Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Easy, quick, and delicious, Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is the perfect treat for summer BBQs, picnics, and casual get-togethers. With its bright, tangy flavor from fresh lemons and juicy blueberries, this cake stands out as a delightful dessert option that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it at a birthday party or enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea, this recipe is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This cake comes together quickly with minimal effort, making it ideal for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lemon zest and fresh blueberries creates a refreshing taste that brightens up any occasion.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a sweet snack or dress it up for dessert at gatherings; this cake fits right in.
• Perfect Texture: Moist and fluffy, the cake provides a delightful bite that pairs wonderfully with the tangy glaze.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 16 servings, it’s great for sharing with family and friends at any event.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin baking your Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process much smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer (or hand mixer)
• 9×13 baking dish
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Ensures your butter and sugar are creamed to perfection for a light and airy cake.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes it easy to lift the cake out once baked.
• Spatula: Great for gently folding in ingredients like blueberries without crushing them.

Ingredients

Easy, quick, delicious – and perfect for everything from summer BBQs to tasty snacks!

Ingredients:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup butter (2 sticks), softened
– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– Juice and zest of 2 lemons (about 1/4 cup lemon juice)
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries, tossed with 1 Tbs flour
– 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/3 cup lemon juice

How to Make Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish and line it with parchment paper so there’s an overhang on the two long sides. This will make removing the cake much easier!

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour through salt. Set aside. In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a hand mixer), cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

• Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition.
• Pour in the buttermilk and vanilla extract; mix on low until incorporated.
• Gradually add in the dry ingredients until no streaks of flour remain.
• Mix in the lemon juice and zest until fully combined.
• Gently stir in the blueberries with a spatula.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Bake for about 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Allow cooling completely before glazing.

Step 4: Glaze and Serve

For the glaze, combine powdered sugar and lemon juice in a bowl. Pour over your cooled cake once it has set slightly. Let it harden before garnishing with fresh fruit if desired. Slice into squares to serve!

How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you’re serving it at a summer gathering or enjoying it as a sweet afternoon treat, these suggestions will elevate your serving experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Adding fresh fruit on top enhances the cake’s flavor and adds a pop of color. Consider using strawberries, raspberries, or more blueberries.

With Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream on each slice creates a creamy contrast to the zesty cake. It’s simple yet delicious!

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Slice the cake into smaller pieces and pair it with other desserts. This makes for an attractive dessert platter that guests will love.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices of Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. The creaminess complements the cake perfectly.

With a Glass of Lemonade

• Pairing this cake with a refreshing glass of lemonade enhances its lemony goodness. It’s a perfect match for hot summer days.

As Breakfast or Snack

• Enjoy leftover slices as a quick breakfast or snack option. The combination of lemon and blueberries offers a refreshing start to your day.

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How to Perfect Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Perfecting your Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is easy with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until no flour streaks remain. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

• Fresh Blueberries: Use fresh blueberries tossed in flour to prevent them from sinking in the batter. This keeps them evenly distributed throughout the cake.

• Check Doneness Early: To avoid overbaking, check your cake around 40 minutes. If a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs, it’s ready!

• Let it Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the glaze. This ensures that the glaze sets nicely without running off.

• Store Properly: Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake can enhance the overall experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cake and adds brightness to your dessert table.

2. Minted Yogurt: A light yogurt drizzled with honey and topped with fresh mint complements the citrus flavors beautifully.

3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese that provide a creamy contrast to the tangy lemon cake.

4. Pistachio Crumble: A crunchy pistachio crumble sprinkled on top adds texture and flavor, making every bite exciting.

5. Iced Tea: Serve alongside chilled iced tea for a refreshing beverage option that pairs well with dessert on warm days.

6. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These add an elegant touch and their rich chocolate flavor contrasts delightfully with the zesty lemon taste of the cake.

7. Lemon Sorbet: For those who love citrus, lemon sorbet serves as a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of sweet cake.

8. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats offer an interesting texture while complementing the tropical notes in your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can prevent the batter from mixing well. Always use room temperature ingredients for the best results.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until you no longer see streaks of flour.
• Not measuring flour properly: Too much or too little flour can affect the cake’s texture. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining the pan can make it hard to remove the cake. Parchment paper ensures easy lifting and cleanup.
• Ignoring oven calibration: Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your baking temperature is accurate for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep covered to maintain moisture and freshness.

Freezing Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat slices on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 30 seconds, checking until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake, here are some common questions that may help.

Can I use frozen blueberries in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries! Just toss them in flour before adding them to prevent them from sinking.

How do I make this cake more lemony?

You can increase the amount of lemon juice and zest used in both the batter and glaze for a stronger lemon flavor.

How should I store leftover Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I substitute buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with vinegar (1 tablespoon per cup) if you’re out of buttermilk.

What occasions are best for serving this cake?

Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is perfect for summer BBQs, picnics, birthdays, or any gathering where you want a light, refreshing dessert!

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. Its bright flavors make it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy family gathering. Feel free to customize by adding other fruits or adjusting the sweetness to suit your taste!