Introduction
Bright, tangy, and bursting with juicy blueberries, this Blueberry Lemonade Buttermilk Cake is the perfect summer dessert. The combination of fresh lemon zest and juice with creamy buttermilk creates a tender, moist crumb, while the blueberries add a sweet, jammy surprise in every bite.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, serving afternoon tea, or simply craving a refreshing treat, this easy-to-make cake is a crowd-pleaser. Top it with a simple lemon glaze for extra citrusy goodness, or enjoy it as-is for a light, fruity dessert.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- Zest of 2 lemons (about 2 tbsp)
- ½ cup (120ml) fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
- ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk (or substitute: ½ cup milk + ½ tbsp vinegar, let sit 5 mins)
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1½ cups (225g) fresh blueberries (plus extra for garnish)
Optional Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Oven & Pan
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease an 8-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter & Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter, sugar, and lemon zest until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in vanilla extract.
4. Alternate Wet & Dry Ingredients
- In a small bowl, combine buttermilk and lemon juice.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk mixture to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
5. Fold in Blueberries
- Gently fold in blueberries to avoid crushing them and turning the batter purple.
- Optional: Toss blueberries in 1 tbsp flour to prevent sinking.
6. Bake the Cake
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Optional Glaze
- Whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
- Drizzle over the cooled cake and garnish with extra blueberries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes! Do not thaw them—toss frozen blueberries in flour before folding into the batter to prevent bleeding.
2. What if I don’t have buttermilk?
Make a quick substitute: Mix ½ cup milk + ½ tbsp lemon juice or vinegar, let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Can I make this cake ahead?
Yes! Bake, cool, and store covered at room temperature for 1–2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
4. Can I use a different pan?
- 9-inch round pan → Reduce baking time to 25–30 mins.
- Loaf pan → Bake for 45–50 mins.
- Muffin tin → Bake for 18–22 mins for blueberry lemon cupcakes.
5. Why did my blueberries sink?
- Toss them in 1 tbsp flour before adding to the batter.
- Ensure the batter is thick enough (not overmixed).
6. Can I add a streusel topping?
Absolutely! Mix ¼ cup flour, ¼ cup sugar, 2 tbsp butter, and ½ tsp cinnamon for a crunchy topping before baking.
7. Is this cake freezer-friendly?
Yes! Wrap tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- With a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Dusted with powdered sugar for a simple finish.
- Paired with whipped cream and extra lemon zest.
Conclusion
This Blueberry Lemonade Buttermilk Cake is a moist, zesty, and fruity treat that’s perfect for summer gatherings, brunches, or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up. The balance of tart lemon and sweet blueberries makes every bite irresistible.
Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 40 mins | Total Time: 1 hour
Calories: ~320 per slice | Servings: 8
Enjoy this sunshine-filled dessert with friends and family—it’s guaranteed to be a hit! 🍋💙
