The Ultimate Lemon Blueberry Cake Recipe: A Burst of Citrus and Sweetness

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines the tangy zest of lemons with the sweet burst of blueberries, this Lemon Blueberry Cake is the perfect treat for you! With a moist, fluffy texture and a luscious mascarpone frosting, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a slice of heaven, this recipe is sure to impress.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create this Lemon Blueberry Cake, from the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to tips for making it ahead of time. Plus, we’ll share some fun variations and answer common questions to ensure your baking experience is a success.

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Why You’ll Love This Lemon Blueberry Cake

• Perfect Balance of Flavors: The tangy lemon and sweet blueberries create a harmonious flavor combination that’s refreshing and indulgent.
• Moist and Fluffy Texture: Thanks to the oil-based batter and buttermilk, this cake is incredibly moist and tender.
• Stunning Presentation: Layered with mascarpone frosting and lemon curd, this cake is a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.
• Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, this cake is straightforward to prepare, even for beginner bakers.

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Ingredients for Lemon Blueberry Cake

For the Cake:

• 2 cups (380g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (118 ml) vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 2 lemons (zested and juiced)
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) lemon extract (or vanilla extract)
• ½ cup (118 ml) light sour cream
• 2 ½ cups (350g) all-purpose flour
• 3 teaspoons (11.2g) baking powder
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1 cup (236ml) buttermilk (or regular milk)
• 1/4 cup (59ml) fresh lemon juice
• 9 ounces fresh blueberries (washed and dried)
• 2 tablespoons (15.6g) all-purpose flour (for coating blueberries)

For the Frosting:

• 2 ¼ cups (532ml) heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup (130g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) pure vanilla extract
• 16 ounces mascarpone cheese (cold)
• 1 jar (10 ounces) lemon curd

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare three 8-inch round baking pans by lining the bottoms with parchment paper and greasing the sides.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and lemon extract. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Add Lemon and Sour Cream: Zest and juice the lemons. Add the zest, 1/4 cup of lemon juice, and sour cream to the batter. Mix until well combined.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add half of the dry ingredients to the batter, followed by half of the buttermilk. Mix on low speed until just combined. Repeat with the remaining dry ingredients and buttermilk.
5. Fold in Blueberries: Toss the blueberries with 2 tablespoons of flour to prevent them from sinking. Gently fold the blueberries into the batter, reserving a few for the top.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Divide the Batter: Evenly distribute the batter among the three prepared pans (about 1 2/3 cups per pan). Drop the reserved blueberries on top.
2. Bake: Place the pans in the oven and bake for 20-23 minutes. Rotate the pans halfway through for even baking.
3. Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done. Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

1. Chill the Bowl: Place your mixing bowl and whisk attachment in the freezer for 5-10 minutes to chill.
2. Whip the Mascarpone: Beat the cold mascarpone cheese on medium-low speed until smooth. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, increasing the speed to high until soft peaks form.
3. Add Sweetness: Mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue beating until stiff peaks form.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Level the Cakes: Use a cake leveler to remove the domes from the top of each cake layer.
2. Layer the Cake: Place the first layer on a cake board or plate. Pipe a layer of mascarpone frosting and spread half of the lemon curd over it. Repeat with the second layer.
3. Frost the Cake: Add the final layer and apply a crumb coat. Use an offset spatula to frost the top and sides of the cake.
4. Decorate: Pipe florets on top using a large open round tip. Garnish with lemon slices and blueberries.

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 The Perfect Balance of Flavors in Lemon Blueberry Cake

One of the most remarkable aspects of this Lemon Blueberry Cake is its perfect balance of flavors. The tangy zest of lemons pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of fresh blueberries, creating a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent. The citrusy notes from the lemon zest and juice cut through the richness of the cake, while the blueberries add bursts of juicy sweetness in every bite. This combination makes the cake a delightful treat for any season, whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic or a cozy winter gathering.

The secret to achieving this balance lies in the quality of the ingredients. Fresh lemons are essential for the vibrant citrus flavor, so avoid using bottled lemon juice if possible. The zest of the lemons adds an extra layer of aroma and tanginess, enhancing the overall taste of the cake. Similarly, using fresh, plump blueberries ensures that every slice is packed with natural sweetness and a satisfying texture. If fresh blueberries aren’t available, frozen ones can be used, but be sure to toss them in flour to prevent excess moisture from affecting the cake’s texture.

Another factor that contributes to the cake’s flavor profile is the mascarpone frosting. Mascarpone cheese, with its rich and creamy texture, complements the tangy lemon curd filling perfectly. The frosting is lightly sweetened with powdered sugar and flavored with vanilla extract, allowing the lemon and blueberry flavors to shine through. Together, these elements create a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving more.

Tips for Baking the Perfect Lemon Blueberry Cake

Baking a Lemon Blueberry Cake that’s moist, fluffy, and bursting with flavor requires attention to detail and a few key techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time:

1. Measure Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so precise measurements are crucial. Use a kitchen scale for dry ingredients like flour and sugar to ensure accuracy.
2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring eggs, sour cream, and buttermilk to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth, evenly textured batter.
3. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, and use a spatula to fold in the blueberries gently.
4. Coat Blueberries in Flour: Tossing the blueberries in flour before adding them to the batter prevents them from sinking to the bottom of the cake.
5. Rotate Pans While Baking: To ensure even baking, rotate the cake pans halfway through the baking time. This is especially important if your oven has hot spots.
6. Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is done. Overbaking can dry out the cake, so keep a close eye on it.
7. Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the cake layers to cool completely before assembling and frosting. Warm cakes can cause the frosting to melt and slide off.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to baking a Lemon Blueberry Cake that’s moist, fluffy, and absolutely delicious.

 Creative Variations and Serving Suggestions

While this Lemon Blueberry Cake is already a showstopper, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your preferences or occasion. Here are some creative variations and serving suggestions to inspire you:

1. Berry Medley: Swap out the blueberries for a mix of raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries for a colorful and flavorful twist.
2. Lemon Glaze: For a simpler option, skip the mascarpone frosting and drizzle the cake with a tangy lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
3. Mini Cakes: Bake the batter in a muffin tin to create individual lemon blueberry cupcakes. Perfect for parties or portion control!
4. Layered Parfaits: Crumble the cake and layer it with mascarpone frosting and lemon curd in glasses for an elegant dessert parfait.
5. Seasonal Garnishes: Decorate the cake with edible flowers, mint leaves, or seasonal fruits like sliced strawberries or kiwi for a fresh and festive touch.

When it comes to serving, this cake pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a special treat, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cake also makes a stunning centerpiece for celebrations like birthdays, bridal showers, or holiday gatherings.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Berry Swap: Substitute blueberries with raspberries, blackberries, or a mix of your favorite berries.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk and a dairy-free yogurt alternative for a lactose-free version.
• Gluten-Free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

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Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

• Make Ahead: You can bake the cake layers up to 2 days in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature.
• Storage: Once frosted, store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.

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Nutrition Information

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 672
• Sugar: 60.1g
• Sodium: 370mg
• Fat: 32.6g
• Carbohydrates: 89.9g
• Protein: 8.4g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, but toss them in the batter while still frozen and skip coating them in flour to prevent excess moisture.

Can I make this cake in a different pan?
Absolutely! This recipe works well in a 9×13-inch pan or as cupcakes. Adjust the baking time accordingly.

How do I make homemade buttermilk?
Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

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Final Thoughts

This Lemon Blueberry Cake is a true masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant flavors, moist texture, and stunning presentation, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is approachable and rewarding.