Spring Cake With Lemon And Berries

Name: Spring Cake With Lemon And Berries
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon milk

Highlighted under: Golden Oven Sweets

I am excited to share my Spring Cake with Lemon and Berries recipe! This light and fluffy cake bursts with the vibrant flavors of fresh lemons and juicy berries, capturing the essence of springtime in every bite. Perfect for brunches or afternoon tea, this cake has become a favorite in our household. The balance of sweet and tart makes it an ideal dessert for any occasion, and it's surprisingly easy to make. I love serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a simple glaze for an extra touch of indulgence!

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2026-02-28T06:33:35.501Z

When I first made this Spring Cake, I experimented with combining the tartness of lemons and the sweetness of mixed berries. The results were better than I had anticipated! Each slice brought me back to warm, sunny days, which I wanted to capture in a single cake. I found that letting it cool completely before glazing allowed the flavors to develop beautifully.

What really makes this cake special is the light texture, which I achieved by carefully folding the batter and using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Trust me, using freshly squeezed lemon juice and zested skin enhances the flavor significantly, elevating this cake from good to unforgettable!

        Why You'll Love This Cake
        Light, fluffy texture enhanced by citrus brightness
Bursting with fresh berry flavors perfect for spring
Easy to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh lemons and seasonal berries is crucial for maximizing the flavor of your Spring Cake. Lemons should be bright and fragrant; the zest and juice add a vibrant tartness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cake. If you're short on fresh lemons, you can use bottled juice, but the flavor won't be as bright. As for the berries, opt for ripe, in-season choices—strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provide a delightful natural sweetness that enhances the overall profile.

When selecting berries, aim for ones that are firm and plump. Avoid any that appear mushy or have dark spots, as these may spoil faster or affect the cake's moisture content negatively. You can also experiment with your favorite berries, but be cautious about using very juicy fruits like blackberries, as they could make the batter too wet. If you do, consider reducing the milk slightly.

Baking Techniques for Perfect Texture

Achieving a light and fluffy texture in this cake relies heavily on the creaming method when mixing the butter and sugar. Ensure your butter is at room temperature before starting; this helps incorporate air into the batter. Beat the butter and sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. This step is essential for creating the cake's light texture.

When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Over-mixing can lead to a dense cake due to gluten development. If you notice any lumps in the batter, that's okay; they will usually bake out. Gently folding in the berries at the end ensures they distribute evenly and don’t break down too much, maintaining their integrity within the cake.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your delicious Spring Cake:

Cake Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon milk

Make sure to use seasonal, fresh berries for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Spring Cake:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and sugar.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat together butter, eggs, milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the berries.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Glaze

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Mix the glaze ingredients and drizzle over the cake once cooled.

Enjoy your delightful cake with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider mixing in some lemon curd along with the batter before baking.

Storage Tips

This Spring Cake can be stored at room temperature, covered with plastic wrap, for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it will last up to a week. However, refrigeration can dry out the cake, so you may want to bring it back to room temperature before serving to revive its fluffiness.

If you decide to freeze the cake, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. This method will keep the cake moist. It can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and allow to come to room temperature before serving.

Serving Suggestions

For an elevated presentation, serve your Spring Cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side. You can flavor the whipped cream with a touch of vanilla or even a hint of lemon zest for an extra zing that pairs well with the cake. Garnishing each slice with a few fresh berries on top not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of color and flavor with each bite.

Another delightful option is to drizzle the cake with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice. I find this adds an extra layer of sweetness and a beautiful sheen, making the cake even more inviting. Feel free to let your creativity shine; you could even layer the cake with more berries and whipped cream, transforming it into a charming berry shortcake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture in the cake.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Certainly! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend.

→ Is it possible to add toppings?

Absolutely! Fresh whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream pairs wonderfully with this cake.