Irresistible Lemon Sheet Cake Recipe for Citrus Lovers

Name: Lemon Sheet Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 2 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter (softened); 3 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; Zest of 2 lemons; ⅓ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)

Recipe By:

Jennifer

Posted:

September 19, 2025

Updated:

September 19, 2025

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Lemon Sheet Cake is like a sunbeam on a plate, bursting with citrus goodness that makes your taste buds dance. Imagine a fluffy, moist cake drizzled with zesty lemon glaze, inviting you to indulge in its sweet-tart embrace. The aroma wafting through your kitchen is enough to turn any bad day around—trust me, even the grumpiest of cats will perk up at the scent of this delightful treat.

Now, let me take you back to a summer barbecue at my grandma’s house. She would serve her famous Lemon Sheet Cake, which always disappeared faster than you could say “lemonade.” Each bite brought back memories of sunshine and laughter, and it was the highlight of every gathering. So grab your apron; we’re about to create some delicious nostalgia!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Sheet Cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
With its bright flavor profile, it’s a burst of sunshine in every bite.
The stunning yellow color and glossy glaze make it an eye-catching centerpiece for any occasion.
Versatile enough for parties, picnics, or just because you deserve a treat!

Ingredients for Lemon Sheet Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for our cake; sift it for a lighter texture.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness; don’t skimp—this cake loves sugar!
Baking Powder: Essential for that perfect rise; check the expiration date!
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors; it’s like magic!
Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature butter for easier mixing and richer flavor.
Eggs: Helps bind everything together; use large eggs if possible.
Milk: Adds moisture and creates that delightful crumb; whole milk works best.
Lemon Zest: For that zing! Fresh zest packs more punch than bottled.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice adds bright acidity; skip the bottled stuff!
Powdered Sugar: For the luscious glaze that will make your cake shine.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Lemon Sheet Cake

How to Make Lemon Sheet Cake

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. This ensures an easy release once our cake is baked.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until combined. This simple step helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the cake.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream together unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy—around five minutes should do the trick. This aeration is key!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavor

Beat in eggs one at a time until well combined. Then add lemon zest and fresh lemon juice. Mix until everything looks happy together.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Alternately add dry ingredients and milk into the butter mixture, starting with dry ingredients and ending with them. Stir gently until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough cake!

Step 6: Bake Away

Pour the batter into your prepared baking sheet and spread evenly. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown on top (a toothpick inserted should come out clean).

To serve, let cool completely before drizzling with your glorious lemon glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with lemon juice—a tangy finish that completes the experience! Enjoy each slice while reminiscing about those sunny days filled with joy and laughter!

You Must Know

This delightful lemon sheet cake is not just a treat; it’s a slice of sunshine on a plate.
Its zesty flavor can brighten any day, making it perfect for everything from casual gatherings to fancy celebrations.
Easy to whip up and deliciously moist, your guests will be begging for the recipe!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix your dry ingredients separately while your butter and sugar cream together. Then, add eggs one at a time. Gradually incorporate the dry mix and wet ingredients for a smooth batter before pouring it into your prepared pan.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out some of the flour for almond flour for added nuttiness or incorporate blueberries for a fruity twist. You can also experiment with different citrus zest like lime or orange if you’re feeling adventurous. The possibilities are endless!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover lemon sheet cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Simply warm it in the microwave for a few seconds before serving!

Chef's Helpful Tips

To ensure your lemon sheet cake is light and fluffy, make sure your butter is at room temperature before mixing.
Don’t skip the zest; it packs in tons of flavor!
Always measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the cup and leveling off.

Sometimes, I make this cake when I need a quick pick-me-up after a long week. One bite transports me back to my grandma’s kitchen, where every dessert was made with love and just enough zest to keep things interesting!

FAQs :

What is the best way to store Lemon Sheet Cake?

To keep your Lemon Sheet Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating it. Just make sure to wrap it properly to prevent it from drying out. For long-term storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method helps retain the cake’s moisture and flavor, allowing you to enjoy your dessert later.

Can I use fresh lemons for the icing on Lemon Sheet Cake?

Absolutely! Using fresh lemons for the icing on your Lemon Sheet Cake enhances the flavor significantly. Fresh lemon juice and zest provide a bright, tangy taste that complements the sweetness of the cake. Simply mix powdered sugar with freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest until you achieve your desired consistency. This homemade icing will elevate your cake and give it a delightful citrus punch.

How can I make my Lemon Sheet Cake more moist?

To ensure your Lemon Sheet Cake remains moist, consider adding sour cream or Greek yogurt to the batter. These ingredients not only add moisture but also enhance the overall flavor profile of the cake. Another tip is to avoid overbaking; check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time ends. Additionally, brushing a simple syrup made from lemon juice and sugar over the warm cake can help lock in moisture.

Can I substitute gluten-free flour in my Lemon Sheet Cake recipe?

Yes, you can substitute gluten-free flour in your Lemon Sheet Cake recipe! Many gluten-free all-purpose flour blends work well as a one-to-one replacement for regular flour. However, be mindful that texture might vary slightly. Adding an extra egg or using almond flour alongside gluten-free flour can create a more tender crumb. Always check that other ingredients are also gluten-free if necessary.

Conclusion for Lemon Sheet Cake :

Lemon Sheet Cake is a delightful treat that combines bright citrus flavors with a moist texture. By using fresh lemons and proper storage techniques, you can enjoy this cake at its best. Remember to keep an eye on baking times to maintain moisture and consider adding yogurt for extra softness. With these tips and tricks in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious Lemon Sheet Cake that everyone will love!

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