Lemon-Blueberry Poke Cake

Lemon-Blueberry Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the zesty flavor of lemons with the sweet burst of blueberries. This cake is not only refreshing but also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for gatherings or a simple weeknight treat, it brings a wonderful balance of flavors that everyone will love.

Why Make This Recipe

This Lemon-Blueberry Poke Cake is a fantastic choice for many reasons. First, it is deliciously moist and full of flavor. The poke cake method allows the blueberry sauce to seep into the cake, creating a juicy texture. Next, the creamy frosting made with cream cheese adds a rich layer that pairs perfectly with the fruity filling. It is a crowd-pleaser that will impress your family and friends without taking too much time in the kitchen!

How to Make Lemon-Blueberry Poke Cake

Ingredients:

Cooking spray (for pan)
1 box vanilla cake mix (plus ingredients called for on box)
2 1/2 cups blueberries
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1 tbsp granulated sugar
1/2 cup whipped topping
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
2 (8-oz.) blocks cream cheese, softened
2 1/4 cups powdered sugar
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Blueberries, for garnish

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9”-x-13” pan with parchment paper and grease it with cooking spray. Bake the vanilla cake mix according to the package instructions. Let the cake cool completely.
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the blueberries, lemon juice, and sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened and jammy, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat and transfer to a medium bowl. Let it cool for 15 minutes, then fold in the whipped topping.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese with a hand mixer until creamy. Add the powdered sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Continue to beat until smooth and fluffy.
Using the back of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cooled cake. Pour the blueberry mixture over the top, spreading it evenly. Spread the cream cheese frosting on top of the cake. Garnish with additional blueberries. Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Lemon-Blueberry Poke Cake!

How to Serve Lemon-Blueberry Poke Cake

Serve the Lemon-Blueberry Poke Cake chilled or at room temperature. It pairs nicely with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a great dessert for any occasion. Slice it into squares and offer it on a nice dessert platter. Don’t forget to add extra blueberries on top for that beautiful finishing touch!

How to Store Lemon-Blueberry Poke Cake

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help keep the cake fresh and the frosting creamy. Enjoy the cake within 3 to 4 days for the best taste.

Tips to Make Lemon-Blueberry Poke Cake

Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing.
To prevent the blueberries from sinking to the bottom, toss them in a little bit of flour before adding them to the cake batter.
For a little extra zing, you can add more lemon zest to the frosting.

Variation

You can easily change up this recipe by using different fruits. Try strawberries or raspberries instead of blueberries for a different flavor. You can also use lemon-lime soda instead of water for the vanilla cake mix to add more citrus flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh or frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use either fresh or frozen blueberries. If using frozen, there is no need to thaw them first.

2. How long can I keep the cake?
The Lemon-Blueberry Poke Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.

3. Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cake a day before your event and add the blueberry sauce and frosting on the day you plan to serve it.

4. What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you prefer a lighter frosting, you can substitute whipped cream or a store-bought whipped topping instead of cream cheese.

5. Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
You can easily make a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free vanilla cake mix. Just be sure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.