Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Easy, quick, and delicious, Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion—be it summer BBQs, birthdays, or just a delightful snack. This cake features the bright flavors of lemon paired with fresh blueberries, making it not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can whip this up in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries makes each bite refreshing.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.
• Versatile Dessert: Great for parties, picnics, or afternoon tea; this cake fits any occasion.
• Feeds a Crowd: Yielding 16 generous servings, it’s ideal for gatherings.
• Beautiful Presentation: The colorful blueberries and glossy glaze make this cake a showstopper.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools save time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together.
• 9×13 baking dish: The perfect size for sheet cakes ensures even baking and easy serving.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding in delicate ingredients like blueberries without crushing them.

Ingredients

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

For the Cake

• 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

For the Glaze

• 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/3 cup lemon juice

How to Make Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish, then line it with parchment paper. Make sure there’s an overhang on the two long sides; this will help you lift the cake out easily later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a hand mixer), cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk. Mix on low speed until everything is well incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until there are no streaks of flour left. Then incorporate the lemon juice and zest.

Step 6: Fold in Blueberries

Gently stir in the fresh blueberries using a rubber spatula to avoid smashing them.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

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

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

For the glaze, combine powdered sugar with lemon juice in a bowl. Pour it over your cooled cake once it has set.

With these steps completed, your delightful Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake will be ready to impress! Enjoy every bite of this bright and refreshing dessert.

How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or looking for a sweet treat, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cake experience.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for added richness and a creamy texture.

Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of warm cake and cold ice cream is heavenly.

Garnish with Extra Blueberries

• Add a handful of fresh blueberries on top for an extra burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Drizzle with Berry Sauce

• Enhance the taste by drizzling some homemade berry sauce over the cake. This adds both flavor and visual appeal.

Enjoy with Lemonade

• Pairing this cake with a glass of chilled lemonade makes for a refreshing summer treat that’s hard to resist.

Serve at Room Temperature

• For the best flavor, allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving. This will enhance its sweetness and lemony notes.

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How to Perfect Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Perfecting your Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is easy with these tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure your cake turns out moist and delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemons and blueberries make a noticeable difference in flavor. Always choose quality produce.

• Don’t overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.

• Check doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake to check for doneness. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

• Cool properly: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the glaze. This helps it set perfectly without sliding off.

• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer less sweet frosting, reduce the powdered sugar in the glaze slightly, adjusting it to your taste.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cake and adds vibrant colors.

2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt, granola, and berries create a creamy and crunchy dish that complements the cake perfectly.

3. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette offers crispness that contrasts well with the rich cake.

4. Charcuterie Board: A selection of cheeses, meats, and pickled veggies provides savory elements that pair nicely with sweet desserts.

5. Roasted Vegetables: Simple roasted vegetables add depth and earthiness, creating an enjoyable contrast against the sweetness of the cake.

6. Pineapple Salsa: This tropical salsa brings brightness and acidity, enhancing all flavors when served alongside your dessert.

7. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction offer freshness that pairs beautifully with dessert.

8. Mini Quiches: Savory mini quiches provide variety while keeping things light—a perfect accompaniment to your sweet finish!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to ensure your cake turns out perfect.

• Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining your baking dish can lead to a messy removal. Always use parchment paper for easier lifting.
• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Using the wrong amounts can affect the texture and flavor. Always measure flour and sugar accurately for the best results.
• Overmixing the batter: This can make your cake dense and tough. Mix until just combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can prevent proper mixing. Let these ingredients come to room temperature before starting.
• Ignoring the cooling time: Cutting into the cake while it’s warm can cause it to crumble. Allow your Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake to cool completely for clean slices.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The cake will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
• It 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 warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat a slice for about 20-30 seconds on medium power for quick warming.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake.

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just toss them in flour before adding them to the batter, but do not thaw them beforehand.

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

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs, typically after 40-45 minutes of baking.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

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

How should I serve Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake?

This cake is delightful served with fresh fruit on top or alongside whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion! Whether you’re celebrating summer BBQs or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon snack, this cake will surely impress. Feel free to customize it with other fruits or add nuts for an extra crunch!