The Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake is a delightful fusion of tender crust, luscious sour cream filling, and juicy blueberries. This dessert captures the essence of Nova Scotia’s rich culinary heritage, where fresh berries are celebrated in many traditional dishes. Ideal for both novice and seasoned bakers, this recipe offers a straightforward approach to creating a show-stopping dessert. The combination of textures from the buttery crust to the creamy filling and burst of berries makes each bite a harmonious blend of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
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1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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½ cup white sugar
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1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
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½ cup cold butter, cut into small cubes
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1 large egg
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
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4 cups fresh blueberries (or thawed and drained frozen blueberries)
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2 teaspoons cornstarch
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2 cups sour cream
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½ cup white sugar
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2 large egg yolks
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Serving:
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Sweetened whipped cream (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch round springform pan.
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In a medium bowl, combine flour, ½ cup sugar, and baking powder. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg and vanilla extract until just combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
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In another bowl, gently toss the blueberries with cornstarch until evenly coated. Spread the blueberries over the crust.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, ½ cup sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour this mixture over the blueberries, spreading it evenly.
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Place the springform pan on a foil-lined baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the center is set.
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Remove from the oven and let cool completely. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
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Before serving, run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the cake, then remove the sides of the springform pan. Serve slices with a dollop of sweetened whipped cream, if desired.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 379 kcal per serving Servings: 10
Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake: A Delicious and Classic Dessert
Blueberry desserts hold a special place in the heart of many, and Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake is no exception. This delightful treat combines the sweetness of fresh blueberries, the creaminess of a sour cream filling, and a buttery crust to create a dessert that is both comforting and indulgent. Originating from the scenic province of Nova Scotia, known for its rich culinary traditions and abundant blueberry harvests, this cake is a celebration of local flavors and home-style baking.
In this article, we’ll explore the history of this beloved dessert, its unique ingredients, tips for baking the perfect cake, and variations you can try. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a beginner, this cake is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
The History and Significance of Blueberries in Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia is famous for its wild blueberries, which thrive in the province’s acidic, well-drained soils. These small, sweet, and intensely flavorful berries are harvested each summer and have become a key ingredient in many regional recipes. Blueberries are not only a delicious fruit but also a symbol of Nova Scotia’s agricultural heritage.
The tradition of incorporating blueberries into desserts dates back generations, with families using fresh-picked berries to create pies, tarts, and cakes. The Blueberry Cream Cake is one of those timeless recipes that reflect the simplicity and warmth of Nova Scotia’s culinary culture. The combination of local blueberries and a rich cream layer is both comforting and elegant, making it a favorite for family gatherings and celebrations.
What Makes Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake Unique?
What sets this dessert apart is the harmonious balance of flavors and textures. The buttery, crumbly crust provides a firm base, while the creamy, tangy filling adds a luscious contrast to the sweet and juicy blueberries. Unlike a traditional blueberry pie, the cream layer in this cake adds richness and a smooth, velvety texture that elevates the dessert to a whole new level.
Another unique feature of this cake is its versatility. It can be served warm or chilled, making it suitable for different occasions and seasons. When served warm, the blueberries become soft and jam-like, creating a comforting dessert perfect for colder months. When chilled, the cream filling firms up, offering a refreshing and light treat ideal for summer gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake is loved for several reasons:
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Simple Ingredients: The recipe uses pantry staples and fresh blueberries, making it accessible and easy to prepare.
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Delightful Texture: The contrast between the crisp crust, smooth cream filling, and juicy berries provides a satisfying bite.
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Versatility: It can be served as a casual dessert for family meals or dressed up for special occasions.
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Make-Ahead Friendly: This cake can be baked ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to develop even further.
Tips for Perfecting Your Blueberry Cream Cake
To ensure your Blueberry Cream Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these expert tips:
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Use Fresh, In-Season Blueberries: While frozen blueberries can be used in a pinch, fresh, ripe blueberries provide the best flavor and texture. If using frozen berries, make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
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Chill Before Serving: Allowing the cake to cool completely and chill in the refrigerator enhances the flavors and gives the cream filling time to set properly.
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Don’t Overmix the Batter: When preparing the crust, mix just until the ingredients are combined to maintain a tender texture. Overworking the dough can lead to a tough crust.
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Bake on a Baking Sheet: Place your springform pan on a foil-lined baking sheet to catch any potential drips during baking and keep your oven clean.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth filling and even baking.
Creative Variations of Blueberry Cream Cake
While the classic recipe is delicious on its own, there are many ways to customize your Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake:
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Lemon Blueberry Cream Cake: Add the zest of one lemon to the cream filling and a tablespoon of lemon juice for a bright, citrusy twist.
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Mixed Berry Version: Combine blueberries with other seasonal berries like raspberries and blackberries for a more complex fruit flavor.
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Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a celiac-friendly dessert without sacrificing taste or texture.
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Almond Crust: Substitute a portion of the flour with finely ground almonds or almond flour for a nutty, aromatic crust.
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Vegan Option: Replace the butter with plant-based alternatives and use a dairy-free cream substitute for a vegan-friendly version.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is versatile enough to be served in a variety of ways:
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With Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds an airy contrast to the dense filling.
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Ice Cream Pairing: Serve a slice with a scoop of vanilla or lemon ice cream for an indulgent treat.
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Fresh Berry Garnish: Decorate the top with additional fresh blueberries or other berries for a beautiful presentation.
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Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance to each slice.
Health Benefits of Blueberries
Beyond their delicious flavor, blueberries are packed with nutritional benefits. These antioxidant-rich berries are known for:
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Boosting Immunity: Blueberries contain high levels of vitamins C and K, which support a healthy immune system.
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Promoting Heart Health: The antioxidants in blueberries help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
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Aiding Digestion: With their high fiber content, blueberries support healthy digestion and gut health.
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Improving Brain Function: Studies suggest that blueberries may improve memory and cognitive function due to their high levels of flavonoids.
By incorporating blueberries into this cake, you’re not only indulging in a delicious dessert but also enjoying a range of health benefits.
Storing and Freezing Blueberry Cream Cake
This cake can be stored and enjoyed over several days with proper handling:
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Refrigeration: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The cream filling will remain firm and flavorful.
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Freezing: For longer storage, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Conclusion:
The Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the best of creamy, fruity, and buttery textures. With its simple preparation and elegant presentation, it’s a perfect recipe for both casual family dinners and festive celebrations. Whether you follow the traditional method or experiment with creative variations, this cake is sure to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.
By incorporating local, fresh blueberries and a rich cream filling, this cake celebrates the flavors of Nova Scotia while offering a versatile and irresistible dessert option. Next time you want to impress your loved ones or satisfy a sweet craving, give this iconic cake a try – it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!