Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake

This vibrant Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. With its soft and moist layers, brimming with fresh citrus flavor and juicy blueberries, each slice is a delightful experience. The cake is complemented by a rich cream cheese frosting, making it a standout treat for spring, summer, or any celebration. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, this cake will surely impress.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cake
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting
• How to Make Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake
• Step 1: Prep the Pans
• Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
• Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Add Blueberries
• Step 6: Bake
• Step 7: Make the Frosting
• Step 8: Assemble the Cake
• How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake
• With Fresh Berries
• Pairing with Ice Cream
• Coffee or Tea
• How to Perfect Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake
• Best Side Dishes for Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake
• Reheating Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make my Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake more lemony?
• Can I use frozen blueberries in this recipe?
• What is the best way to decorate my Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake?
• How do I ensure my cake layers are level?
• Can I substitute cream cheese frosting for another type?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lemon and blueberries creates a refreshing taste that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: This cake fits seamlessly into celebrations like birthdays, picnics, or family gatherings.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this stunning dessert.
• Moist and Tender: The buttermilk and butter ensure each layer remains soft and delicious.
• Versatile Decoration: You can customize the frosting and garnishes to match your event theme.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking your Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8-inch round cake pans (3)
• Mixer (stand or hand)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Parchment paper
• Cake stand or serving plate

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixer: A mixer saves time and ensures that your batter is mixed thoroughly for a fluffy texture.
• Parchment Paper: Using parchment prevents sticking, making it easier to remove the cake from pans without damage.
• Cake Stand: A cake stand allows you to showcase your beautiful creation while making it easier to frost.

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 (about 3–4 lemons), room temperature
• 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

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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 and line their bottoms with parchment paper rounds. Don’t forget to grease the parchment too for easy release later.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large bowl with a mixer:
1. Beat the softened butter on high until creamy for about 1 minute.
2. Add granulated and brown sugars; beat on medium-high speed for 2 minutes until well combined.
3. Mix in the oil for another 3 minutes until light and creamy.
4. Add eggs and vanilla; beat on medium until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides as needed.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture:
1. Beat on low just until combined.
2. Then add buttermilk, lemon zest, and lemon juice; mix just until incorporated—avoid overmixing.

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 comes out clean.
2. Allow cakes to cool completely in pans before assembling.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

In a large bowl:
1. Beat cream cheese and butter together on medium speed for about 3 minutes until smooth.
2. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, cream, vanilla, and salt—starting on low speed then beating on high for an additional 3 minutes until fluffy.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Level off any domed tops of the cakes if necessary:
1. Place one layer on your cake stand or plate; spread frosting over top.
2. Repeat with remaining layers; frost sides and top with remaining frosting.
3. Garnish as desired with extra blueberries or lemon slices.
4. Chill for at least 45 minutes before slicing to help it hold its shape.

Enjoy this delightful Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake at your next gathering!

How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake

This Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake is not just a delight to taste but also a feast for the eyes. Serving it can enhance its appeal, making your dessert experience even more memorable.

With Fresh Berries

• Top with Extra Blueberries: Scatter fresh blueberries on top for an added burst of flavor and color.
• Serve with Lemon Slices: Thinly sliced lemons can add a tangy touch and enhance the citrus theme.

Pairing with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream perfectly complements the cake’s tartness.
• Lemon Sorbet: For a refreshing contrast, serve with lemon sorbet that echoes the cake’s flavors.

Coffee or Tea

• Brewed Coffee: A cup of rich coffee balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
• Herbal Tea: Light herbal teas like chamomile pair well, providing a soothing finish to your meal.

How to Perfect Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake

To achieve the best results with your Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake, follow these essential tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until incorporated to keep your cake light and fluffy.
• Toss Blueberries in Flour: Coating blueberries in flour before adding them prevents sinking during baking.
• Level Your Cakes: Trim any domed tops for even layering and easier stacking.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating the assembled cake helps it hold its shape better when slicing.
• Double the Frosting for Decor: If you want to pipe decorations or have a thicker layer, consider doubling your frosting recipe.

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Best Side Dishes for Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake

While this delightful cake shines on its own, pairing it with certain side dishes can elevate your dessert table. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Lemon Curd Parfait: Layer lemon curd and whipped cream in glasses for a zesty dessert complement.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the cake.
3. Pistachio Macarons: These nutty treats provide a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the moist cake.
4. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: The sweetness of chocolate pairs wonderfully with lemon flavors, making it an indulgent side.
5. Cheese Platter: Include tangy cheeses like goat cheese or sharp cheddar to balance the sweetness of the cake.
6. Mini Cheesecakes: Individual servings of cheesecake offer a creamy alternative that can be flavored similarly to complement your main dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can lead to a dense cake. Always use room temperature ingredients for a light and fluffy texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can develop gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
• Not greasing the pans properly: Skipping the greasing step can cause your cake layers to stick. Ensure you grease and line your pans well for easy removal.
• Ignoring baking times: Overbaking can dry out your cake. Keep an eye on it and do the toothpick test a few minutes before the suggested time.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the cake before slicing can lead to messy pieces. Allow it to chill for at least 45 minutes for cleaner cuts.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap slices in foil and heat for 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake more lemony?

Adding extra lemon zest or juice will enhance the citrus flavor. Start with small amounts and adjust to taste.

Can I use frozen blueberries in this recipe?

While fresh blueberries are preferred, frozen blueberries can be used if tossed with flour first to prevent sinking.

What is the best way to decorate my Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake?

Use additional blueberries, lemon slices, or even edible flowers for decoration. A piping bag filled with frosting allows you to create beautiful designs.

How do I ensure my cake layers are level?

Once baked, use a serrated knife to trim any domed tops off your cakes before stacking them. This ensures even layers.

Can I substitute cream cheese frosting for another type?

Absolutely! You can use buttercream or whipped cream as alternatives if desired. Just keep in mind that they will change the overall flavor profile slightly.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious with its bright flavors and moist texture. It’s perfect for any celebration or simply as a delightful treat at home. Don’t hesitate to customize it—try adding different berries or adjusting sweetness levels according to your taste!

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