Lemon Sheet Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Sheet Cake is a bright, zesty dessert with a tender crumb and a tangy-sweet glaze that soaks into the warm cake. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this easy-to-make cake delivers refreshing citrus flavor in every bite and is ideal for spring and summer gatherings, potlucks, or afternoon treats.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose floursugarunsalted buttereggsbuttermilk or milk + lemon juicelemon zestlemon juicebaking powderbaking sodasaltvanilla extract

for the glaze

powdered sugarmelted buttermilk or milklemon juicelemon zest

directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.

Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry.

Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

While the cake is warm, whisk together glaze ingredients and pour over the cake, spreading evenly.

Let the cake cool completely to allow the glaze to set.

Servings and timing

Serves: 12–16Preparation time: 20 minutesBaking time: 25–30 minutesCooling and glazing time: 30 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Add poppy seeds for a lemon-poppy twist.

Top with whipped cream or berries for extra flair.

Use a lemon cream cheese frosting instead of glaze.

Swap vanilla extract for almond extract for a subtle twist.

storage/reheating

Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.Best served at room temperature. Freeze unfrosted or glazed slices for up to 2 months—thaw before serving.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

What type of frosting works well?

A lemon glaze or lemon cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully.

Can I bake this in a different pan?

Yes, use a larger or smaller pan and adjust baking time accordingly.

Is this cake very tart?

It’s more sweet with a tangy lemon finish—adjust lemon juice or zest to taste.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, it’s even better the next day once the glaze has soaked in.

Conclusion

Lemon Sheet Cake is a light, flavorful dessert that balances bright citrus with soft, buttery richness. Simple yet elegant, it’s the perfect sweet for sunny days, family events, or anytime you need a little lemony lift.

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