Lemon Blueberry Cake Recipe: Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in the delightful flavors of summer with this exquisite Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting. This recipe is a true celebration of vibrant blueberries and zesty lemon, coming together in a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. The moist and tender cake layers, dotted with bursts of juicy blueberries, are beautifully complemented by the tangy and creamy lemon-infused frosting.

I remember the first time I made this Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting for my daughter’s birthday party—it was a hit! The combination of sweet blueberries and citrusy lemon creates a refreshing and irresistible treat that always leaves everyone asking for more. This recipe is a modern twist on a classic favorite, evoking fond memories of summers spent picking wild blueberries with my grandmother.

Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply craving a slice of something spectacular, this Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting is sure to impress. The cake’s vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a standout dessert that captures the essence of summer in every bite. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a masterpiece that will have your guests coming back for seconds.

Quick Benefits

• Burst of summer sweetness with every bite
• Moisture maintained beautifully for up to 4 days
• Versatile – can use different berries for a unique flavor profile
• Stunning presentation with fresh blueberries, candied lemon slices, and mint

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Blueberry Cake Recipe: Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

• Burst of Summer Sweetness: This blueberry cake with lemon cream cheese frosting offers a vibrant color and a tangy flavor profile that is perfect for those who love a refreshing and sweet dessert.
• Impressive and Irresistible: The combination of blueberries and lemon creates a delicious and impressive dessert that is perfect for special occasions or when you want something truly spectacular.
• Moist and Flavorful: The cake maintains its moisture beautifully for up to 4 days when stored properly, ensuring a delicious treat even days after baking.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can use frozen blueberries, substitute with different berries, adjust the frosting’s tanginess to your preference, and even switch to vanilla cream cheese frosting for a unique twist.
• Stunning Presentation: Garnish the cake with fresh blueberries, candied lemon slices, and mint for a visually appealing dessert that is sure to impress guests.
• Pairing Options: This blueberry cake pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, sweetened whipped cream, or a refreshing beverage like homemade lemonade or sparkling prosecco for adults, offering a complete dessert experience.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the blueberry puree in advance, store it refrigerated, and bring it to room temperature before incorporating it into the batter, making it convenient for busy schedules or planned events.
• Visual Appeal: The optional pink coloring gel enhances the blue color of the blueberries, making the cake visually more vibrant and appealing, adding an extra touch of beauty to the dessert.
• Foolproof Baking: Easily check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is perfectly baked and ready to enjoy.

Ingredients for Lemon Blueberry Cake Recipe: Cream Cheese Frosting

Blueberry Cake

• 198g blueberries, pureed and reduced to 181g (cooked with 60ml water)
• 400g white sugar
• 8g baking powder
• 66g whole blueberries, folded into the batter
• 54g vegetable oil (e.g. canola oil)
• 227g sour cream
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 3g salt
• 342g cake flour
• 3g baking soda
• Optional: pink coloring gel for enhancing blueberry color
• 170g unsalted butter, softened

Lemon Cream Cheese Buttercream

• 863g powdered sugar, sifted and measured
• 226g cream cheese (brick, softened)
• 57g lemon juice (adjust as needed)
• 339g unsalted butter, slightly softened
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Optional: milk, to thin consistency if necessary

How to Make Lemon Blueberry Cake Recipe: Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Blueberry Reduction

Puree 198g blueberries and cook with 60ml water in a saucepan over medium heat until reduced to 181g (¾ cup). Cool completely before refrigerating for later use.

Step 2: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans

Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and flour three 20cm (8-inch) round cake pans that are 5cm (2-inch) deep.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

Combine 342g cake flour, 8g baking powder, 3g baking soda, and 3g salt in a medium bowl. Whisk together for 30 seconds and set aside.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Combine 227g of sour cream, 181g of blueberry puree, and 54g of vegetable oil in a separate bowl using a fork. Set aside.

Step 5: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer, beat 170g softened butter until smooth. Gradually add 400g sugar and mix at medium speed for 3-5 minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 6: Add Eggs

Add eggs one by one, mixing thoroughly after each addition until the yolk is fully incorporated.

Step 7: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Alternate adding the dry and wet mixtures to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry mixture (3 additions of dry, 2 additions of wet). Mix until smooth. Optionally, incorporate a small amount of pink coloring gel.

Step 8: Fold in Blueberries

Carefully incorporate 66g of whole blueberries into the batter, being careful not to overmix.

Step 9: Bake the Cakes

Evenly distribute the batter into the pans. Bake at 175°C (350°F) for 22–25 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with a few crumbs. Allow to cool in the pans for 5–10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 10: Prepare Lemon Cream Cheese Buttercream

In a mixing bowl, cream softened butter. Add cream cheese and blend until combined. Gradually mix in sifted powdered sugar, followed by lemon juice and zest. Avoid overmixing. Chill if needed.

Storage Tips

To properly store the Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting, it is essential to refrigerate it due to the cream cheese frosting. After frosting the cake, allow it to set in the refrigerator for around 20 minutes to firm up the frosting. To maintain freshness, cover the cake loosely with plastic wrap or store it in a cake keeper. Before serving, ensure you bring the refrigerated cake to room temperature for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavors and texture, as the cold can dull the wonderful blueberry and lemon notes.

If you are using frozen blueberries for the puree, remember to thaw them completely before pureeing. The frosting’s tanginess can be adjusted to suit your preferences by varying the amount of lemon juice and zest. For those who prefer a less tangy frosting, vanilla cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with the blueberry cake layers. For an elegant touch and presentation, garnish the cake with fresh blueberries, candied lemon slices, and sprigs of fresh mint, along with a dusting of powdered sugar. This cake pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or lightly sweetened whipped cream and can be served with homemade lemonade or sparkling prosecco for a refreshing beverage pairing.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh blueberries are not available, you can substitute with frozen blueberries. Thaw them completely before pureeing and reducing them for the cake. This substitution works well without compromising the flavor or texture of the final dish.

If you don’t have cake flour on hand, you can make a substitution by using all-purpose flour. For every cup of cake flour, remove 2 tablespoons of flour and replace with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Whisk the mixture together well before incorporating it into the recipe. This swap helps mimic the texture and lightness that cake flour provides in the cake.

If you prefer a different flavor profile for the frosting, you can adjust the lemon cream cheese frosting by varying the amount of lemon juice and zest used. Feel free to increase or decrease these ingredients based on your personal taste preferences. Alternatively, if you prefer a milder frosting, a vanilla cream cheese frosting would also complement the blueberry cake layers beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

For a show-stopping presentation, serve slices of the Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting garnished with fresh blueberries, candied lemon slices, and a sprig of mint. Dust the plate with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream for a delightful contrast in textures. To elevate the experience, serve with a glass of homemade lemonade or a sparkling prosecco for a refreshing beverage pairing.

For a more casual yet equally delicious serving suggestion, cut the Blueberry Cake into squares and serve them at a summer picnic or backyard barbecue. These bite-sized treats are perfect for guests to grab and enjoy on the go. To add a fun twist, drizzle some extra lemon cream cheese frosting on top of each square and sprinkle with fresh blueberries. This interactive dessert is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike, making any gathering extra special.

FAQs for Lemon Blueberry Cake Recipe: Cream Cheese Frosting

Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Allow them to thaw first, then follow the instructions to puree and reduce them before use.

How should I store this blueberry cake?

The cake should be stored in the refrigerator due to the cream cheese frosting. Keep it covered to maintain freshness.

Can I substitute cake flour with all-purpose flour?

Yes, substitute by using all-purpose flour and replace 2 tablespoons of each cup of flour with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Whisk together before use.

What does the pink coloring gel do in the recipe?

The pink coloring gel enhances the blue color of the blueberries, making the cake visually more vibrant. It’s optional and can be omitted.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this delightful Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting as much as I do. The burst of blueberry goodness combined with the zesty lemon cream cheese frosting truly makes this dessert a showstopper at any gathering. Whether it’s a special celebration or a simple weekend treat, this cake is sure to impress your loved ones.

Remember, baking is not just about following a recipe but also about creating memories and sharing moments of joy with others. So take your time, enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to put your own spin on this Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting. Happy baking!