This vibrant Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. Bursting with fresh citrus flavor and juicy blueberries, it’s both refreshing and delightful. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a summer gathering, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake will impress everyone. The rich cream cheese frosting beautifully complements the tangy lemon and sweet blueberries, making it an irresistible choice for spring and summer festivities.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright and Flavorful: The combination of lemon and blueberries creates a delightful taste that’s both tangy and sweet.
- Moist Texture: The cake layers are soft and moist, thanks to ingredients like buttermilk and oil.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for birthdays, picnics, or just a weekend treat at home.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can bake this cake even if you’re a beginner.
- Stunning Presentation: This layered cake not only tastes great but also looks beautiful on any dessert table.
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth, gather the essential tools listed below.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Three 8-inch round cake pans
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes beating butter and sugar easy, ensuring the batter is light and fluffy.
- Cake pans: Essential for baking uniform layers that stack well for assembling the cake.
- Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients without making a mess.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1¼ cups (250g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
- 6 tablespoons (90ml) vegetable, canola, or avocado oil
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour, spooned & leveled
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup (180ml) buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- ½ cup (120ml) lemon juice, room temperature (about 3–4 lemons)
- 1½ cups (210g) fresh blueberries
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, to toss with blueberries
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz (226g) full-fat brick cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3½ cups (420g) confectioners’ sugar
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How to Make Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake
Step 1: Prep the Pans
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease three 8-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper rounds and grease the parchment as well to ensure easy release.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
In a large bowl with a mixer:
1. Beat the softened butter on high until creamy (about 1 minute).
2. Add granulated and brown sugars; beat on medium-high speed for 2 minutes until combined.
3. Beat in the oil for another 3 minutes until light and creamy.
4. Add eggs and vanilla; beat on medium until fully incorporated (about 1 minute). Scrape down the sides as needed.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 4: Combine
Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture:
1. Beat on low just until combined.
2. Then add buttermilk, lemon zest, and lemon juice; mix until incorporated—do not overmix.
Step 5: Add Blueberries
Toss blueberries with 1 tablespoon of flour to prevent sinking:
1. Gently fold them into the thick batter.
Step 6: Bake
Divide batter evenly among prepared cake pans:
1. Bake for 22–26 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Cool completely in the pans before assembling.
Step 7: Make the Frosting
In a medium bowl:
1. Beat cream cheese and butter together on medium speed for about 3 minutes until smooth.
2. Add confectioners’ sugar, cream, vanilla, and salt; start on low speed then beat on high for another 3 minutes until fluffy.
Step 8: Assemble the Cake
Slice off domed tops of cakes if necessary:
1. Place one layer on your serving plate; spread frosting on top.
2. Repeat with second and third layers; frost top and sides with remaining frosting.
3. Garnish with extra blueberries or lemon slices if desired.
Chill the assembled cake for at least 45 minutes before slicing to help it hold its shape. Enjoy your delicious Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake!
How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake
Serving a Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake is all about enhancing its refreshing flavors and beautiful presentation. This cake shines during gatherings, celebrations, or even a simple family meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to make your dessert experience even more enjoyable.
Pair with Fresh Fruits
- Mixed Berries: Serve alongside a bowl of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a burst of color and flavor.
- Citrus Slices: Add slices of lemon or orange to complement the cake’s citrus notes and provide a zesty contrast.
Offer Creamy Sauces
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream can balance the tangy frosting beautifully.
- Lemon Curd Drizzle: Drizzling lemon curd over each slice enhances the lemony flavor and adds a luxurious touch.
Garnish Creatively
- Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves can elevate the presentation and add a refreshing aroma.
- Edible Flowers: Use edible flowers like pansies or nasturtiums for an elegant look that makes the cake visually stunning.
How to Perfect Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake
Creating the perfect Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure your cake turns out delicious every time.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs, butter, and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently combine ingredients when adding flour and liquids; overmixing can lead to dense cake layers.
- Toss Blueberries in Flour: Coating blueberries with flour before folding them into the batter helps prevent them from sinking during baking.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the cake layers to cool fully before applying frosting to avoid melting it away.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 45 minutes before slicing to help maintain its shape.
- Double the Frosting for Decor: If you want a thicker frosting layer or plan to pipe decorations, consider doubling the frosting recipe.
Best Side Dishes for Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake
While Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake is delightful on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some wonderful side dishes that work well with this cake.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a sweet touch that pairs perfectly with tangy lemon flavors.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits provides a nice contrast to the richness of the cake.
- Lemon Sorbet: The lightness of lemon sorbet serves as a palate cleanser between bites of rich cake.
- Yogurt Parfait: A yogurt parfait layered with granola and berries offers a healthy balance alongside dessert.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, particularly creamy varieties like Brie or goat cheese, complements sweet flavors beautifully.
- Tea or Coffee: A cup of herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee can enhance the overall dessert experience with warm beverages.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common pitfalls is essential for success.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined to keep it light and airy.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven baking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
- Ignoring Ingredient Temperatures: Using cold ingredients like eggs or buttermilk can affect the batter’s consistency. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
- Not Flourishing Blueberries: Skipping the flour toss for blueberries may cause them to sink. Toss them in flour to help suspend them in the batter during baking.
- Failing to Level Cakes: Uneven layers can make stacking difficult. Always level your cakes with a serrated knife before frosting.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container.
- The cake stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake
- Wrap individual slices or whole layers tightly in plastic wrap.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat slices wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake so special?
The combination of zesty lemon and juicy blueberries creates a refreshing flavor that is perfect for any occasion.
Can I use frozen blueberries instead?
While fresh blueberries are recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen ones—just ensure they’re thawed and drained before adding them to the batter.
How do I make this cake gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup, ensuring you maintain the recipe’s balance.
What is the best way to frost my Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake?
For smooth frosting, ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature. Use an offset spatula for even spreading and consider chilling the cake slightly before frosting.
Can I customize this Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake?
Absolutely! You can add lemon curd between layers or top it with whipped cream and extra berries for added flair.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake is a vibrant treat that brings joy to any celebration. Its moist layers, packed with fresh blueberries and zesty lemon flavor, make it versatile enough for various occasions. Feel free to customize it with additional toppings or flavors to suit your taste!
Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake
- Total Time: 56 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
Delight in the refreshing flavors of this Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake, a perfect dessert for any occasion. With bright notes of citrus and juicy blueberries, this cake is a delightful balance of tangy and sweet. The moist layers are complemented by rich cream cheese frosting, creating an irresistible treat that will impress at birthdays, picnics, or casual family gatherings. Easy to make and visually stunning, this layered cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1¼ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- ½ cup lemon juice
- 1½ cups fresh blueberries
- 8 oz cream cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease three 8-inch round cake pans and line bottoms with parchment paper.
- In a stand mixer, beat softened butter until creamy. Add sugars and mix until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate eggs and vanilla before adding dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt) alternately with buttermilk and lemon juice.
- Fold in blueberries coated with flour.
- Divide batter among pans and bake for 22–26 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
- For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth, then add sugar, cream, vanilla, and salt until fluffy.
- Assemble the cooled cakes with frosting between layers and all around.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 26 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
