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Lemon Sheet Cake

Lemon Sheet Cake: A Dreamy Citrus Delight for Every Occasion

Lemon Sheet Cake is a zesty and delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2 cups cake flour Provides a tender texture; substitute with all-purpose flour for a denser cake.
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar Adds sweetness and structure; crucial for leavening during baking.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder Essential leavening agent; ensure freshness for maximum rise.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Essential leavening agent; ensure freshness for maximum rise.
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt Enhances overall flavor; balances the sweetness beautifully.
  • 1 cup unsalted butter Adds moisture and richness; dairy-free options can be used if needed.
  • 4 large eggs Essential for structure and moisture; use large, room-temperature eggs for the best results.
  • 1 cup buttermilk Contributes moisture and tang; can be substituted with milk and lemon juice if not available.
  • 0.25 cups fresh lemon juice The star flavor component; fresh is crucial for the ultimate lemon taste.
  • Zest of 2 lemons The star flavor component; fresh is crucial for the ultimate lemon taste.
For the Frosting
  • 8 ounces cream cheese Core ingredient that provides tanginess and richness; full-fat for the best texture.
  • 4 cups powdered sugar Sweetens and smooths out the frosting; sift before measuring to avoid lumps.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Enhances the frosting’s lemon zing; adjust to taste for desired tanginess.
  • Zest of 1 lemon Enhances the frosting’s lemon zing; adjust to taste for desired tanginess.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds depth to the frosting flavor; pure vanilla is recommended for the best results.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer
  • spatula
  • Sheet Pan
  • parchment paper
  • wire rack

Method
 

Baking Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 12x17 inch sheet pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  4. Gradually add the dry flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, alternating between the two, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the lemon juice and zest.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges pull away from the sides and a toothpick comes out clean.
  6. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  7. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then gradually add the powdered sugar. Fold in the lemon juice and lemon zest to taste.
  8. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake and garnish with additional lemon zest or slices if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 4gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store the frosted cake in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to 4-5 days. Unfrosted, it can be frozen for up to 2 months.

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