Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Easy, quick, delicious – and perfect for everything from summer BBQs to tasty snacks! This Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is a delightful treat that combines the zesty flavor of lemons with sweet blueberries. It’s not just a cake; it’s an experience that brings joy to any gathering or occasion. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or simply indulging yourself, this cake will brighten your day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: This cake comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The tangy lemon and sweet blueberries create a refreshing taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a dessert, snack, or breakfast treat; it fits all occasions!
• Beautiful Presentation: Its vibrant colors and glaze make this cake visually appealing for any table setting.
• Feed a Crowd: With 16 servings, it’s ideal for parties and family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake, you need some essential tools to ensure success in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• 9×13 baking dish
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: A stand mixer makes creaming the butter and sugar easy, ensuring fluffy batter without much effort.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple mixing bowls helps keep your ingredients organized during preparation.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment paper prevents sticking, making it easier to lift the cake out after baking.

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 tablespoon 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 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 through 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, and buttermilk. Mix on low until incorporated. Add the dry ingredients gradually until no streaks of flour remain. Mix in the lemon juice and zest. Gently stir in the blueberries with a spatula.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for about 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Allow cooling completely in the pan.

Step 4: Glaze and Serve

For the glaze: combine powdered sugar and lemon juice in a bowl, then pour over the cooled cake. Let it harden before garnishing with fresh fruit for serving!

How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is versatile and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether it’s for a summer gathering or a cozy family dessert, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

Individual Slices

• Serve each slice on a decorative plate for a charming presentation.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for extra indulgence.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Top each slice with fresh blueberries or slices of lemon to elevate the flavor and appearance.
• Consider adding mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

Drizzled Glaze

• Drizzle additional lemon glaze over the top before serving for an extra zing.
• This adds both sweetness and a shiny finish that makes the cake visually appealing.

Dessert Buffet

• Include Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake as part of a dessert buffet with other treats like cookies and brownies.
• Arrange the slices on a tiered stand for an attractive display.

Coffee Pairing

• Serve alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
• The citrus flavor pairs well with both hot beverages, enhancing the overall taste experience.

How to Perfect Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

To ensure your Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow butter, eggs, and buttermilk to sit at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Avoid packing flour into your measuring cup. Spoon it into the cup and level it off with a knife for accurate measurement, ensuring your cake isn’t dense.
• Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a tougher cake texture.
• Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to test for doneness around 40 minutes. Insert it into the center; it should come out with moist crumbs instead of wet batter.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake can enhance its flavors and make your meal more satisfying. Here are some great suggestions:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mixture of seasonal fruits complements the cake’s citrus notes perfectly.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a creamy contrast to the cake’s texture.
3. Ice Cream Sundae: Vanilla or lemon sorbet creates a delicious contrast when served alongside slices of cake.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses balances out the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
5. Chilled Tea: Iced herbal or green tea offers a refreshing drink option that pairs well with dessert.
6. Roasted Nuts: A small bowl of lightly salted roasted almonds or cashews adds crunch and savory flavor to your dessert spread.
7. Muffins: Serve mini blueberry or lemon muffins as an additional sweet treat that echoes the flavors in the cake.
8. Pudding Cups: Light lemon pudding cups offer another layer of citrus delight when served alongside slices of cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake can be delightful, but certain mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the parchment paper: Not using parchment paper can make it difficult to remove the cake from the pan. Always line your baking dish for easier removal.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature may result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if necessary.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Improper measurements can ruin your cake. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision in baking.
• Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into the cake while it’s still warm can cause it to crumble. Allow it to cool completely before slicing for perfect pieces.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

• Wrap in plastic wrap, then foil for maximum freshness.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm the cake for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries! Just toss them with a bit of flour before adding them to the batter to prevent them from sinking.

How do I know when my Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out with moist crumbs, it’s done. If there’s wet batter, give it more time.

Can I substitute other fruits in this sheet cake?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with fruits like raspberries or strawberries for a delicious twist on this recipe.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is not only easy and quick to prepare but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether you’re serving it at summer BBQs or enjoying it as a snack, its bright flavors will surely delight everyone. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe by adding nuts or other berries!