A Taste of Summer Memories: Grandma's Beloved Blueberry Cake
This blueberry cake isn't just a dessert; it's a trip down memory lane. Every bite evokes warm feelings of childhood summers spent in the kitchen with grandma, the aroma of fresh lemon and sweet berries filling the air.
More Than Just a Cake:
This recipe is a cherished family tradition, passed down through generations. It's a reminder of simpler times, filled with love and the joy of baking.
Simple Yet Scrumptious:
The beauty of this cake lies in its simplicity. Made with pantry staples and fresh blueberries, it's a fuss-free recipe that yields an incredibly delicious result. Plus, it's easily adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs.
Make Ahead Marvel:
This cake is a dream come true for busy bakers. Prepare it ahead of time and store it at room temperature or in the refrigerator for a delightful treat whenever you crave a taste of summer nostalgia.
Ingredients:
- The Base:
- ½ cup Unsalted Butter, softened - Creates a moist and flavorful cake crumb.
- Sunshine in a Zest:
- 2 tsp Lemon Zest (or more to taste) - Fresh lemon zest adds a vibrant citrusy punch that complements the sweetness of the berries perfectly.
- Sweetness Defined:
- ⅞ cup Sugar, plus 1 tablespoon for sprinkling - Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps the cake achieve a tender crumb.
- The Binding Agent:
- 1 Egg, room temperature - Eggs bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake's structure.
- Vanilla Magic:
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract - Pure vanilla extract adds a touch of warm vanilla flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- The Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups Flour (reserve ¼ cup for tossing with blueberries) - All-purpose flour provides the structure for the cake.
- 2 tsp Baking Powder - Leavening agent that helps the cake rise beautifully.
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt - Balances out the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- The Star of the Show:
- 2 cups Fresh Blueberries - Sweet and juicy blueberries are the heart and soul of this cake.
- Buttermilk Bliss:
- ½ cup Buttermilk - Adds a slight tang and helps create a moist and tender cake.
Buttermilk Note:
The recipe includes a handy tip for making buttermilk at home using vinegar or lemon juice and milk.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
- Creaming for Success: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, lemon zest, and ⅞ cup of sugar until light and fluffy. This creaming process incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a lighter cake.
- The Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Prepping the Blueberries: In a separate bowl, toss the blueberries with ¼ cup of flour. This coating helps prevent the blueberries from sinking to the bottom of the cake batter.
- Dry and Wet Ingredients Unite: Whisk together the remaining flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Then, alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Berrylicious Batter: Gently fold the blueberries into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Baking to Perfection: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and sprinkle the top with the remaining tablespoon of sugar. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- A Slice of Summer Nostalgia: Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy this delicious cake, savoring the taste of summer memories with every bite!
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