Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake is just what you need! This cake is an absolute delight, bursting with the vibrant flavors of wild blueberries. It’s a recipe that has been passed down through my family and has become our go-to for everything from busy weeknights to festive family gatherings. Simple yet elegant, this cake is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

What makes this dessert even more special is its ease of preparation. You don’t need to be a baking expert to whip this up! With just a few wholesome ingredients and straightforward steps, you can serve up a slice of happiness any time you want.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you’ll have this delicious cake ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the sweet burst of blueberries combined with creamy filling; it’s perfect for all ages!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time, making it ideal for gatherings or last-minute get-togethers.
• Versatile dish: Great for summer barbecues or cozy winter dinners—it fits any occasion!
• Stunning presentation: The layers look beautiful and inviting, making it an eye-catching centerpiece for your dessert table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake. Don’t worry; nothing fancy here—just good old kitchen staples that you might already have on hand!

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ cup butter
• 1 egg

For the Filling:

• 4 cups blueberries
• 2 cups sour cream
• ½ cup white sugar
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Variations

One of the joys of baking is how flexible recipes can be! Feel free to experiment with these fun variations that can put your own spin on the classic Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake.

• Use mixed berries: Swap out some or all of the blueberries for strawberries or raspberries for a berry medley.
• Add spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg into the crust for an extra layer of flavor.
• Try different dairy options: If you want a lighter touch, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream!
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your cake will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Making the Crust

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and baking powder. This combination creates a nice base for your cake. Cut the butter into small cubes and blend it into the flour mixture using a fork until it resembles coarse crumbs. This will give your crust that lovely, cookie-like texture. Finally, mix in the egg until everything comes together in a dough. Press this mixture evenly into a greased springform pan.

Step 3: Preparing the Filling

Now it’s time to spread those beautiful blueberries over the crust. Whether fresh or frozen, they’ll add natural sweetness and moisture. In another bowl, mix together sour cream, white sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour this creamy mixture over the blueberries; it will bake into velvety perfection as it cooks!

Step 4: Baking

Slide your cake into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 60 minutes or until the edges turn lightly browned. This step is crucial as it allows all those delicious flavors to meld beautifully together. Once baked, let it cool before carefully removing from the pan—this helps maintain its shape!

Enjoy every slice of your homemade Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake! It’s bound to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen just like it is in mine.

Pro Tips for Making Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake

Making Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll nail it every time!

• Use fresh or frozen blueberries: Both options are great! Fresh blueberries will give you that juicy burst of flavor, while frozen blueberries can be a convenient alternative. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid if using frozen.

• Don’t skip the cooling step: Allowing your cake to cool completely in the pan is essential. It helps set the custard layer and makes it easier to slice without falling apart.

• Grease your springform pan well: This ensures easy removal of the cake and prevents sticking. A little extra butter or cooking spray goes a long way!

• Customize sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar levels in both crust and filling according to your taste preferences. If you love tart flavors, reduce the sugar slightly – it pairs beautifully with the blueberries.

• Experiment with spices: Adding a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to your crust can enhance the overall flavor profile, giving your cake a warm, cozy feel.

How to Serve Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake

This gorgeous cake not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning on any dessert table! Here are some creative ways to present this delicious treat.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light and airy texture that complements the rich custard beautifully.
• Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint not only add a pop of color but also provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet blueberries.
• Lemon zest: Sprinkling some lemon zest on top gives a citrusy brightness that elevates the flavors of this cake.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream is an indulgent pairing that balances out the tartness of the blueberries.
• Greek yogurt: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt adds tanginess and creaminess, making it a healthy option that enhances the cake’s flavors.
• Fruit salad: A colorful fruit salad can serve as a refreshing complement, providing additional textures and flavors alongside your blueberry cake.
• Herbal tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, makes for a soothing beverage choice that pairs wonderfully with dessert.

Enjoy every slice of your Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake! It’s perfect for gatherings or simply as a sweet treat for yourself.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake is not only a delightful treat to share with family and friends, but it also shines as a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Preparing it in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring every bite is bursting with deliciousness.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, slice the cake into portions after it has cooled.
• Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Frozen portions can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• For a warm treat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place slices on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

If you have some questions about this delightful dessert, you’re not alone! Here are answers to some common inquiries.

Can I use frozen blueberries for Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake?

Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure they’re thawed and drained before using them to prevent excess moisture.

How do I know when my Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake is done baking?

Your cake is ready when the edges are lightly browned and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

What can I substitute for sour cream in this recipe?

You can use plain Greek yogurt as a great alternative, which will provide similar creaminess and tang without compromising flavor.

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour. Just ensure your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake is truly special—combining simple ingredients into a luscious dessert that’s sure to leave everyone wanting seconds! I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. It’s perfect for any gathering or simply as a sweet treat for yourself. Happy baking!