Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Easy, quick, delicious – and perfect for everything from summer BBQs to tasty snacks! The Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the sweet burst of fresh blueberries. This cake not only pleases the palate but also makes an attractive centerpiece for any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon, this cake brings joy to every occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, this cake is easy to whip up even for beginner bakers.
• Zesty Flavor: The combination of lemon and blueberries creates a refreshing taste that’s perfect for any season.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a dessert or snack; it fits perfectly in lunchboxes or at picnics.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors make it visually appealing, making your gathering more festive.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 16 servings, it’s ideal for potlucks, parties, or family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to prepare your Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools make creaming butter and sugar easy, ensuring a light and fluffy batter.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to measure and mix ingredients separately without confusion.
• Spatula: A spatula is perfect for gently folding in blueberries, preserving their shape and flavor in the batter.

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, then line it with parchment paper so there’s an overhang on the two long sides of the pan. This will make removing the cake much easier!

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a hand mixer), cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk, mixing on low until fully incorporated. Gradually add in the dry ingredients until no streaks of flour remain. Mix in the lemon juice and zest. Gently stir in the blueberries using a spatula.

Step 3: Bake

Pour the cake batter into your prepared baking dish. Bake for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs. Allow it to cool completely in the pan or lift it out using parchment before drizzling.

Step 4: Glaze

For the glaze, combine powdered sugar and lemon juice. Pour it over the cooled cake. Let it set before garnishing with fresh fruit if desired, then serve!

How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or enjoying a cozy family gathering, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your cake experience.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of each slice for a creamy contrast to the tartness of the lemon and sweetness of the blueberries.

Garnished with Fresh Berries

• Top your cake with an assortment of fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries alongside blueberries for a colorful and fruity presentation.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream melts slightly into the warm cake, creating a deliciously sweet combination.

Lemon Zest Sprinkles

• Enhance the lemon flavor by sprinkling extra lemon zest over the top before serving. This adds a vibrant color and an aromatic touch.

Drizzled with Extra Glaze

• For those who love sweetness, drizzle additional glaze over each slice just before serving. It creates a beautiful, shiny finish that’s irresistible.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange small squares on a dessert platter with other treats like cookies or brownies for an appealing dessert spread at parties.

How to Perfect Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Achieving the perfect Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake involves some simple tips to elevate your baking game. Follow these suggestions for optimal results.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensure butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for better blending and texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter – Mix until just combined to avoid dense cake; overmixing can lead to tough texture.
• Check for doneness – Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean or with moist crumbs for perfect baking.
• Cool completely before glazing – Allowing the cake to cool ensures that the glaze sets nicely without sliding off.
• Store properly – Keep leftovers covered at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 3 days for freshness.
• Experiment with flavors – Try adding almond extract or different citrus zests for unique twists on the classic flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake can create a satisfying meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the cake’s flavors while adding brightness to your table.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side that balances sweetness.
3. Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which contrast well with sweet desserts.
4. Herbed Salad – A light salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and acidity that pairs beautifully.
5. Iced Tea – Serve chilled herbal iced tea infused with mint or fruit flavors as a refreshing beverage option.
6. Scones or Biscuits – These baked goods offer another layer of texture while maintaining similar flavor notes, especially when served warm.
7. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries – A decadent treat that adds richness, balancing out the tartness of the cake beautifully.
8. Pineapple Salsa – Bright and zesty salsa made from fresh pineapple adds an unexpected twist that enhances your dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky! Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake.

• Boldly skip the measurements – Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to a cake that is too dry or too dense. Always use precise measurements for the best results.
• Boldly overlook ingredient temperature – Using cold butter or eggs can affect the batter’s texture. Ensure your butter is softened and eggs are at room temperature before starting.
• Boldly ignore mixing times – Overmixing the batter can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Boldly forget to prepare the pan – Skipping the step of greasing and lining your baking dish can result in a cake that sticks. Always prepare your pan properly for easy removal.
• Boldly skimp on cooling time – Cutting into the cake too soon may lead to a messy slice. Allow the cake to cool completely before serving for clean, beautiful pieces.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store covered in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep in its original baking dish if you prefer, just cover with plastic wrap.

Freezing Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, place slices on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop – Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen blueberries in this Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries! Just toss them with flour as you would fresh ones and add them directly into the batter.

What can I substitute for buttermilk in this recipe?

You can make a quick buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

How do I store leftover Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I customize this recipe with other fruits?

Absolutely! You can substitute blueberries with raspberries or chopped strawberries for a different flavor profile while keeping the same base recipe.

Why is my cake dense?

A dense cake may result from overmixing or using cold ingredients. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature and mix only until combined.

How should I serve Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake?

This cake is fantastic served as-is or garnished with fresh fruit and whipped cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is not just delicious; it’s also versatile enough to fit any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or looking for a midday snack, this recipe will surely impress. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite fruits or adjusting the glaze sweetness. Enjoy baking!