Introduction

Blueberry cake with lemon frosting is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances the sweetness of blueberries with the tangy freshness of lemon. This cake is not only visually stunning with its vibrant colors but also incredibly moist and flavorful. Perfect for any occasion, it can be served at family gatherings, potlucks, or simply enjoyed at home with a cup of tea.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Flour – 2 cups
Sugar – 1 cup
Baking powder – 2 teaspoons
Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
Butter – 1/2 cup (softened)
Eggs – 2 large
Milk – 1/2 cup
Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
Blueberries – 1 cup (fresh or frozen)

For the lemon frosting:
Butter – 1/2 cup (softened)
Powdered sugar – 3 cups
Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons
Lemon zest – 1 teaspoon
Milk – 1-2 tablespoons (as needed)

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time – 30 minutes
Total Time – 45 minutes
Yield – 8-10 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes on medium speed.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Follow with the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine with Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 6: Fold in Blueberries

Gently fold in the fresh or frozen blueberries, being careful not to break them.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare the Lemon Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until creamy and well-combined.

Step 10: Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, spread the lemon frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.

Step 11: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake and serve it at room temperature. Enjoy the delightful flavors of blueberry and lemon!

Notes

Fresh vs. Frozen Blueberries

If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them before adding to the batter to prevent them from bleeding into the cake.

Buttermilk Substitute

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes.

Storing the Cake

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator or freeze it.

Adding Variations

Feel free to add lemon zest to the cake batter for an extra punch of lemon flavor, or experiment with other fruits like raspberries or blackberries.

Cook techniques

Measuring Ingredients Accurately

When baking, it’s essential to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results. Use a kitchen scale for dry ingredients and measuring cups for liquids to ensure precision.

Creaming Butter and Sugar

To achieve a light and fluffy texture in your cake, cream the butter and sugar together until it’s pale and smooth. This process incorporates air, which will help the cake rise.

Folding in Dry Ingredients

When adding dry ingredients to the wet mixture, use a gentle folding technique. This method helps to maintain the airiness of the batter and prevents overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake.

Using Fresh Blueberries

Incorporating fresh blueberries not only adds flavor but also moisture. Ensure you toss them with a bit of flour before adding them to the batter to prevent sinking.

Testing for Doneness

To check if your cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, the cake is ready. Avoid overbaking to keep it moist.

FAQ

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but it’s recommended to add them straight from the freezer without thawing to prevent color bleeding into the batter.

What can I substitute for lemon juice in the frosting?

You can use vinegar or a different citrus juice, such as lime or orange, as a substitute for lemon juice in the frosting.

How do I store leftover cake?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate it for up to a week.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake in advance and store it unfrosted. Frost it just before serving to ensure the frosting stays fresh.

What type of flour should I use for this cake?

All-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe, as it provides a good balance of structure and tenderness for cakes.

Conclusion

This blueberry cake with lemon frosting is a delightful blend of flavors that perfectly balances the sweetness of the blueberries with the zesty brightness of the lemon. It’s an ideal treat for gatherings, celebrations, or a simple afternoon snack. The moist texture of the cake complemented by the creamy frosting makes every bite a joy. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a cup of tea, this cake is sure to impress.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Blueberry Muffins

Start your day with delicious blueberry muffins that are quick to prepare and perfect for breakfast or a snack on-the-go.

Lemon Blueberry Pancakes

Combine the fresh tastes of lemon and blueberries in fluffy pancakes for a delightful morning treat that everyone will love.

Blueberry Lemonade

Cool off with a refreshing blueberry lemonade, combining sweet and tangy flavors for a perfect thirst-quencher.

Blueberry Cobbler

For a warm dessert, try a blueberry cobbler topped with a flaky crust, served best with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Lemon Basil Chicken Salad

Pair the flavors of lemon with tender chicken and fresh basil for a light and zesty salad, perfect for lunch or dinner.

Blueberry Smoothie

Blend blueberries with yogurt, banana, and a splash of lemon juice for a nutritious and tasty smoothie to kickstart your day.