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### **Step 1: Preparing the Cake Layers**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. Alternatively, you can use a springform pan if you prefer to remove the cake layers more easily.
2. **Mix the Dry Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set the dry ingredients aside.
3. **Cream the Butter and Eggs:** In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until it’s light and fluffy. This will take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and egg mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
5. **Bake the Cake Layers:** Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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### **Step 2: Preparing the Cream Filling**
1. **Whip the Cream:** In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar together until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, as the cream can become too stiff and start to curdle.
2. **Mix in the Cream Cheese:** In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and lemon juice (if using), and mix well. Then, fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until combined, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream too much. The mixture should be light, airy, and smooth.
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### **Step 3: Assembling the Cake**
1. **Layer the Cake:** Once the cake layers have cooled, place one layer on a serving platter or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of the cream filling over the first cake layer, smoothing it out with a spatula.
2. **Add Blueberries:** Scatter a handful of fresh blueberries over the cream filling, pressing them gently into the cream.
3. **Top with the Second Layer:** Place the second cake layer on top of the blueberries. Press down gently to secure it.
4. **Finish with Cream and Blueberries:** Spread the remaining cream filling over the top of the second cake layer. Top the cake with the remaining blueberries, and garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
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## **Serving and Enjoying the Cake**
Once your **Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake** is assembled, it’s time to serve and enjoy. This cake is best served chilled, allowing the cream to set and the flavors to meld. The fresh blueberries provide a burst of natural sweetness with every bite, while the creamy filling and light cake layers create a satisfying contrast of textures.
This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a wonderful dessert for afternoon gatherings, special occasions, or any time you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something extraordinary.
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## **Tips and Variations**
1. **Make-Ahead Options:** You can prepare the cake layers and cream filling a day in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. Assemble the cake on the day you plan to serve it.
2. **Flavor Variations:** For a twist on the classic flavor, try adding a small amount of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter. You can also experiment with adding lemon zest to the cream filling for a refreshing citrusy flavor.
3. **Use Other Berries:** If fresh blueberries are unavailable, you can substitute them with other
berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries. Each type of berry will bring its own unique flavor to the cake.
4. **Gluten-Free Option:** To make a gluten-free version of the cake, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
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## **Conclusion**
The **Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake** is a delightful dessert that celebrates the best of Canadian ingredients, particularly the sweet, juicy blueberries from Nova Scotia. With its light cake layers, rich cream filling, and fresh blueberry topping, this cake is sure to impress at any gathering or celebration. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to enjoy a taste of Nova Scotia at home, this dessert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
By following the detailed steps in this guide, you’ll be able to recreate this delicious treat in your own kitchen, bringing a piece of Canadian heritage to your table. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a slice of heaven with every bite of this Ultimate Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake.
