Name: Lemon Blueberry Cake That Will Brighten Your Day
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (room temperature); 2 cups Granulated Sugar; 4 large Eggs (room temperature); 1 cup Sour Cream (can substitute with plain yogurt); ½ cup Vegetable Oil; 2 ½ cups Cake Flour (can substitute with all-purpose flour); 2 ½ teaspoons Baking Powder; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Buttermilk (can substitute with milk mixed with vinegar); 2 lemons Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest (from fresh lemons); 1 ½ cups Fresh Blueberries (avoid frozen berries); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (room temperature); 8 ounces Cream Cheese; 4 cups Powdered Sugar; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 lemon Lemon Juice; 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest; Lemon Slices (optional); Blueberries (optional)

The scent of fresh blueberries mingling with zesty lemon is like a mini vacation in your kitchen. My heart races at the thought of presenting a slice of this Lemon Blueberry Cake, a true showstopper with its light, fluffy layers and creamy lemon-infused cream cheese frosting. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, this cake is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly easy to whip up. Plus, it’s a delightful way to celebrate the vibrant flavors of the season! If you’re ready to bring a slice of sunshine to your table, let’s dive into how to create this refreshing treat that’s sure to impress your family and friends. What do you think—are you ready to bake your way to bliss?

Why is this Lemon Blueberry Cake special?

Citrusy Delight: The bright lemon flavor shines through every bite, balancing perfectly with sweet blueberries.
Light & Fluffy Texture: This cake’s airy layers ensure a melt-in-your-mouth experience that elevates any gathering.
Creamy Frosting: The luscious cream cheese frosting is a game-changer, adding tang and creaminess that complements the citrus beautifully.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be a baking pro in no time!
Versatile Variations: Want to switch things up? You can easily replace blueberries with raspberries or strawberries for a fruity twist.
This recipe is not just delicious; it’s a must-try for spring and summer celebrations. If you love cakes that wow guests, this one fits the bill! Plus, consider pairing it with Lemon Butter Fish for a delightful meal experience!

Lemon Blueberry Cake Ingredients

• Here’s what you’ll need to create this zesty delight!

For the Cake

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; you can use salted butter if necessary but reduce added salt.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps maintain tenderness.
Eggs – Contributes structure and moisture; using room temperature eggs yields better results.
Sour Cream – Adds moisture and a slight tang; plain yogurt can be used as a substitute.
Vegetable Oil – Increases moistness and adds a tender texture.
Cake Flour – Creates a light and tender crumb; can substitute with all-purpose flour, but it may result in a denser texture.
Baking Powder – Provides essential leavening for the cake.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor beautifully.
Buttermilk – Adds moisture and a tangy flavor; you can use milk mixed with a splash of vinegar as a substitute.
Lemon Juice – Infuses the cake with tartness and enhances flavor; freshly squeezed is recommended for the best results.
Lemon Zest – Boosts the lemon flavor intensity immensely.
Fresh Blueberries – Adds natural sweetness and bursts of flavor; avoid frozen blueberries as they may bleed into the batter.

For the Frosting

Unsalted Butter (Frosting) – Serves as a creamy base for the frosting.
Cream Cheese – Adds tanginess and rich creaminess to the frosting.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting while helping to achieve a smooth texture.
Salt – Balances out the sweetness for a better flavor profile.
Lemon Juice (Frosting) – Reinforces the cake’s lemon flavor, bringing harmony to the dessert.
Lemon Zest (Frosting) – Enhances the aromatic and flavor profile of the frosting.

For Decoration

Lemon Slices & Blueberries – Optional garnishes that not only look beautiful but also add a fresh touch.

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get baking this fabulous Lemon Blueberry Cake! 🍰

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Blueberry Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 335°F (170°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the light and fluffy Lemon Blueberry Cake. While the oven warms up, prepare three 7-inch cake pans by spraying them with cooking spray and lining the bottoms with parchment paper. This will ensure your cakes release easily once baked.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together 1 cup of room temperature unsalted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar on medium speed. Beat this mixture for about 2 minutes, or until it becomes light and fluffy. The airy texture you achieve here is essential for the perfect cake.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, add 4 large eggs, 1 cup of sour cream, and ½ cup of vegetable oil to the creamed butter and sugar. Mix them in on medium-low speed until each ingredient is well combined, stopping to scrape the sides of the bowl as needed. This will create a smooth base for your Lemon Blueberry Cake.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of cake flour, 2 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This mixture is crucial for creating a tender crumb in your cake. Gently mixing the dry ingredients separately helps ensure even distribution before adding them to the wet mixture.

Step 5: Mix Buttermilk and Lemon
In a liquid measuring cup, combine 1 cup of buttermilk, the juice of 2 lemons, and the zest of those lemons. This zesty mixture will enhance the flavor of your Lemon Blueberry Cake. Pour this into the mixing bowl in two increments, alternating with the flour mixture, mixing only until just combined to avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Fold in the Blueberries
Once the flour and buttermilk mixtures are combined, fold in 1 ½ cups of fresh blueberries gently using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix, as you don’t want to crush the blueberries. This step ensures that the juicy bursts of fruit remain intact throughout the cake.

Step 7: Bake the Cake
Evenly divide the batter between the three prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cakes should be golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed.

Step 8: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 15 minutes. After this, gently run a knife around the edges and turn the cakes out onto wire racks to cool completely. This step is essential for preventing sogginess and ensuring that your Lemon Blueberry Cake maintains its structure.

Step 9: Prepare the Frosting
For the cream cheese frosting, beat together 1 cup of room temperature unsalted butter and 8 ounces of cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth. Gradually add 4 cups of powdered sugar, a pinch of salt, and the juice and zest of 1 lemon. Mix until fluffy and creamy, making sure it’s spreadable for the cake layers.

Step 10: Assemble the Cake
Once the cake layers are completely cooled, stack them with a generous amount of frosting in between each layer. Use a spatula to apply a thin crumb coat over the entire cake, then refrigerate for 30 minutes. This locks in crumbs and prepares the surface for a smooth final layer of frosting.

Step 11: Frost the Exterior
After chilling, apply a thicker layer of frosting to the outside of the cake, smoothing it with a spatula to create an even finish. Take your time with this step; it enhances the overall presentation of your Lemon Blueberry Cake.

Step 12: Decorate and Serve
For a beautiful touch, decorate the top of the cake with lemon slices and a few blueberries if desired. This adds a pop of color and freshness. Now your Lemon Blueberry Cake is ready to be served, brightening up any gathering with its vibrant flavors!

Make Ahead Options

These Lemon Blueberry Cake components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance; simply allow them to cool completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. The frosting can also be prepared and stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just spread the chilled cream cheese frosting between the layers and on the exterior. For the best results, let the cake sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to ensure it’s just as delicious as when freshly made!

Lemon Blueberry Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these fun twists on the classic Lemon Blueberry Cake!

Berry Bonanza: Swap fresh blueberries for raspberries or strawberries for a delightful fruity variation. Each bite will surprise your taste buds with different flavors!
Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of finely chopped walnuts or almonds to the batter for added texture and a delicious nutty flavor. Just imagine the satisfying crunch with every slice!
Zesty Burst: Boost the lemon flavor by adding 1 teaspoon of lemon extract to the batter. It’s a delightful way to make that citrus shine even brighter.
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free cream cheese in the frosting. This way, you can satisfy your loved ones who are avoiding dairy without skimping on taste!
Lemon Coconut: Incorporate ½ cup of shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical twist that complements the lemon beautifully. It’s like a mini vacation in your mouth!
Mini Cakes: Transform this recipe into cupcakes—just reduce the baking time to 18-22 minutes. These adorable treats are perfect for a party or as a sweet surprise in lunchboxes!
Choco-Lemon Fusion: Add ½ cup of cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate version. The rich chocolate and citrus combination is a decadent way to please everyone at the table!
Extra Creamy: Mix in some lemon curd between cake layers for an extra layer of tartness and creaminess that brings a fresh burst of lemon flavor in every forkful.

If you’re eager for more delightful recipes, why not try pairing this cake with a side of Lemon Butter Fish for a refreshing dinner idea? Or indulge in a slice of Ube Mochi Cake for dessert!

Tips for the Best Lemon Blueberry Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better texture in your Lemon Blueberry Cake.
Don’t Overmix: Gently fold in the blueberries without crushing them, and mix only until combined to avoid a dense cake.
Bake Evenly: Rotate your cake pans halfway through baking for consistent heat distribution and even rising.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh blueberries and lemons for maximum flavor—frozen berries can lead to a soggy cake and uneven texture.
Cool Completely: Let your cakes cool completely before frosting to prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting into the layers.
Chill After Crumb Coat: Chilling the cake after applying the crumb coat helps set it before finishing with the final frosting layer for a smooth finish.

What to Serve with Lemon Blueberry Cake

Elevate your dessert experience by pairing this delightful cake with complementary dishes that tantalize the taste buds.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits enhances the cake’s fruity notes and adds a refreshing crunch. Toss in some mint for an extra burst of flavor.
Lemon Sorbet: The citrusy coolness of lemon sorbet creates a delightful contrast and cleanses the palate after each rich slice of cake. A perfect summer treat!
Iced Green Tea: This lightly flavored brew offers a soothing balance to the tartness of the cake, making it an ideal sipping companion. Serve it chilled with a slice of lemon for a perfect touch.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream complements the fluffy cake while its coolness contrasts beautifully with the warm textures. A scoop on the side takes indulgence to the next level!
Zesty Cheesecake Bars: The creaminess and tang of cheesecake bars echo the flavors in the cake while providing a different texture, enriching the overall dessert experience.
Almond Biscotti: For a crunchy contrast, pair your cake with these delightful biscotti, which offer a nutty flavor that enhances the fruity elements of the cake.
Coconut Macaroons: Their chewy texture and sweet coconut flavor harmonize beautifully with the cake, bringing a tropical twist to your serving table.
Sparkling Lemonade: A bubbly, zesty drink interplays perfectly with the cake’s flavors. The fizz adds excitement to your gathering alongside the sweet treat.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These indulgent morsels introduce a rich flavor that contrasts with the lightness of the cake, creating an unforgettable combination.

With these pairings, your Lemon Blueberry Cake will be the star of any gathering, inviting friends and family to savor every delightful bite.

Storage Tips for Lemon Blueberry Cake

Fridge: Store your Lemon Blueberry Cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps it fresh and preserves its delightful flavors.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before frosting or serving.

Reheating: If refrigerated, let the cake come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. You can also microwave a slice for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.

Serving Tip: For an extra refreshing experience, consider serving chilled or with a dollop of whipped cream alongside your lemon blueberry cake!

Lemon Blueberry Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe lemons and blueberries for this cake?
Absolutely! When selecting lemons, look for ones that are firm and vibrant yellow in color, without any dark spots. For blueberries, opt for those that are plump, smooth, and have a rich blue color. If any blueberries appear dull or have white spots, they may not be ripe. Fresh, high-quality ingredients are essential for that delicious flavor in your Lemon Blueberry Cake!

What is the best way to store leftover Lemon Blueberry Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay good for about 5 days. If you want to enjoy it later, take care to wrap the entire cake or individual slices in plastic wrap before refrigerating to keep moisture in. Remember, letting it come to room temperature before serving enhances the flavors beautifully!

Can I freeze the Lemon Blueberry Cake?
Certainly! If you’d like to freeze your cake, wrap the cooled layers tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This method will ensure they stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the cake layers overnight in the fridge before adding frosting or serving.

What should I do if my cake comes out dense or heavy?
Very! Dense cakes often result from overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients. To avoid this, always ensure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature, and be gentle when mixing the batter—especially when folding in the blueberries. If you do find your cake is too dense, you might try using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour for a lighter, fluffier texture next time!

Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking mix. Just ensure that the mix contains xanthan gum or a similar binding agent to mimic the texture of traditional flour. While it may change the flavor slightly, many of my friends have enjoyed this gluten-free twist on my original Lemon Blueberry Cake recipe!