Introduction
If you’re looking for a dessert that evokes the warmth of summer, look no further than the Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake. This delightful cake combines the sweet, juicy blueberries from Nova Scotia with a rich and creamy frosting. Trust me when I say, each slice is a heavenly experience that will brighten your day!
Moreover, this cake is not just delicious; it’s also easy to make. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, you’ll find this recipe simple yet rewarding. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of blueberry bliss!
Ingredients
To whip up your own Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake, you’ll need some key ingredients that are likely already in your pantry or easily found at your local grocery store. Here’s what you will need:
- 2 cups fresh Nova Scotia blueberries
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Feel free to substitute frozen blueberries if fresh ones are not available. However, fresh blueberries do add a special touch to this cake!
Timing
Timing is everything in baking! Here’s a breakdown of how long each step will take:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 30-35 minutes
- Cooling time: 20 minutes
- Decoration time: 15 minutes
In total, you can expect this delightful cake to take about 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish. That’s not too long for a slice of summer bliss, right?
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get to the fun part—baking the Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is essential for ensuring your cake rises perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Next, grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. This helps prevent sticking and makes for an easy release.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes, so be patient!
Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Now, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Alternate with adding the heavy cream, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Step 7: Fold in Blueberries
Gently fold in the fresh blueberries. Be careful not to over-mix; we want those berries to stay intact!
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Place it in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Decorate
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 20 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
For decoration, whip the remaining heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Spread it generously over the cooled cake and top with extra blueberries. Voila!
Nutritional Information
Before you indulge, here’s a quick look at the nutritional information for one slice (based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
This cake is a treat, so enjoy it in moderation. Your taste buds will thank you!
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to lighten up this dessert a bit, here are some healthier alternatives:
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Substitute unsweetened applesauce for half the butter.
- Try using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
- Opt for low-fat cream instead of heavy cream.
These swaps can help you enjoy the cake without the guilt. But remember, a little indulgence is okay!
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a refreshing iced tea. You can also add a sprinkle of lemon zest on top for a zesty kick!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even seasoned bakers can make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Don’t skip the preheating step; it’s critical for proper baking.
- Avoid over-mixing the batter, which can lead to a tough cake.
- Make sure your blueberries are rinsed and patted dry to prevent excess moisture.
- Always let the cake cool completely before frosting; otherwise, the cream will melt!
Storage Tips
Want to keep your cake fresh? Here’s how:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Consume within 3-4 days for the best quality.
- You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Conclusion
To sum it up, the Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that brings the essence of summer into your kitchen. With its sweet blueberries and creamy frosting, it’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. So why not treat yourself and your loved ones to this heavenly slice of joy?
PrintHeavenly Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake: A Slice of Summer Bliss
Delight in a moist and fluffy Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake, perfect for any occasion.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh Nova Scotia blueberries
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
- Cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well, then add vanilla.
- Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients, alternating with heavy cream.
- Fold in blueberries gently.
- Pour batter into the pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Cool in the pan for 20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Whip remaining cream and decorate the cake with it and extra blueberries.
Notes
- Fresh blueberries enhance the flavor but frozen can be used.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Canadian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter to avoid excess moisture.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for proper structure.
Is there a vegan version of this cake?
Yes! You can replace the eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and cream. It will still be delicious!
Final Thoughts
The Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of summer flavors. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this cake will surely impress. So, roll up your sleeves and start baking. Your taste buds will thank you, and your friends will be begging for the recipe!