This Zesty Lemon Blueberry Pound Cake is a delightful blend of tangy citrus and sweet berries, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Its moist, buttery texture and vibrant flavors will have everyone reaching for a second slice.
The magic begins with butter, which provides richness and moisture. Granulated sugar sweetens the cake while helping it achieve a fluffy texture. Eggs add structure and richness. The lemon zest and lemon juice infuse the cake with a bright, zesty flavor, while vanilla extract enhances the overall taste. The foundation of the cake is all-purpose flour, which gives it body, aided by baking soda and salt for a perfect rise. Buttermilk adds moisture and a subtle tang. To keep our blueberries from sinking, a little flour helps coat and distribute them throughout the batter.
This cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an extra citrus kick, drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the top. It's also fantastic served with a handful of fresh berries on the side.
First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F. Grease a 10-inch bundt pan thoroughly to ensure the cake releases smoothly after baking. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, resulting in a lighter cake.
Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures a smooth, emulsified batter. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This dry mix will be added to the wet mixture in parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so be gentle.
Before folding in the blueberries, toss them with a tablespoon of flour. This little trick prevents them from sinking to the bottom. Gently fold the floured blueberries into the batter, trying not to crush them.
Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Pop it into the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. You'll know it's done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.