DESSERTS

Easy Vegan Lemon Blueberry Cake

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This delightful vegan lemon blueberry cake is soft, moist, and perfectly balanced with the tartness of lemons and the sweetness of blueberries. It’s an easy, one-bowl recipe that requires only seven ingredients, making it a quick and delicious dessert option. 

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

Vegan Lemon Blueberry Cake

  • 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose plain flour
  • 1 ¼ cups (250g) granulated sugar
  • 3 teaspoons baking powder
  • Pinch of salt (optional)
  • ¾ cup (190g) dairy-free milk
  • ½ cup (125g) neutral-flavored oil
  • ⅓ cup (80g) lemon juice, plus zest from approximately 2 large lemons
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 1 ¼ cups (190g) blueberries, fresh or frozen

To Serve (Optional)

  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (355°F). Line or grease a 20 cm (8-inch) round cake pan.
  2. Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to eliminate any lumps. Add the dairy-free milk, oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract (if using) to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing.
  3. Incorporate Blueberries: Gently fold in half of the blueberries into the batter. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Scatter the remaining blueberries on top, pressing some slightly into the batter.
  4. Bake the Cake: Bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are acceptable).
  5. Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  6. Serve: Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired, slice, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 338 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 54g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 153mg
  • Potassium: 68mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Vitamin A: 18 IU
  • Vitamin C: 7 mg
  • Calcium: 102 mg
  • Iron: 2 mg

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Lemon Blueberry Cake

This easy vegan lemon blueberry cake is a light, moist, and flavorful dessert that brings together the bright tanginess of fresh lemons and the natural sweetness of juicy blueberries. It’s the perfect treat for spring and summer but can be enjoyed all year round. This cake is entirely plant-based, made without eggs or dairy, yet it delivers a soft and fluffy texture with a deliciously zesty lemon flavor. The balance between the tartness of lemon and the sweetness of blueberries creates a refreshing and satisfying bite.

What Makes This Cake Moist and Fluffy?

Vegan baking relies on smart ingredient swaps to achieve the perfect texture. This cake gets its light and fluffy crumb from:

  • Plant-Based Milk + Vinegar – This combination creates a dairy-free buttermilk effect, adding tenderness and moisture to the cake.
  • Baking Powder and Baking Soda – These leavening agents help the cake rise, making it soft and airy.
  • Oil Instead of Butter – Using a neutral oil keeps the cake moist without making it too heavy.
  • Fresh Lemon Juice and Zest – The acidity enhances the flavor and keeps the cake tender.

Flavor Profile: A Perfect Blend of Citrus and Sweetness

The key to this cake’s irresistible taste is the combination of zesty lemon and sweet, juicy blueberries. The fresh lemon juice and zest add a bright, tangy flavor that balances beautifully with the natural sweetness of blueberries. When baked, the blueberries burst, releasing their juices and creating pockets of fruity goodness throughout the cake. If you prefer an extra citrusy kick, you can increase the lemon zest for a more pronounced flavor. The slight tartness from the lemon pairs well with a hint of vanilla, rounding out the cake’s overall taste.

Health Benefits of This Vegan Lemon Blueberry Cake

This cake not only tastes amazing but also comes with some added nutritional benefits:

  • Dairy-Free and Egg-Free – Ideal for those with dairy allergies, lactose intolerance, or following a plant-based diet.
  • Antioxidant-Rich Blueberries – Blueberries are packed with antioxidants that help fight inflammation and promote overall health.
  • Vitamin C from Lemons – Lemons provide immune-boosting vitamin C, which supports skin health and digestion.
  • Heart-Healthy Fats – The use of plant-based oils instead of butter provides beneficial unsaturated fats.

How to Store and Keep Your Cake Fresh

To ensure your vegan lemon blueberry cake stays fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

  • Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigeration: If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s covered well to prevent it from drying out.
  • Freezing: This cake freezes well! Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature.

Ways to Customize Your Vegan Lemon Blueberry Cake

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily tweak it to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

  • Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make the cake gluten-free while keeping it soft and fluffy.
  • Extra Lemon Flavor: Add more lemon zest or a bit of lemon extract for an even stronger citrus punch.
  • Different Berries: Swap out blueberries for raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries for a twist on the original recipe.
  • Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped almonds or walnuts for extra texture.
  • Frosting Ideas: While this cake is delicious on its own, you can top it with a lemon glaze, coconut whipped cream, or a light vegan cream cheese frosting for added indulgence.

Perfect Pairings for Your Vegan Lemon Blueberry Cake

This cake pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages and accompaniments:

  • Herbal Tea: Chamomile, lavender, or lemon ginger tea complement the citrusy flavors.
  • Iced Matcha Latte: The earthy notes of matcha contrast well with the sweetness of the cake.
  • Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream makes for an indulgent dessert.
  • Fresh Berries: Serve with extra fresh blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries for an elegant presentation.

Conclusion

This easy vegan lemon blueberry cake is a must-try for anyone who loves fresh, vibrant flavors. Its moist texture, zesty lemon kick, and bursts of juicy blueberries make it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of tea, serving it for a celebration, or just indulging in a homemade dessert, this cake proves that plant-based baking can be just as delicious—if not better—than traditional recipes. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again!

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