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lemon blueberry layer cake recipe

Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Zac M., smiling male baking coach in a bright kitchen wearing a denim shirt and apron, arms crossedZac M.
This elegant lemon blueberry layer cake, topped with a creamy cheese frosting, is perfect for summer celebrations and berry-themed parties.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 slices
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9-inch round cake pan greased and floured
  • 1 electric mixer
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries tossed in 1 tbsp flour

Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  • In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  • Mix in the vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
  • Gently fold the flour-coated blueberries into the batter until evenly distributed.

Baking

  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting

  • Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until well combined. Add the vanilla and lemon juice, mixing until smooth.

Assembly

  • Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread with frosting, then top with the second cake layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake.

Serving

  • Decorate with fresh blueberries, lemon slices, and optional garnishes. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Storage

  • Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow to come to room temperature before serving.

Notes

Pro Tips: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. Toss blueberries in flour to prevent sinking.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use raspberries instead of blueberries or swap buttermilk with milk plus lemon juice.
How to Serve: Best served chilled or at room temperature with a side of fresh berries.
Storage & Freshness: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Bake the cakes a day ahead and frost on the day of serving.
Keyword cream cheese frosting, lemon blueberry cake, summer birthday cake