Introduction
Indulge in the exquisite layers of flavor found in this Blueberry Cream Cheese Layer Cake. With soft vanilla cake layers complemented by rich cream cheese frosting and fresh bursts of blueberries, this cake strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and tang. It’s ideal for celebrations or a delightful afternoon treat, promising to impress your family and friends with every slice.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
315g all-purpose flour
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
227g unsalted butter, softened
350g granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
240ml buttermilk
225g fresh blueberries (tossed in 1 tablespoon flour)
Cream Cheese Frosting:
225g cream cheese, softened
113g unsalted butter, softened
420g powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
30ml heavy cream
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 10-12 slices
Enjoy this luscious and velvety delight that brings together the rich flavors of blueberries and cream cheese in a beautifully layered cake. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of taste and texture that can be enjoyed on any occasion.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure your cake layers slide out easily post-baking. In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. In another mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process should take about 3-5 minutes.
Step 2: Mix in the Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Next, mix in the vanilla extract. Now, it’s time to alternate adding the dry flour mixture and buttermilk to the batter. Start with about a third of the flour mixture, mix until just combined, then pour in half of the buttermilk, and repeat the pattern, finishing with the remaining flour mixture.
Step 3: Fold in Blueberries and Bake
Carefully fold in the fresh blueberries that have been tossed in 1 tablespoon of flour. This helps prevent the blueberries from sinking to the bottom of the cake. Divide the batter equally between your two prepared cake pans. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the layers to cool completely in the pans.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, make the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream, continuing to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
Once the cake layers are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top. Carefully add the second cake layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake for a beautiful finish.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
For optimal slicing, chill the cake in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to firm up the frosting. Before serving, you may garnish the top of the cake with additional fresh blueberries for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Notes
Ingredient Tips
Ensure your butter and cream cheese are softened at room temperature for easy mixing and a creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful treat.
Storage
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds, or enjoy it chilled.
Notes on Fresh Blueberries
Choose plump, ripe blueberries for the best flavor. If fresh blueberries are not available, you can substitute with frozen blueberries, but ensure they are thawed and drained before mixing into the batter.
Cook techniques
Measuring Ingredients Accurately
Ensure precision when measuring flour, sugar, and other ingredients. Use a kitchen scale for best results, or spoon and level dry ingredients in measuring cups to avoid packing.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
Beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This technique incorporates air into the mixture, creating a light texture in the cake.
Incorporating Eggs
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air and ensures even mixing, which is key for a uniform crumb.
Alternating Dry and Wet Ingredients
Combine the flour mixture and buttermilk gradually, starting and ending with flour. This method prevents overmixing and helps to maintain the cake’s tender texture.
Coating Blueberries
Toss fresh blueberries in flour before adding them to the batter. This prevents them from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking.
Cooling Cakes Properly
Allow the cake layers to cool completely in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. This prevents sogginess and ensures a stable cake for frosting.
Making Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth before adding powdered sugar and other ingredients. This creates a silky texture that spreads easily.
Chilling the Cake
Chill the assembled cake for about 20 minutes before slicing. This helps the frosting set and makes cutting the cake cleaner and easier.
FAQ
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but decrease the baking time and do not thaw them before adding to the batter to prevent excess moisture.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! Bake and cool the cake layers, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate or freeze until ready to frost.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
You can make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with enough milk to make 1 cup. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to curdle.
How should I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for about a week.
Can I add other flavors to the frosting?
Yes! You can incorporate other flavor extracts, such as almond or lemon, or even add some fresh lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
Conclusion
The Blueberry Cream Cheese Layer Cake is a delightful treat that combines the luscious flavors of vanilla, tangy cream cheese, and fresh blueberries. This cake not only offers a perfect texture but also a balance of sweetness that makes it an ideal dessert for any occasion. Whether served at a party or enjoyed with a cup of tea, this cake is sure to impress family and friends.
Classic Lemon Cream Cheese Cake
Elevate your dessert game with a Classic Lemon Cream Cheese Cake. Use lemon zest and juice to infuse the cake layers with a refreshing citrus flavor, complemented by a rich cream cheese frosting.
Chocolate Blueberry Layer Cake
Combine rich chocolate cake layers with creamy blueberry frosting. The deep flavors of chocolate contrasted with fresh blueberries create a decadent and unique dessert experience.
Strawberry Cream Cheese Delight
Try a Strawberry Cream Cheese Delight by substituting blueberries with fresh strawberries. This vibrant cake will feature layers of moist vanilla cake paired with luscious cream cheese frosting and fresh strawberry slices.
Peach Melba Layer Cake
Transform your dessert into a summer dream with a Peach Melba Layer Cake. Incorporate fresh peaches and raspberries into your cake layers and frosting for a fruity and refreshing treat.
Banana Cream Cheese Cake
For a comforting twist, bake a Banana Cream Cheese Cake. Use ripe bananas in the batter and incorporate cream cheese frosting that perfectly complements the banana flavor, creating a moist and scrumptious dessert.
Coconut Cream Layer Cake
Dive into tropical flavors with a Coconut Cream Layer Cake. Infuse your cake layers with coconut milk, and top them off with fluffy coconut cream cheese frosting and toasted coconut flakes for added texture.
Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
For a classic option, whip up a Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. The spiced cake pairs beautifully with the rich cream cheese frosting, offering a delightful sweetness and warmth overall.
