Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake, a dessert that combines the zing of lemon with the sweetness of blueberries. This easy recipe is perfect for gatherings, bringing a refreshing touch to any occasion. Its moist texture and vibrant colors make it not only tasty but also visually appealing, ensuring that it will be a hit at your next summer party or family reunion.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

This cake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience!

• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of tart lemon and sweet blueberries creates a deliciously balanced taste that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, potluck, or casual get-together, this cake is sure to impress.
• Serves a Crowd: Its generous size means you can easily feed a large group without stress.
• Beautiful Presentation: The marbled effect of the blueberry swirl makes this cake as stunning as it is delicious.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, it’s essential to gather your tools and prepare your workspace.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
• Rubber spatula
• Large cookie sheet (11×17 pan)
• Glass measuring cup
• Fork or knife for glazing

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing the batter easy and efficient, ensuring a smooth texture.
• Rubber spatula: Helps scrape down the sides of your bowl to incorporate all ingredients thoroughly.
• Large cookie sheet: Perfectly sized for baking this sheet cake evenly.

Ingredients

For the Cake Batter

• 1 lemon cake mix
• 1 (3.4 ounce) box instant lemon pudding
• 1/4 C flour
• 1/3 C oil
• 4 eggs
• 1 1/2 C water
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1/3 C sour cream
• 1 Tb lemon zest

For the Blueberry Swirl

• 1 (21 ounce) can blueberry pie filling
• 2 Tb butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla
• dash salt

For the Lemon Glaze

• 1/4 C fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 3 C powdered sugar
• 2 Tb milk
• 1 tsp vanilla
• dash salt

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How to Make Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step ensures that your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. In a stand mixer or large mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, instant lemon pudding, and flour. Toss together to mix well.
2. Add the remaining ingredients for the cake batter: oil, eggs, water, vanilla, sour cream, and lemon zest. Mix on low speed for 1 minute.
3. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula. Continue mixing on medium speed for an additional 2 minutes until thick and glossy.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Pan

Spray your large cookie sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the cake batter evenly over the pan.

Step 4: Make the Blueberry Swirl

In a glass measuring cup, combine the blueberry pie filling, melted butter, vanilla, and dash of salt. Heat in the microwave for about 1 minute until warm.

Step 5: Create Swirls in Cake Batter

Drop small spoonfuls of the blueberry mixture onto the top of your cake batter about 1 inch apart. Use a butter knife to gently swirl through both mixtures creating a marbled effect.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Place in preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cooling for 5 minutes after baking.

Step 7: Prepare Lemon Glaze While Baking

While your cake is cooling, whisk together all ingredients for the Lemon Glaze until smooth and thin.

Step 8: Poke Holes in Cake

Using a fork, poke holes into the warm cake every 2-3 inches apart. This helps absorb some of that delicious glaze!

Step 9: Drizzle Lemon Glaze Over Cake

Immediately drizzle your prepared Lemon Glaze over top of the warm cake, spreading it out evenly with a knife as needed. Enjoy your delightful creation!

How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

This Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether it’s a casual family gathering or a festive celebration, these serving suggestions will elevate your dessert experience.

Personal Slices

• Serve each guest a generous slice of cake, ensuring they get both lemon and blueberry swirls.

With Whipped Cream

• Top individual slices with freshly whipped cream for added richness and creaminess that complements the flavors beautifully.

A La Mode

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side or on top of the warm cake for a delicious contrast of temperatures and textures.

With Fresh Berries

• Garnish each slice with fresh blueberries or raspberries to enhance the fruity elements and add a pop of color.

Drizzled with Extra Glaze

• Offer extra lemon glaze on the side for those who want an extra zesty kick with their cake.

How to Perfect Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

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

• Use room temperature ingredients – This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.
• Don’t overmix – Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
• Check oven temperature – Ensure your oven is properly calibrated; an incorrect temperature can lead to uneven baking.
• Let it cool before glazing – Allowing the cake to cool prevents the glaze from melting into the cake too quickly.
• Store properly – Keep leftover cake covered at room temperature or in the fridge for optimal freshness.

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Best Side Dishes for Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

This Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake pairs wonderfully with several side dishes. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside it that will complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a burst of freshness that balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Lemon Sorbet
   The tartness of lemon sorbet enhances the citrus notes in the cake while providing a cool, refreshing contrast.
3. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layer Greek yogurt, granola, and berries for a creamy, crunchy side that works well with dessert.
4. Pistachio Salad
   This nutty salad offers texture and flavor that pairs nicely with the soft cake.
5. Minted Pea Salad
   A light pea salad with mint adds brightness and freshness, making it an ideal complement to this rich dessert.
6. Coconut Macaroons
   These chewy treats bring tropical flavors that harmonize beautifully with lemon and blueberry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Using cold ingredients – Always ensure your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps the batter mix smoothly.
• Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can make the cake tough. Aim for just enough mixing to combine the ingredients.
• Skipping the lemon zest – The zest adds essential flavor. Don’t skip it; it enhances both the cake and glaze.
• Not swirling properly – When adding the blueberry swirl, don’t just drop it on top. Swirl gently to create a beautiful marbled effect.
• Ignoring baking time – Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Every oven is different, so check for doneness with a toothpick.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container.
• It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Instructions

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake wrapped slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat; cover and warm for about 5 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fruits in my Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake?

You can certainly substitute other fruits! Strawberries or raspberries work well with lemon flavors.

What makes this Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake so special?

The combination of moist lemon cake with a sweet blueberry swirl, topped with zesty lemon glaze, makes it unique and refreshing.

How do I ensure my Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake rises properly?

Make sure your baking powder is fresh, and follow the mixing instructions carefully to incorporate air into the batter.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free cake mix and all-purpose flour alternative that measures cup-for-cup.

What can I serve with Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake?

This cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

The Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. Its bright flavors make it perfect for any occasion, from summer gatherings to cozy family dinners. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding nuts or experimenting with different fruit swirls. Give this delightful dessert a try!