Lemon blueberry poke cake, a delightful fusion of tangy lemon and sweet blueberry flavors, is a must-try dessert for spring and summer. This easy-to-make treat features a moist lemon cake base, zesty lemon curd, and a luscious blueberry syrup, all topped with a light whipped cream. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or a dessert lover looking for a fresh and vibrant treat, this recipe is sure to impress.
The combination of lemon and blueberry creates a perfect balance of citrusy brightness and fruity sweetness in every bite. Whether you choose to make this cake from scratch or opt for some time-saving shortcuts, the result is a soft and moist cake that bursts with flavor. If you enjoy the pairing of lemon and blueberry in other recipes like Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake, Scones, No-Bake Cheesecake, or Bread, this lemon blueberry poke cake will quickly become another favorite in your collection.
Ingredients
Lemon blueberry poke cake is a delightful blend of flavors perfect for the warmer seasons. Below are the ingredients you’ll need to create this delectable dessert.
For the Lemon Cake
- 1 box lemon cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup sour cream
For the Blueberry Filling
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 cups butter, room temperature
- 4 to 6 cups powdered sugar (add as needed for desired consistency)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream (may need to adjust based on butter used)
Equipment Needed
To make the delicious lemon blueberry poke cake, you will need the following equipment:
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Toothpick or skewer for poking holes
- Saucepan for making blueberry syrup
- Spatula for spreading lemon curd
- Refrigerator for chilling the cake
Preparation Steps
In preparation for this delightful Lemon Blueberry Poke Cake, two key steps are essential: making the blueberry filling and baking the lemon cake. These steps will guide you through creating a perfectly balanced dessert that captures the essence of spring and summer.
Preparing the Blueberry Filling
- In a medium saucepan, combine blueberries, lemon zest, lemon juice, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Stir the mixture well to combine all the flavors.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it starts to bubble and thicken. This process will enhance the natural sweetness of the blueberries.
- Once the filling has thickened, remove it from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for an added layer of flavor. Set the blueberry filling aside while you prepare the lemon cake.
- Follow the instructions on the lemon cake mix box to prepare the cake batter, ensuring it is mixed thoroughly for a moist and flavorful base.
- Once the cake batter is ready, pour it into a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake according to the package directions until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- After baking, allow the cake to cool for 5 minutes before proceeding to poke holes into the warm cake using the handle of a wooden spoon.
By following these detailed preparation steps, you will be on your way to creating a Lemon Blueberry Poke Cake that showcases the perfect harmony of zesty lemon and sweet blueberry flavors.
Directions
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this delectable lemon blueberry poke cake.
Making the Cake Base
To kick off this delightful dessert, we’ll start by preparing the moist and zesty lemon cake base. Follow these steps for a perfect foundation:
- Beat the egg whites until soft peaks form and set aside.
- Whisk the egg yolks with sugar until pale and creamy.
- Sift in the flour mixed with baking powder and mix.
- Add oil and water, then mix with an electric mixer until smooth.
- Gently fold in the whipped egg whites.
- Pour the batter into a rectangular baking dish and bake at 375°F (180°C) for about 15 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool down before using the back of a wooden spoon to pierce holes all over the cake.
Adding the Blueberry Filling
Next, we’ll introduce the mouthwatering blueberry filling to infuse fruity sweetness into our poke cake. Here’s how to create the blueberry layer:
- Combine sugar, water, lemon juice, and fresh or frozen blueberries in a saucepan.
- Cook the mixture until it thickens, adding cornstarch or sweet rice flour for consistency.
- Allow the blueberry sauce to cool down slightly before pouring it over the pierced cake, ensuring the holes are wide enough for the sauce to soak in effectively.
- Place the cake in the fridge to chill before moving on to the next step.
Applying the Frosting
The final touch to elevate your lemon blueberry poke cake is applying the luscious lemon cream cheese frosting. For the perfect finishing layer, follow these simple instructions:
- Prepare a lemon cream cheese frosting by mixing together ricotta, mascarpone, powdered sugar, and lemon juice.
- Frost the chilled cake with the lemon cream cheese mixture, spreading it evenly over the blueberry-filled cake base.
- Top the frosted cake with additional fresh blueberries and lemon zest for a burst of flavor and a visually appealing finish.
By following these directions meticulously, you’ll create a stunning lemon blueberry poke cake that combines zesty lemon, sweet blueberries, and creamy frosting in every irresistible bite. Don’t forget to chill the cake before serving to allow the flavors to meld and intensify for a truly decadent dessert experience.
Serving and Storage
How to Serve
Once your lemon blueberry poke cake is ready, it’s best served chilled. The flavors meld together beautifully when cold, enhancing the overall taste. When ready to serve, slice the cake into squares and plate each piece individually. For an added touch, you can garnish each serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of fresh blueberries.
Storing Your Cake
To store leftover lemon blueberry poke cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days to maintain its freshness. If you need to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy the frozen cake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
Conclusion
Creating a lemon blueberry poke cake is a delightful experience that results in a visually appealing and flavorful dessert. From the moist lemon cake base to the blueberry filling and lemon cream cheese frosting, each step adds layers of taste and texture. Serving the cake chilled enhances the flavors, making each bite a refreshing treat. Garnish with whipped cream or fresh blueberries for an extra touch of sweetness. Remember to store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for future enjoyment. With its combination of citrusy lemon and juicy blueberries, this cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy the process of making this delicious treat and savor every bite!