. The combination of refreshing lemon and sweet blueberries creates a memorable dessert that everyone will enjoy. For more inspiration, check out Elly’s Recipes on Pinterest for delightful ideas and tips!