This Lemon Blueberry Bundt Cake is a show-stopper! Bursting with fresh blueberries and bright lemon zest, this moist and fluffy cake is the perfect balance of tart and sweet. The buttermilk glaze adds a touch of creamy tang, bringing the whole dessert together in an irresistibly delicious way. Whether you’re making it for brunch, a celebration, or simply a weekend treat, this cake is guaranteed to impress. The best part? It’s easy to make but looks and tastes like it came from a bakery. One slice, and you’ll understand why it’s a favorite!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (1 stick), at room temperature
- ¼ cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt, at room temperature
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup low-fat buttermilk, well-shaken, at room temperature
- Zest of 2 medium lemons
- 1 ½ cups fresh blueberries
For the Lemon Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ½ tablespoon low-fat buttermilk
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure your oven racks are positioned to accommodate the Bundt pan.
- In a stand mixer, cream the butter and Greek yogurt together until smooth. Add the sugar and salt, beating until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture in three additions, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Stir in the lemon zest.
- Grease a 10- to 12-cup Bundt pan thoroughly with nonstick spray.
- Spoon ¼ of the batter into the pan, sprinkle with ½ cup of blueberries, and repeat until all the batter and blueberries are layered. Smooth the top.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a cooling rack. Allow it to cool completely.
- Whisk together the glaze ingredients until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake and serve.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Kcal: 356 kcal | Servings: 12-16 slices
The Magic of Lemon and Blueberry in Baking
Lemon and blueberry are one of the most classic flavor combinations in baking. The citrusy zing of lemon cuts through the natural sweetness of blueberries, resulting in a refreshing taste that isn’t overly rich or heavy. This makes it an ideal choice for those who enjoy fruit-forward desserts that don’t rely too much on sugar or heavy creams.
Lemon zest and juice are key components in this cake, adding brightness and acidity that enhance the overall flavor profile. Blueberries, on the other hand, provide a natural sweetness and a pop of juiciness that makes every bite exciting. When baked together in a bundt cake, these ingredients create a harmonious blend of tart and sweet, complemented by a soft and buttery texture.
Why Use a Bundt Pan?
A bundt cake is different from a traditional layer cake in several ways. First, the shape of the bundt pan allows for even baking and a beautiful, sculpted appearance. The design of the pan ensures that heat is distributed evenly, which helps the cake rise properly while maintaining a moist crumb.
Additionally, bundt cakes are easy to serve and require minimal decorating. Unlike layer cakes, which often need elaborate frosting and assembly, a bundt cake can stand on its own with a simple glaze or dusting of powdered sugar. This makes it a favorite choice for home bakers who want a cake that looks sophisticated but is relatively simple to prepare.
The Secret to a Moist and Fluffy Bundt Cake
One of the most common concerns when baking a bundt cake is ensuring it stays moist and tender. No one wants a dry cake, especially when working with citrus flavors that can sometimes be overpowering if not balanced correctly.
Here are a few key elements that contribute to the perfect texture in a lemon blueberry bundt cake:
- Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream – Adding Greek yogurt or sour cream to the batter introduces moisture and slight tanginess, which enhances the richness of the cake.
- Buttermilk – Buttermilk helps create a soft, delicate crumb while adding a subtle tang that complements the lemon flavor.
- Proper Mixing Technique – Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake. It’s best to mix the ingredients just until they are combined to avoid developing too much gluten in the flour.
- Fresh vs. Frozen Blueberries – While fresh blueberries are preferred for their natural juiciness, frozen blueberries can be used as well. However, it’s important not to thaw them before mixing into the batter, as this can cause excess moisture and bleeding of color.
The Role of Glaze in Enhancing Flavor
A bundt cake is often finished with a simple glaze rather than a heavy frosting. In this case, a light lemon buttermilk glaze perfectly complements the cake’s texture and taste. The glaze serves multiple purposes:
- It enhances the lemon flavor by adding an extra layer of citrusy tang.
- It adds a slight sweetness that balances the tartness of the lemons.
- It creates a visually appealing glossy finish that makes the cake look even more inviting.
For a thicker glaze, more powdered sugar can be added, while a thinner glaze can be achieved by increasing the amount of liquid (lemon juice or buttermilk). Some bakers also enjoy adding a pinch of vanilla extract to round out the flavors.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Lemon Blueberry Bundt Cake is a versatile dessert that can be served in various ways:
- With Coffee or Tea: The refreshing citrus notes pair beautifully with a cup of black tea, Earl Grey, or a light roast coffee.
- With Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds an extra level of indulgence.
- As a Brunch or Afternoon Treat: This cake makes an excellent addition to brunch tables alongside fruit salads, yogurt parfaits, or light savory dishes.
For special occasions, garnishing the cake with extra fresh blueberries, lemon zest, or edible flowers can elevate its presentation and make it the centerpiece of any dessert table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this cake is relatively easy to make, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overbaking the Cake – Baking the cake for too long can result in a dry texture. It’s best to check for doneness around the 45-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
- Not Greasing the Bundt Pan Properly – Because bundt pans have intricate designs, it’s crucial to grease every crevice thoroughly with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Using Too Many Blueberries – While it might be tempting to overload the batter with blueberries, too many can cause the cake to become too wet or sink in places. Distributing them evenly and lightly coating them in flour before adding them to the batter can help prevent sinking.
- Skipping the Cooling Step – Allowing the cake to cool properly before adding the glaze ensures the glaze sets correctly and doesn’t become too runny.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
If you’re a fan of light, fresh, and beautifully balanced cakes, this Lemon Blueberry Bundt Cake is a must-try. The combination of bright citrus, sweet berries, and a tender crumb makes it an irresistible dessert for any occasion.
Not only is it a visually stunning cake that requires minimal decoration, but it’s also a foolproof recipe that delivers a delicious outcome every time. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a celebration, or just a weekend treat, this cake is guaranteed to impress.
Conclusion:
The Lemon Blueberry Bundt Cake is a celebration of flavor and simplicity. Its moist texture, zesty lemon essence, and juicy blueberries make it a standout dessert that is as delicious as it is elegant. Easy to prepare yet visually impressive, it’s a great choice for both novice and experienced bakers.
By following a few key baking tips, ensuring the right balance of ingredients, and using a quality bundt pan, you can create a cake that is not only beautiful but also incredibly satisfying to eat. So next time you’re looking for a dessert that brings together freshness, sweetness, and a touch of tang, give this cake a try you won’t be disappointed!