Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake

Introduction

Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake: just the name evokes images of summer, sunshine, and the sweet bounty of the Maritime province. This isn’t just any cake; it’s a celebration of Nova Scotia’s iconic wild blueberries, perfectly balanced with a rich, creamy texture. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice looking for a show-stopping dessert, this recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to discover the secrets to creating a truly unforgettable Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake!

A Cake Steeped in Tradition

The Wild Blueberry Legacy

Nova Scotia is renowned for its wild blueberries. Smaller and more intense in flavor than cultivated blueberries, these tiny powerhouses are packed with antioxidants and boast a uniquely tart sweetness. This cake showcases their natural brilliance.

Cream Cheese Magic

The addition of cream cheese to the cake batter creates a wonderfully moist and tender crumb. It adds a subtle tanginess that complements the sweetness of the blueberries beautifully. This ingredient is key to the cake’s luxurious texture.

Making the Perfect Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake

Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup fresh or frozen (unthawed) Nova Scotia wild blueberries
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
7. Gently fold in the blueberries.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Blueberry Bliss

• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
• Use wild blueberries: While cultivated blueberries will work, Nova Scotia wild blueberries deliver the most authentic flavor.
• Toss blueberries in flour: Before adding the blueberries to the batter, toss them with a tablespoon of flour. This will help prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake.
• Adjust baking time: Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Check the cake regularly with a wooden skewer.

Conclusion

The Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a taste of Maritime tradition. Its unique blend of sweet and tart flavors, coupled with its incredibly moist texture, makes it a crowd-pleaser every time. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to bake a cake that will transport you straight to the beautiful shores of Nova Scotia. Enjoy!