Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Indulge in a delightful Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake that brings together the zesty flavor of lemon with juicy blueberries. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for summer gatherings, birthday parties, or any occasion that calls for a refreshing treat. With its moist texture and a tangy lemon glaze, this cake is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of lemon and blueberry creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for various occasions, from potlucks to family gatherings, this cake suits any celebration.
• Moist and Delicious: The addition of sour cream ensures the cake stays moist and flavorful.
• Beautiful Presentation: The marbled effect from the blueberry swirl makes it visually appealing for your dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or large mixing bowl: A stand mixer helps combine the ingredients effortlessly, ensuring a smooth batter.
• Rubber spatula: This tool is perfect for scraping down the sides of the bowl to fully incorporate all ingredients.
• Large cookie sheet: A spacious baking surface allows the cake to bake evenly and provides enough room for swirling the blueberry mixture.

Ingredients

For this mouthwatering Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake, you will need the following 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 an even baking temperature for your cake.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Into your stand mixer or large mixing bowl, place:
1. Cake mix
2. Pudding mix
3. Flour

Toss together to combine these dry ingredients.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the following ingredients to your dry mixture:
1. Oil
2. Eggs
3. Water
4. Vanilla extract
5. Sour cream
6. Lemon zest

Mix on low speed for 1 minute. Then use a rubber spatula to scrape down the bottom of the bowl before mixing on medium speed for an additional 2 minutes until thick and glossy.

Step 4: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Spray a large cookie sheet (11×17 pan) with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the batter out evenly over the pan.

Step 5: Make Blueberry Swirl Mixture

In a glass measuring cup, combine:
1. Blueberry pie filling
2. Melted butter
3. Vanilla extract
4. Dash of salt

Heat in the microwave for 1 minute until warm.

Step 6: Create Swirls in Batter

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

Step 7: Bake Your Cake

Bake in preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cooling for about 5 minutes.

Step 8: Prepare Lemon Glaze

While baking, whisk together all Lemon Glaze ingredients until smooth and thin enough to drizzle over cake.

Step 9: Poke Holes

Once cooled slightly, take a fork and poke holes into the cake every 2-3 inches.

Step 10: Drizzle with Glaze

Immediately drizzle your Lemon Glaze over the warm cake, spreading it as evenly as possible with a knife.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake!

How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a summer picnic or a cozy family gathering, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cake experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve slices of the cake topped with fresh blueberries and raspberries for an extra burst of flavor.
• Garnish with mint leaves for a refreshing touch.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pair your cake with a scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet to enhance the citrusy notes.
• Consider drizzling some blueberry sauce over the ice cream for added sweetness.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice for a creamy contrast.
• For an extra zing, sprinkle some lemon zest over the whipped cream.

Lemon Curd Drizzle

• Drizzle homemade lemon curd on top before serving for an intense lemon flavor.
• This adds richness and pairs beautifully with the blueberry swirl.

Coffee or Tea Pairing

• Enjoy your cake with a cup of coffee or iced tea for a perfect afternoon treat.
• The citrus flavors complement both beverages nicely.

How to Perfect Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

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

• Choose high-quality ingredients: Using fresh lemons and quality blueberries makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Measure accurately: Ensure you measure all ingredients precisely. This helps achieve the right texture and consistency in the cake.
• Mix gently: When combining the blueberry swirl into the batter, avoid over-mixing to maintain the beautiful marbled effect.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Ovens can vary, so check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time.
• Let it cool: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the glaze. This helps prevent it from melting off and ensures even coverage.

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Best Side Dishes for Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is versatile enough to pair with various side dishes. Here are some delightful options that complement its flavors well.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits like strawberries, kiwi, and melons provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layers of Greek yogurt with granola and more blueberries create a deliciously creamy side that balances out the dessert’s sweetness.
3. Cucumber Salad
   A light cucumber salad dressed in vinaigrette offers crispness that pairs well with rich desserts like this sheet cake.
4. Lemonade
   Refreshing lemonade enhances the citrus notes in your dessert while keeping things light and zesty.
5. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses such as brie or goat cheese complements the sweet-tart flavors without overpowering them.
6. Pistachio Nuts
   Roasted pistachios add a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake while bringing earthy flavors to balance sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking the perfect Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Using cold ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, like eggs and sour cream, are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Aim for a thick and glossy batter without lumps.
• Not swirling enough: When adding the blueberry mixture, make sure to create a nice marbled effect for balanced flavor in every bite.
• Ignoring baking time: Check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time with a toothpick. Overbaking can dry out your cake.
• Skipping the glaze: The lemon glaze adds essential moisture and flavor. Don’t skip this step, as it elevates the overall taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• You can freeze it for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Place the cake on a baking sheet covered with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 10-15 seconds on medium power. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
• Stovetop: For a quick reheat, place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering it to keep the warmth in. This takes about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make a gluten-free version of Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake?

You can replace the lemon cake mix and flour with a gluten-free cake mix and gluten-free flour blend. Follow the same instructions for mixing and baking.

Can I use fresh blueberries instead of pie filling?

Absolutely! Fresh blueberries can be used; just toss them in some flour before adding them to prevent sinking into the batter.

What are some variations of Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake?

Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans or incorporating other fruits like raspberries or strawberries for different flavors.

How do I store leftover Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze them for up to three months.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake it one day prior and store it in the fridge. Add the lemon glaze just before serving for freshness.

Final Thoughts

The Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake is not just easy but also incredibly refreshing! Its combination of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries makes it perfect for summer gatherings or any special occasion. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite fruits or nuts for an extra twist. Give it a try, and enjoy this delightful dessert!