Blueberry Cake

Blueberry Cake: a moist and flavorful dessert

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45-55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12-15

The history of fruit cakes is fascinating, and their popularity has grown exponentially in kitchens around the world. These simple yet flavorful desserts were created to take advantage of seasonal fruits, often made in families and communities. From apple cakes to raspberry or blueberry ones, each recipe has its own nuances and traditions. Today, I will guide you through a delicious blueberry cake recipe that will bring a touch of joy to every meal.

Ingredients needed

- 180 g melted butter
- 4 eggs at room temperature
- 150 ml sweet milk
- 115 ml olive oil
- 270 g sugar
- 400 g flour
- 500 g fresh blueberries
- Zest of one orange
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- A cube of butter (for greasing the pan)

Step by step

Step 1: Preparing the oven and the mixture

Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. This step is crucial to ensure even baking of the cake. In a large bowl, crack the 4 eggs and add the sugar. Use an electric mixer on high speed for about 5 minutes, until the mixture becomes thick and creamy white. This is when the sugar will completely dissolve, giving the cake a fine texture.

After the eggs and sugar have homogenized, add the melted butter (let it cool a bit first), olive oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix again until homogeneous. The olive oil will add a subtle flavor note, while the butter will provide a rich texture to your cake.

Step 2: Mixing the dry ingredients

In another bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is essential to prevent lumps in the batter. Mix the dry ingredients well, so the baking powder is evenly distributed.

Place a sieve over the bowl with the liquid ingredients and sift the dry ingredient mixture over them. Add the orange zest, which will add a touch of freshness and flavor. Use a spatula to gently mix until the batter becomes homogeneous. Avoid overmixing, or the cake will become dense.

Step 3: Resting the batter and preparing the pan

Let the batter rest for 10 minutes. This resting time allows the flour to absorb the liquids, making the cake fluffier. Meanwhile, prepare a 20x25 cm pan by greasing it with a cube of butter and laying parchment paper on the bottom. This is a trick that will make the cake easily come out after baking.

Step 4: Adding the blueberries and initial baking

After 10 minutes, add a quarter of the blueberries to the batter and gently mix with the spatula. These fruits will not only add a delicious taste but also a vibrant color. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and level it gently on top.

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the cake for 15 minutes. This initial time will help form a lightly browned crust.

Step 5: Adding the additional blueberries and continuing to bake

After 15 minutes, remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the remaining blueberries on top, gently pushing them into the batter. This will ensure that the fruits are nicely incorporated into the cake. Put the pan back in the oven and let it bake for another 30-40 minutes or until the cake turns golden and slightly firm.

Step 6: Cooling and removing the cake

Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. This step is important to allow the cake to stabilize. Use a knife to loosen the edges of the cake from the pan.

Place a cutting board on top of the cake, holding tightly both the pan and the board, and quickly flip the cake. Lift the pan and remove the parchment paper. Let the dessert cool on a cooling rack.

Serving and variations

The blueberry cake is delicious served plain, but you can enhance it with a spoonful of fresh cream or vanilla ice cream. A wonderful idea is to serve the cake with a caramel sauce or blueberry syrup for an extra flavor boost.

Nutritional benefits

This cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and fiber, making them excellent for heart health and the digestive system. Olive oil brings healthy fatty acids, while the eggs contribute quality protein.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I replace blueberries with other fruits?
Yes, you can use raspberries, blackberries, or even peach pieces. Each variation will offer a different and interesting taste.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar to 200 g or use a natural substitute like honey, adjusting the liquid amounts as well.

3. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, the cake can be frozen. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. You can take it out a few hours before serving.

Give your cake a personal touch by adding chopped nuts or a dash of cinnamon to the batter. This quick and simple dessert will surely become a family and friends favorite. Enjoy the preparation and savor every slice!