Lemon Blueberry Pisces Cake

Name: Lemon Blueberry Pisces Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup buttermilk; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 cup fresh blueberries; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Highlighted under: Sweet Dessert Recipes

When I first made this Lemon Blueberry Pisces Cake, I was completely captivated by the fusion of bright citrus and plump blueberries. I love how the tanginess of the lemon balances the sweetness of the berries, creating a delightfully refreshing dessert. It's perfect for any occasion, but especially during the warmer months when fresh berries are in season. Each bite transports you to a sun-kissed day, making it a must-try for cake lovers everywhere!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-25T18:18:27.701Z

I remember the first time I combined lemons and blueberries in a cake; the results were enchanting! The zesty lemon flavor paired with the juicy blueberries results in a moist, bursting-with-flavor experience. I also learned the importance of not overmixing the batter, as this allows the berries to stand out in each slice.

To elevate this cake, I like to add a light lemon glaze on top – it brings all the flavors together beautifully. It’s not only visually appealing but also adds an extra layer of sweetness that perfectly complements the tartness of the lemon.

Why You'll Love This Cake
Bright and zesty lemon flavor with sweet blueberries
Perfectly moist texture that’s easy to slice
Great for any occasion, from birthdays to casual gatherings

Understanding the Flavor Balance

The combination of lemon and blueberry creates a delightful equilibrium between tartness and sweetness. The zest of fresh lemon not only enhances the citrus notes in the cake, but it also acts as a flavor anchor that complements the natural sweetness of the blueberries. It’s crucial to use fresh blueberries, as frozen ones can release excess moisture, leading to a soggy cake. If necessary, you can use dried blueberries, but they will lack the juiciness that fresh berries provide.

Additionally, using buttermilk in the cake batter contributes to a tender crumb and moist texture. The acidity of the buttermilk reacts with the baking soda, creating a leavening effect that results in a soft, airy cake. If you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can substitute it with a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice, allowing it to sit for a few minutes to sour before adding it to the mixture.

Tips for Perfect Baking

When baking your Lemon Blueberry Pisces Cake, it’s vital to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before you start mixing the batter. This ensures even cooking from the moment the batter is poured into the pan. An oven thermometer can help you confirm that your oven is at the correct temperature, which is essential for achieving that perfect rise and golden edges you want in your cake.

Once your cake is in the oven, keep an eye on the baking time. Factors like pan size and oven calibration can affect how quickly your cake cooks, so check for doneness a few minutes before the 30-minute mark. Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. If the top is browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Ingredients

Before you start baking, gather all the ingredients listed below to ensure a smooth preparation!

For the Cake

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup buttermilk
Zest of 1 lemon
1 cup fresh blueberries

For the Lemon Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest

Now that you have all the ingredients, it's time to start baking this delightful cake!

Instructions

Here’s how to create your Lemon Blueberry Pisces Cake step by step!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest, mixing until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk, and mix until just combined. Gently fold in the blueberries.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Glaze

While the cake is cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until smooth.

Glaze and Serve

Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the lemon glaze on top and serve!

Enjoy your homemade Lemon Blueberry Pisces Cake with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try using fresh lemon juice in the glaze. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming with sugar.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your cake has cooled completely, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating it for up to a week. If you want to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and it will keep in the freezer for up to three months. To serve, allow to come to room temperature; you can also briefly warm individual slices in the microwave for a cozy treat.

Serving the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the dessert even further, adding richness that plays off the tart glaze. For a fun twist, try adding a side of lemon curd or a sprinkle of toasted coconut over the top for an additional layer of flavor.

Glazing Tips for a Festive Finish

The lemon glaze is a simple yet impactful way to tie all the flavors together. It's best to ensure the cake is completely cool before applying the glaze; this prevents it from melting into the cake and losing its visual appeal. If you want a thicker glaze, adjust the powdered sugar to lemon juice ratio until you achieve your desired consistency. A thicker glaze will create a lovely, glossy finish, while a thinner glaze can soak into the cake, enhancing moisture and flavor.

For added texture and visual interest, consider garnishing with additional lemon zest or even some whole blueberries on top of the glaze. Not only does this make for an eye-catching presentation, but it also enhances the flavor profile with a fresh burst of citrus and berry notes on every slice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries; just add them directly to the batter without thawing to prevent excess moisture.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute the buttermilk?

Yes, you can make a buttermilk substitute by mixing milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

→ How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done!