Lemon Blueberry Cake

This Lemon Blueberry Cake is a true treat for the senses, blending the tartness of fresh lemon with the natural sweetness of blueberries. The cake is light, fluffy, and perfectly moist, with bursts of fresh blueberries in every bite. Its golden crust and delicate crumb make it a perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a summer gathering or a cozy afternoon tea.

The zesty lemon adds a refreshing touch that balances the sweetness of the blueberries, while the sour cream and milk ensure the cake stays incredibly moist. This cake is simple to make yet undeniably delicious—one that will impress guests and become a favorite go-to recipe in your baking repertoire.

Full Recipe:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

• ¼ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 stick unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 tablespoons lemon zest

• ½ cup sour cream

• ½ cup milk

• 1 ½ cups fresh blueberries (or frozen)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

4. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.

5. Alternate adding the dry ingredients with the sour cream and milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

6. Gently fold in the fresh blueberries (or frozen).

7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 260 kcal | Servings: 8 servings

Lemon Blueberry Cake: A Perfect Combination of Sweet and Tart

Lemon and blueberry are a classic pairing that brings a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors. A Lemon Blueberry Cake takes the best of both worlds, combining the fresh zestiness of lemon with the naturally sweet burst of blueberries. Whether it’s for a cozy afternoon tea, a family celebration, or a springtime gathering, this cake is sure to impress both with its flavor and its gorgeous presentation.

Why Lemon Blueberry Cake Is a Crowd-Pleaser

The popularity of lemon and blueberry together is no coincidence. The tartness of lemon cuts through the sweetness of blueberries, creating a harmonious balance that’s irresistible. The light, airy texture of the cake allows these flavors to shine without being overpowering. The cake’s vibrant yellow hue from the lemon zest and the burst of juicy blueberries make it visually appealing and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, a tea party, or a casual dessert after dinner. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make this cake a go-to recipe for beginner bakers and seasoned pastry chefs alike.

Tips for Perfecting Your Lemon Blueberry Cake

To ensure your Lemon Blueberry Cake turns out perfectly every time, a few tips can help elevate your baking experience.

• Use Fresh Blueberries: While frozen blueberries can be used, fresh blueberries give a burst of color and flavor that really stands out in the cake. If you must use frozen blueberries, make sure to fold them in gently and keep them frozen until right before adding them to the batter. This helps prevent them from bleeding into the batter and turning it blue.

• Sift Your Dry Ingredients: Sifting the flour, baking powder, and salt helps ensure the even distribution of the dry ingredients in the batter. This step can also help eliminate any clumps in the flour, leading to a smoother, more even cake texture.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the batter can cause the cake to become dense and heavy. Once the dry ingredients are added to the wet ingredients, mix until just combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps, as these will disappear once the cake bakes.

• Zest the Lemon Properly: When zesting the lemon, make sure to only take the yellow part of the peel. The white pith underneath is bitter and can affect the flavor of your cake. Use a fine grater or zester for best results.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smoother batter, ensure that your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can result in a lumpy batter that doesn’t incorporate well.

Variations on the Classic Lemon Blueberry Cake

While the classic Lemon Blueberry Cake is already perfect as is, there are several ways to tweak the recipe to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs.

• Vegan Lemon Blueberry Cake: If you’re following a vegan diet or looking for a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a vegan butter or coconut oil, and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) in place of regular eggs. You can also replace the sour cream with a non-dairy version, such as coconut yogurt.

• Gluten-Free Lemon Blueberry Cake: For those with gluten sensitivity, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use a blend that includes xanthan gum or guar gum, as this will help provide the necessary structure and elasticity to the cake.

• Lemon Blueberry Bundt Cake: If you prefer a fancier presentation, bake the batter in a Bundt pan for a beautiful ring-shaped cake. A Bundt cake can be served as a showstopper at events, and the shape provides an opportunity for creative decoration. You can even drizzle a glaze on top for extra sweetness.

• Lemon Blueberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: Add a layer of cream cheese frosting between the layers or on top of the cake for an indulgent twist. The rich, tangy flavor of the cream cheese pairs wonderfully with the citrusy lemon and the sweetness of the blueberries.

• Add Other Fruits: While lemon and blueberry are a fantastic pairing, you can mix things up by adding other fruits such as raspberries, strawberries, or even blackberries. The added fruits will contribute their own flavors and colors to the cake, making it even more exciting.

How to Serve and Enjoy Lemon Blueberry Cake

Lemon Blueberry Cake can be served in many ways depending on the occasion and your personal preferences. It’s a versatile dessert that pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages.

• Serve with Tea or Coffee: The fresh, zesty flavors of the cake make it an ideal pairing with a cup of hot tea or coffee. Serve it for afternoon tea, or as a light dessert after a meal. A cup of Earl Grey tea, with its citrus notes, complements the cake perfectly.

• Serve as a Birthday Cake: Its light, fluffy texture and vibrant colors make this cake an excellent choice for a birthday celebration. Add a few sprigs of fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.

• Add a Scoop of Ice Cream: For a more indulgent treat, serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or lemon sorbet. The cool, creamy texture of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, moist cake, creating a satisfying dessert.

• Top with Fresh Berries: Garnishing your Lemon Blueberry Cake with fresh blueberries, strawberries, or even a few edible flowers will elevate its visual appeal and give it that extra touch of elegance.

• Layer the Cake: For a more formal dessert, layer the cake with lemon curd or whipped cream for a rich, decadent experience. The acidity of the lemon curd balances the sweetness of the blueberries, creating a dessert that’s both tangy and creamy.

Conclusion

Lemon Blueberry Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the best of both worlds: the refreshing zing of lemon and the sweet, juicy goodness of blueberries. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, this cake is simple to make and offers endless possibilities for customization. The cake’s tender crumb and burst of flavor make it perfect for any occasion, and its vibrant colors are sure to make it the star of your dessert table. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a delicious and impressive cake that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So why not try baking a Lemon Blueberry Cake today and treat yourself to this irresistible, refreshing dessert!