Delicious Lemon Blueberry Cake Recipe

Craving a slice of springtime perfection? Dive into the world of lemon blueberry cake recipes! Bursting with tangy lemon zest and juicy blueberries, this cake is a delightful balance of sweet and citrusy flavors. As the seasons change and blueberries come into their prime, this recipe is a must-try for any baking enthusiast.

Ingredients

Creating a delicious lemon blueberry cake requires the perfect blend of ingredients. From the cake itself to the creamy frosting, here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful treat.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-36 minutes (depending on pan size)
• Servings: 16

For the Lemon Blueberry Cake:

• ▢ 1 cup Oil (canola, vegetable, olive)
• ▢ 3 large Eggs
• ▢ 1 1/3 cups Buttermilk
• ▢ 2 Tablespoons Fresh Lemon Zest
• ▢ 1 Tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice *
• ▢ 2 cups Sugar
• ▢ 2 cups Flour (plus 2 Tablespoons for tossing with blueberries)
• ▢ 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda
• ▢ 1 teaspoon Salt
• ▢ 1 1/2 cups Fresh Blueberries

For the Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting:

• ▢ 1/2 cup Salted Butter (softened)
• ▢ 8 ounce pkg. Cream Cheese (softened)
• ▢ 5 cups Powdered Sugar *
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon Fresh Lemon Zest
• ▢ 1 Tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice

*Note: Adjust lemon juice and powdered sugar amounts slightly based on your taste preference.

Required Tools and Equipment

When preparing a delicious lemon blueberry cake, having the right tools and equipment can make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential items you will need:

For Baking the Cake:

• 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans (2 or 3)
• Non-stick cooking spray (or butter/flour/parchment paper for lining)
• Oven preheated to 325°F (163°C)

For the Cake Batter & Frosting:

• Electric mixer (hand or stand mixer)
• Large mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Zester or grater for lemon zest
• Rubber spatula
• Wire rack for cooling

For Assembly & Decoration:

• Offset spatula or knife for spreading frosting
• Cake platter or stand
• Cake decorating tools (optional)

Having these tools and equipment ready before starting the baking process will ensure a seamless experience and help you create a perfect lemon blueberry cake to impress your guests.

Preparation Steps

When it comes to creating a perfect lemon blueberry cake, precision in measuring ingredients and preparing cake pans is key to a successful baking experience. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a delicious and beautifully baked cake.

Measuring Ingredients & Initial Prep

• Use standard measuring cups and spoons for accuracy. While a scale can be used for flour, careful scooping and leveling works well too.
• Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent developing excess gluten, which can result in a dense cake. Mix the ingredients until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare your cake pans. Spray generously with non-stick cooking spray. Alternatively, use your preferred pan release method like butter and flour, or lining with parchment paper.

Directions

Bake this delicious lemon blueberry cake by following these straightforward steps to ensure a tender and flavorful dessert.

Making the Cake Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, add oil, eggs, buttermilk, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cream for 2 minutes using an electric mixer until well combined.
2. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the sugar, 2 cups of flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined, then fold gently with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix.
4. In a small bowl, carefully toss the fresh blueberries with the remaining 2 Tablespoons of flour. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking.
5. Gently fold the flour-coated blueberries into the batter.

Baking the Cake

1. Distribute the cake batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
   • If using three 8-inch pans, bake for 20-26 minutes.
   • If using three 9-inch pans, bake for 19-23 minutes.
   • If using two 9-inch pans, bake for 30-36 minutes.
2. Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Start checking at the lower end of the suggested baking time.
3. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes.
4. Run a knife around the edges of the pans to loosen the cakes, then carefully invert them onto the wire rack to cool completely before frosting. If you used parchment paper, gently remove it from the cake bottoms.

Frosting Preparation

Creating the perfect frosting is a crucial step in elevating the flavor of your lemon blueberry cake. The creamy and tangy frosting perfectly complements the zesty cake layers, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Mixing the Frosting

1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened salted butter and softened cream cheese using an electric mixer for 4-5 minutes until light and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl often.
2. Add the powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon zest.
3. Cream together on low speed initially (to avoid a sugar cloud!), then increase speed and beat until smooth and well combined.
4. Chill the frosting for at least 15-20 minutes before using, as this helps it firm up for easier spreading.

Frosting the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled down, it’s time to assemble and frost your lemon blueberry cake. Stack the cake layers, generously spread the frosting between each layer, and cover the entire cake with a thick layer of frosting. For a polished look, you can refrigerate the cake briefly after frosting to allow it to set slightly. When ready to serve, bring the cake closer to room temperature for the perfect slice of this delectable dessert.

Assembly and Decoration

Assembling a lemon blueberry cake is not just about putting layers together; it’s also an opportunity to create a visually stunning dessert. Here’s how to layer the cake and add the final decorative touches to elevate its presentation.

Layering the Cake

1. If desired, trim any slight domes off the cooled cake layers with a serrated knife for a flat, stable surface.
2. Place the first cake layer on a cake platter or stand. Spread a generous amount of the chilled lemon cream cheese frosting evenly over the top with an offset spatula or knife.
3. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and repeat the frosting process. If using three layers, add the third layer and frost its top.
4. Cover the entire cake (top and sides) with the remaining frosting. You can aim for a smooth finish or create attractive swirls.
5. Optional Crumb Coat: For an extra neat finish, apply a thin layer of frosting all over (the crumb coat), chill for 20-30 minutes to trap crumbs, then apply the final, thicker layer of frosting.

Decorating

1. While the cake chills (if doing a crumb coat) or after the final frosting layer, you can prepare decorations. Thinly slice a lemon, remove seeds, and pat dry if desired.
2. Decorate the frosted cake with the thin lemon slices and fresh blueberries. Edible flowers like pansies can also add a vibrant touch.
3. For a final touch of elegance, consider dusting the top of the cake lightly with powdered sugar just before serving.
4. Serve the lemon blueberry cake either at room temperature or slightly chilled, depending on preference.

Serving and Storage

Best Serving Practices

When serving this delectable Lemon Blueberry Cake, it’s often best to ensure the cake is near room temperature. Allowing the cake to sit out for 20-30 minutes before serving enhances its flavors and ensures a moist and tender crumb with creamy frosting. This cake is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful dessert for any occasion.

Storing the Cake

To store your Lemon Blueberry Cake, cover it tightly (using a cake carrier or plastic wrap/foil, being careful not to smudge the frosting) and keep it in the refrigerator due to the cream cheese frosting. It should keep well for 3-4 days. When ready to enjoy another slice, simply take the cake out of the fridge and allow the slice to come toward room temperature before serving. This storage method helps maintain freshness and ensures the frosting stays firm yet creamy.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Cake

To achieve the perfect Lemon Blueberry Cake, consider the following expert tips:

1. Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key. Opt for fresh blueberries if possible (though frozen work in a pinch, don’t thaw them first), tangy fresh lemon zest, and quality butter and cream cheese for the frosting.
2. Proper Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing the batter once the flour is added. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined to ensure a light and tender crumb.
3. Incorporating Blueberries: Tossing the blueberries in a little flour before folding them into the batter helps suspend them throughout the cake, preventing them all from sinking. Fold gently.
4. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs, buttermilk, butter, and cream cheese are close to room temperature (as specified) before mixing. This helps them combine smoothly and incorporate air properly.
5. Frosting Consistency: For a perfectly spreadable frosting, ensure the butter and cream cheese are well-creamed. Chilling the frosting helps it firm up. If it seems too stiff after chilling, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes; if too soft, chill longer. You can slightly adjust the powdered sugar amount for desired thickness.
6. Cake Assembly: Ensure cake layers are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting. Leveling the layers (optional) helps create a stable, even cake.
7. Decorating Tips: Get creative! Garnish with fresh lemon slices, a sprinkle of blueberries, or even a little extra lemon zest. Dusting with powdered sugar adds a lovely finish.
8. Serving and Storage: Remember room temperature for serving enhances flavor. Refrigerate for storage due to the cream cheese frosting.

Conclusion

I’ve shared valuable insights on creating a delectable Lemon Blueberry Cake that’s bound to impress your taste buds. By following the corrected recipe and expert tips provided, you can elevate your baking skills and produce a visually stunning dessert suitable for any occasion. The delightful combination of tangy lemon zest and juicy blueberries will surely tantalize your senses.

Remember to use fresh ingredients, employ proper mixing techniques, and pay attention to detail during assembly and frosting. With these guidelines, you’ll master the art of making a perfect Lemon Blueberry Cake that will leave your guests craving for more. Embrace the joy of baking and treat yourself to this irresistible treat that embodies the essence of freshness in every bite.

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