Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Easy, quick, and delicious, Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is perfect for summer BBQs, picnics, or just a tasty snack at home. This delightful dessert combines the bright flavor of lemons with juicy blueberries for a refreshing treat that everyone will love. Its fluffy texture and sweet glaze make it an irresistible choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up this cake.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for parties, family gatherings, or casual snacks.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lemon and blueberries creates a fresh and zesty taste.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it as a dessert or enjoy it with your morning coffee.
• Eye-catching Presentation: The vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a light texture.
• Parchment paper: Helps in easy removal of the cake from the baking dish without sticking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently and keeping your workspace organized.

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. This will create an overhang on the two long sides of the pan, making it easier to lift the cake out later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients—flour through salt. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

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 in the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and buttermilk. Mix on low speed until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients until no streaks of flour remain. Stir in the lemon juice and zest. Gently fold in the blueberries using a spatula to prevent them from breaking apart.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

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

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

To make the glaze, combine powdered sugar with lemon juice in a bowl. Pour this mixture over your cooled cake once it’s ready. Let it harden before garnishing with fresh fruit if desired.

Enjoy this delightful Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake, which is sure to impress friends and family alike!

How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is a delightful treat that can shine at any gathering. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Fresh Fruit Topping

• Serve with a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or more blueberries for added color and flavor.

Whipped Cream

• A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that complements the cake’s richness.

Lemon Zest Garnish

• Sprinkle some extra lemon zest on top for an aromatic burst that brightens up each slice.

Ice Cream

• Pair your cake with a scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet for a refreshing contrast, especially on warm days.

Tea or Lemonade

• Serve with a glass of iced tea or lemonade to create a complete summer vibe, perfect for BBQs and picnics.

Cake Pops

• Transform leftovers into cake pops by crumbling the cake, mixing it with frosting, and rolling them into balls on sticks for fun finger food!

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How to Perfect Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Creating the perfect Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter and better rise.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than the desired light texture.

• Quality Blueberries: Use fresh blueberries for the best flavor. Frozen blueberries can be used but may alter the texture slightly.

• Check Doneness Carefully: Begin checking for doneness around 40 minutes. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake can elevate your meal. Here are some delightful options to consider.

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with honey and granola for a nutritious complement that balances sweetness.

2. Salad with Citrus Dressing: A fresh green salad drizzled with citrus vinaigrette enhances the cake’s lemony flavors while providing a crisp contrast.

3. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses like goat cheese or brie; their creamy textures create an interesting balance against the cake’s sweetness.

4. Fruit Salad: A simple fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits highlights freshness and provides a refreshing bite alongside dessert.

5. Charcuterie Board: Include cured meats, nuts, and olives; this savory array pairs beautifully with sweet desserts like Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake.

6. Chilled Soup: A cucumber or watermelon soup served cold acts as a refreshing starter before enjoying your slice of cake.

7. Savory Scones: Consider serving herb-infused scones as a unique side that contrasts nicely with the dessert’s sweetness.

8. Sparkling Water: Add slices of lemon or cucumber to sparkling water for a refreshing drink option that enhances your overall dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect your final result. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make the cake dense. Mix just until combined for a lighter texture.
• Ignoring Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Make sure ingredients are at room temperature for better incorporation.
• Not Tossing Blueberries in Flour: Skipping this step may cause blueberries to sink. Lightly tossing them in flour helps them stay suspended in the batter.
• Skipping the Toothpick Test: Not checking for doneness can result in an undercooked cake. Use a toothpick and remove when moist crumbs cling.
• Using Old Ingredients: Expired baking powder or stale flour can ruin your cake. Always use fresh ingredients for the best taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: The sheet cake stays fresh in the fridge for about 4-5 days.
• Container: Store in an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap.

Freezing Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

• Duration: The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Container: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, covered, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake that may help you:

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the batter. Toss them with flour as well.

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

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs but no wet batter.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can mix milk with vinegar or lemon juice (1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar) as a quick substitute.

How should I store leftover Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake?

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

Final Thoughts

The Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is not only quick and easy but also incredibly delicious! Its bright flavors are perfect for any occasion, from summer BBQs to cozy family gatherings. You can even customize it by adding other fruits or adjusting sweetness levels. Try making this delightful cake today!