This Soft Buttermilk Blueberry Cake recipe delivers a wonderfully tender crumb and bursts with juicy blueberries in every bite. You’ll love how simple it is to create this delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. This soft cake recipe is a guaranteed crowd-plepleaser.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- All-purpose flour: Use cake flour for an even softer texture.
- Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a measuring cup, then filling the rest with milk to equal 1 cup. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Fresh Blueberries: Frozen blueberries work too; do not thaw them before adding.
- Unsalted Butter: Margarine can be used, but butter provides the best flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: You can reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet cake.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 ½ cups fresh blueberries, picked over
Optional:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest (for a brighter flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 30-35 minutes
- Total time: 50-55 minutes
- Servings: 8-10
- Tools needed: 9-inch round cake pan, mixing bowls, electric mixer (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
You will begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan, ensuring every surface is covered. This step prevents sticking and ensures a beautiful soft cake release.
2. Whisk Dry Ingredients Together
In a medium bowl, you will whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure these dry ingredients are well combined to ensure an even rise in your soft cake. Set this bowl aside for later.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, using an electric mixer or a whisk, you will cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air, contributing to the cake’s soft texture. You’re building the foundation for a delicious soft cake.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, you’ll beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. If using, stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest now. You want a smooth, well-combined mixture at this stage.
5. Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can make your soft cake tough.
6. Gently Fold in Blueberries
Finally, you will gently fold in the fresh or frozen blueberries. Avoid crushing them to prevent the batter from turning purple. This careful step ensures those beautiful bursts of fruit in your soft cake.
7. Bake Your Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. This will ensure your soft cake is perfectly cooked through.
8. Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and enjoy your wonderful soft cake.
Variation Ideas:
- Lemon Glaze: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
- Streusel Topping: Add a crumbly streusel topping before baking for extra texture.
- Mixed Berry: Substitute half the blueberries with raspberries or blackberries for a mixed berry soft cake.
- Orange Zest: Swap lemon zest for orange zest for a different citrus note.
Storage Instructions:
You can store leftover Soft Buttermilk Blueberry Cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days. For the best soft cake experience, bring it back to room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can! Do not thaw them before adding to the batter to prevent them from sinking.
My cake isn’t as soft as I’d like. What went wrong?
Overmixing the batter is a common culprit. Mix until just combined to keep your soft cake tender.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
Insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your soft cake is ready.
Can I make this as a loaf cake?
Yes, you can! Adjust the baking time accordingly; it may take a bit longer.
What is the best way to prevent blueberries from sinking?
Tossing them lightly in a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the batter can help.
Is this soft cake recipe good for beginners?
Absolutely! It uses simple techniques and common ingredients, making it perfect for those new to baking.