Introduction to Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to baking. That’s why I absolutely adore this Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting. It’s not just a cake; it’s a delightful treat that brings joy to any gathering. Imagine the sweet, juicy blueberries bursting with flavor, perfectly complemented by the zesty lemon cream cheese frosting. This recipe is a quick solution for a busy day or a showstopper for special occasions. Trust me, your loved ones will be asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
This Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is a game-changer for busy lives. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just about 50 minutes from start to finish. The combination of sweet blueberries and tangy lemon creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck. You’ll love how it brightens up your dessert table!
Ingredients for Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your cake, providing structure and texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create that lovely, tender crumb.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture. Make sure it’s softened for easy creaming.
- Milk: Keeps the cake moist and adds a bit of creaminess to the batter.
- Large eggs: They bind everything together and help the cake rise beautifully.
- Baking powder: This leavening agent gives the cake its fluffy texture.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making it even more delicious.
- Fresh blueberries: The star of the show! They add bursts of sweetness and a pop of color.
- Cream cheese: Essential for the frosting, it provides a creamy, tangy base.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it that smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Lemon juice: Adds a zesty kick to the frosting, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Lemon zest: A little bit of zest goes a long way in brightening up the frosting’s flavor.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Feel free to experiment with ingredients! You can swap in whole wheat flour for a healthier twist or use frozen blueberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just remember, fresh blueberries will give you the best flavor and texture!
How to Make Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this delicious Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful dessert that will impress everyone.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly. While the oven warms up, grease two 9-inch round cake pans. I like to use butter or cooking spray to make sure the cakes come out easily.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, making your cake tender and airy. It should take about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to incorporate them fully into the batter. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. The aroma of vanilla will make your kitchen smell heavenly!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. This step ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is key for a well-risen cake.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, it’s time to combine the wet and dry ingredients. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Step 6: Fold in Blueberries
Gently fold in the fresh blueberries using a spatula. Be careful not to crush them! You want those juicy bursts of flavor in every bite of your blueberry lemon cake.
Step 7: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Step 8: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This step is important because frosting a warm cake can lead to a melty mess!
Step 9: Make the Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, let’s whip up the lemon cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
Step 10: Frost the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, it’s time to frost! Place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake. Don’t be shy with the frosting; it’s the best part!
Tips for Success
- Always use fresh blueberries for the best flavor and texture.
- Make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened for easy mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter; it should be just combined for a light cake.
- Let the cakes cool completely before frosting to avoid melting.
- For a fun twist, add a sprinkle of lemon zest on top of the frosting!
Equipment Needed
- Two 9-inch round cake pans (or one 9×13-inch pan for a single layer).
- Mixing bowls (a large one for the batter and a smaller one for the frosting).
- Electric mixer (a whisk works too, but it’ll take longer).
- Spatula for folding and frosting.
- Wire racks for cooling the cakes.
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious gluten-free blueberry lemon cake.
- Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based butter and milk for a vegan-friendly version.
- Berry Medley: Mix in other berries like raspberries or blackberries for a colorful and flavorful twist.
- Lemon Blueberry Muffins: Use the same batter to make muffins instead of a cake for a quick grab-and-go breakfast.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the frosted cake for an indulgent touch.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Serve alongside a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade to enhance the citrusy flavors.
- For a beautiful presentation, garnish with fresh blueberries and a sprinkle of lemon zest on top.
FAQs about Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! While fresh blueberries are ideal for flavor and texture, frozen blueberries can work in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter to avoid excess moisture.
How should I store the Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting?
Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator, especially since it has cream cheese frosting. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just cover it well to keep it moist!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance. Just let it cool completely, wrap it tightly, and store it in the fridge. Frost it right before serving for the best results.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
Is this Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting suitable for special diets?
This cake can be adapted for various diets! Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version or swap eggs for flaxseed meal to make it vegan. The possibilities are endless!
Final Thoughts
Making this Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories. The joy of watching my family’s faces light up as they take that first bite is priceless. This cake is a celebration of flavors, combining the sweetness of blueberries with the zing of lemon. Whether it’s a birthday, a family gathering, or just a Tuesday, this cake brings a little sunshine into our lives. I hope you find as much joy in baking and sharing this delightful treat as I do. Happy baking, friends!
PrintBlueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting delights your taste buds!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious blueberry cake topped with a zesty lemon cream cheese frosting that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in the blueberries.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then gradually add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, spread the lemon cream cheese frosting between the layers and on top of the cake.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh blueberries.
- Store the cake in the refrigerator if not consumed within a day.
- Can be made a day in advance; just frost before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting, blueberry lemon cake