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 flavor of lemon with sweet blueberries. This cake is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, making it suitable for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or a simple family treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This cake comes together in just a few easy steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh blueberries and tangy lemon creates a refreshing taste that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, picnic, or casual evening at home, this cake fits right in.
• A Crowd-Pleaser: With 16 servings, it’s ideal for sharing and will impress your friends and family.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as is or dress it up with a glaze and fresh fruit for an elegant touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake, gather the essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools make it easy to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
• Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls helps keep dry and wet ingredients organized during preparation.
• Spatula: A spatula is essential for gently folding in blueberries without crushing them.

Ingredients

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 your oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish and line it with parchment paper. Leave an overhang on the two long sides of the pan; this will help you lift out the cake later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/4 teaspoon 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:
1 cup butter (softened)
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

Beat until light and fluffy. Then add:
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk

Mix on low speed until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until no streaks of flour remain. Next, mix in:
Juice of 2 lemons
Zest of 2 lemons

Finally, gently stir in:
1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries (tossed with flour)

Step 5: Bake the Cake

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

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

For the glaze, combine:
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/3 cup lemon juice

Pour over the cooled cake once it’s set. You can garnish with fresh fruit before serving if desired! Enjoy your delicious Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake!

How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that brightens any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your cake experience.

For a Refreshing Dessert

• Top with Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy texture.
• Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm cake.
• Pair with Fresh Berries: Garnish each slice with extra blueberries and raspberries for added color and flavor.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Sliced with Yogurt: Serve alongside Greek yogurt for a refreshing brunch option.
• Accompanied by Mimosas: Pair slices with mimosas for a festive touch at brunch gatherings.
• On a Cheese Board: Include it on a dessert cheese board along with soft cheeses and honey.

For Afternoon Tea

• With Hot Tea or Coffee: Serve warm slices with your favorite tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.
• As Mini Bites: Cut into small squares for easy sharing at tea parties.

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How to Perfect Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Perfecting your Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is all about the details. Follow these tips to ensure your cake turns out moist and flavorful every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Zest Fresh Lemons: Use fresh lemon zest for the best flavor; avoid bottled lemon juice.
• Bake Until Just Done: Check the cake a few minutes before the timer goes off; it should spring back when touched.
• Cool Completely Before Glazing: Allow the cake to cool fully before adding glaze to prevent it from melting away.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits enhances the refreshing taste of the cake.
2. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
3. Pistachio Crust Cheesecake Bites: Small bites of cheesecake add richness without being too heavy.
4. Strawberry Shortcake Cups: Light strawberry shortcake cups make for a perfect pairing during summer months.
5. Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: The salty-sweet combination balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
6. Homemade Lemonade: A glass of homemade lemonade can amplify the lemony goodness of your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a perfect Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can prevent your cake from rising properly. Always use room temperature ingredients for the best results.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can lead to a dense cake. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make the cake tough. Mix just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Without parchment, your cake may stick to the pan. Always line your baking dish for easy removal.
• Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into a warm cake can ruin its texture. Allow your Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake to cool completely before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep the cake at room temperature for a day if it’s not frosted.

Freezing Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• Frozen cake can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Warm individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering it until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use frozen blueberries for Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake?

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

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.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace buttermilk with milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice if needed.

What makes this Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake so special?

The combination of fresh blueberries and zesty lemon creates a delightful flavor that is perfect for any occasion!

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is not only easy and quick to make, but it also offers a bright burst of flavor that everyone will love. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or as an everyday snack. Feel free to customize it by adding different fruits or flavors according to your preferences!