Are you craving a moist, delicious blueberry cake but short on time? This recipe is your answer! We're taking a shortcut to baking bliss by using a cake mix as our base, elevating it with fresh blueberries and a touch of magic. This easy recipe is perfect for beginner bakers, weeknight desserts, or when you simply want a homemade treat without the fuss. Get ready for a burst of blueberry goodness in every bite! This recipe makes a wonderfully moist and delicious cake, perfect for any occasion. It's one of the best recipes for a quick and easy dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) white or yellow cake mix
- 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen blueberries (if frozen, do not thaw)
- Ingredients listed on cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, water)
- ½ cup milk (any kind)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This ensures your cake will release easily from the pan.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk and vanilla extract. This simple step enhances the flavor of your cake.
Mix the Batter: Add the cake mix to the bowl with the wet ingredients. Gently fold everything together until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, so be gentle!
Add the Blueberries: Gently fold in the blueberries. Don't be afraid to get some blueberries on the bottom of the pan. It provides a nice visual and taste appeal.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.
Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before dusting with powdered sugar (optional) and slicing. Serve and enjoy your homemade blueberry cake!
Tips for the Best Blueberry Cake:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
- Fresh blueberries are best: While frozen blueberries work in a pinch, fresh blueberries offer superior flavor and texture.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of sugar called for on the cake mix box by 1-2 tablespoons.
- Add a lemon zest: For an extra layer of flavor, add the zest of one lemon to the batter along with the blueberries.
Variations:
- Lemon Blueberry Cake: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the batter.
- Streusel Topping: Sprinkle a streusel topping (made with flour, butter, sugar, and oats) over the cake before baking.
- Glaze it: Make a simple glaze with powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice to drizzle over the cooled cake.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the cake mix brand and the size of your slices. Nutritional information is best calculated using a nutrition calculator with the specific ingredients used.
This recipe provides a delicious and easy way to enjoy a homemade blueberry cake. It's a perfect option for busy weeknights or special occasions. The ease of using a cake mix allows you to focus on the delicious additions that elevate this simple recipe into something truly special. Enjoy!