This Lemon Blueberry Buttermilk Cake is a fresh, zesty treat that combines the tang of lemons with the sweetness of blueberries, all topped with smooth cream cheese frosting. A delightful dessert for any occasion, this cake’s fluffy texture and burst of flavors make it the perfect summer indulgence. Easy to make and incredibly delicious, it’s sure to be a favorite in your recipe collection.
Table of Contents
Why This Lemon Blueberry Buttermilk Cake Is So Special
What makes this Lemon Blueberry Buttermilk Cake stand out is the perfect balance of flavors. The cake is made using high-quality cake flour, which results in an incredibly soft and moist texture. Buttermilk contributes to its tenderness, while the lemon zest imparts a bold, fresh citrus flavor. The addition of blueberries elevates the cake, providing bursts of sweetness in every bite, while the cream cheese frosting complements the cake’s tartness with its creamy, slightly tangy flavor. This cake is ideal for family gatherings, summer parties, or any time you crave a light, flavorful dessert.
Ingredients for Lemon Blueberry Buttermilk Cake
• Cake Flour: This low-protein flour ensures a soft and tender cake. It’s crucial for the perfect texture.
• Buttermilk: Adds flavor and helps tenderize the cake. The acidity in buttermilk gives the cake a subtle tang.
• Blueberries: Fresh blueberries bring sweetness and a burst of color. Tossed in flour to prevent sinking in the batter, they keep their shape and flavor intact.
• Lemon Zest: Freshly zested lemons provide the cake with a vibrant lemon flavor without the bitterness of lemon juice.
• Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness and helps create a tender crumb. Make sure it’s softened before use.
• Eggs: Provide structure and moisture to the cake.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps with the batter’s texture.
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These leavening agents ensure the cake rises properly, giving it a light and airy texture.
• Salt: Enhances the flavor of all the ingredients.
Alternative Ingredients for Dietary Preferences
If you need to make this cake gluten-free, substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum to help bind the cake. For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based buttermilk alternative and vegan butter in place of the unsalted butter.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 335ºF (168ºC). Prepare three 6-inch cake pans by greasing them or using your preferred pan release method.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In one bowl, combine the buttermilk and vegetable oil. In another bowl, mix the eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and lemon extract. Whisk lightly to break up the eggs.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the cake flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add Butter: Gradually add chunks of softened butter to the dry ingredients and mix on low speed until the mixture resembles coarse sand.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the buttermilk-oil mixture to the dry ingredients and mix on medium speed for 2 minutes. This helps develop the structure of the cake.
- Add Remaining Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the egg mixture to the batter in three parts, mixing thoroughly between each addition.
- Add Blueberries: Wash and dry the blueberries. Toss them in a small amount of flour to prevent sinking. Gently fold them into the batter.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cakes cool on a wire rack. Once they are cool enough to handle, wrap them in plastic wrap and freeze for 60 minutes to firm up before frosting.

Tips & Tricks for a Perfect Lemon Blueberry Buttermilk Cake
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, including eggs and butter, are at room temperature to prevent the batter from curdling and ensure a smooth consistency.
• Don’t Overmix: Once you add the wet ingredients to the dry, mix until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can make the cake dense.
• Proper Cooling: After baking, allow the cake to cool slightly in the pans before transferring it to a wire rack. Freezing the layers for an hour makes them easier to frost and prevents crumbs from mixing into the frosting.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
This Lemon Blueberry Buttermilk Cake pairs perfectly with a variety of beverages. Serve it alongside iced tea or a glass of lemon-lavender lemonade for a refreshing summer treat. If you’re looking for variations, you can try adding a touch of lavender to the frosting or replace blueberries with blackberries or raspberries for a different twist.
For those who prefer a lighter frosting, swap the cream cheese frosting for a whipped cream topping. You can also add a touch of lemon curd between the layers for an extra layer of lemony goodness.
Seasonal and Health Benefits of Lemon Blueberry Buttermilk Cake
This Lemon Blueberry Buttermilk Cake is a perfect summer dessert that brings together the best of seasonal produce. Blueberries, packed with antioxidants, and fresh lemons provide a burst of vitamins and minerals, making it a slightly healthier dessert option without compromising on flavor.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual summer BBQ, this cake is the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and refreshing flavors. Enjoy a slice of this Lemon Blueberry Buttermilk Cake and savor the delicious combination of fruity, creamy, and zesty goodness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Lemon Blueberry Buttermilk Cake is a delightful dessert that balances fresh citrus and sweet berries with the smoothness of cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re hosting a summer party, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging in a homemade treat, this cake is sure to impress. Its tender texture, vibrant flavors, and light, fluffy crumb make it the perfect addition to your recipe collection. Plus, with a few simple tips and tricks, you can easily recreate this cake for any occasion. Don’t wait—bake this cake and treat yourself and your loved ones to something truly special.
FAQs about Lemon Blueberry Buttermilk Cake
Can I use frozen blueberries in this recipe?
Yes, frozen blueberries can be used instead of fresh. Just make sure to add them directly to the batter without thawing them. Coat the frozen berries with flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake.
What can I use as a substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum to provide structure to the cake. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers ahead of time and freeze them for up to 6 weeks. After baking, allow the cake layers to cool completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze. When you’re ready to serve, thaw them and frost as usual.
More Relevant Recipes
- Lemon Cream Cheese Bread: This flavorful bread is a perfect blend of tangy lemon and smooth cream cheese, offering a similar fresh citrusy taste with a creamy texture, ideal for breakfast or as a snack.
- Lemon Loaf Cake with Lemon Glaze: A moist and zesty loaf cake, this recipe combines lemon flavor with a sweet glaze, making it a great alternative if you’re looking for another lemon-inspired treat that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of blueberries.
- Lemon Raspberry Layer Cake: A delightful twist on the classic lemon cake, this version incorporates raspberry layers, adding a burst of fruitiness that complements the tangy lemon for a bright, refreshing dessert.

Lemon Blueberry Buttermilk Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Lemon Blueberry Buttermilk Cake is a fresh and fluffy dessert that combines the tang of lemons with the sweetness of blueberries. The cake is topped with a creamy and slightly tangy cream cheese frosting, making it a perfect treat for any occasion, especially in the summer.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces buttermilk, slightly warmed
- 3 ounces vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs, slightly warmed
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon extract
- 12 ounces cake flour
- 11 ounces granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 8 ounces unsalted butter, softened but not melted
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour for dusting blueberries
- 3 cups blueberries (fresh or frozen)
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 8 ounces unsalted butter, softened but not melted
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 32 ounces powdered sugar, sifted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 335ºF (168ºC) and prepare three 6-inch round cake pans by greasing or using a preferred pan release method.
- Divide the buttermilk into two separate containers. In the first, add the oil and set it aside. In the second, combine the eggs, lemon extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest, whisking lightly to break up the eggs.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine cake flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add chunks of softened butter and mix on low speed until the mixture resembles coarse sand.
- Slowly add the milk/oil mixture to the dry ingredients and mix on medium speed for 2 minutes to develop the cake structure.
- Gradually add the egg mixture in three parts, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- Wash and dry the blueberries, then toss them with a tablespoon of flour to prevent sinking. Gently fold them into the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pans, ensuring the blueberries are evenly distributed. Bake for 35-40 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean and the cake springs back when touched.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Wrap the cooled layers in plastic wrap and freeze for 60 minutes to firm up for frosting.
- For the frosting, beat together softened butter and cream cheese in a stand mixer until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until fully combined. Add lemon extract and salt, then mix until smooth.
- Once the cake layers are chilled, trim the domes off each layer, then frost with the cream cheese frosting. Decorate with additional blueberries and lemon slices, if desired.
Notes
- Ensure your ingredients, especially the eggs and butter, are at room temperature before starting to prevent curdling.
- If you do not have cake flour, you can substitute with all-purpose flour, but the texture may differ slightly.
- Blueberries can be substituted with other berries like raspberries or blackberries.
- For a more vibrant yellow color, a couple of drops of food coloring can be added to the wet ingredients.
- This cake can be made ahead of time and frozen for up to 6 weeks. Frost it after thawing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 432 kcal
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 254mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 62mg