Lemon Sheet Cake – Best Creamy Citrus Cake Recipe

Bright, zesty, and topped with rich, tangy frosting, this Lemon Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a refreshing twist on classic comfort baking. The vibrant citrus flavor combined with a fluffy, buttery crumb makes it the perfect dessert for spring gatherings, birthdays, or any time you crave something light yet indulgent. What makes this lemon sheet cake truly irresistible is the luscious layer of cream cheese frosting — a perfect balance of sweet and tangy that enhances every bite. Easy to make in a single pan, this dessert is also ideal for feeding a crowd without the fuss of layer cakes.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Cake Recipe

This Lemon Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting stands out for its simplicity, flavor, and versatility. It’s:

• Moist and fluffy: Thanks to the use of cake flour and a precise ratio of fats and leaveners.
• Zesty and aromatic: Fresh lemon zest and extract deliver bold citrus flavor.
• Perfectly balanced: Sweet, rich cream cheese frosting complements the tart lemon base.
• Easy to prepare: Bakes in a 9×13 pan — no layers, no stacking, minimal cleanup.
• Crowd-friendly: Generous portions make it ideal for potlucks, holidays, or weekday treats.

Whether you’re a lemon lover or looking for a show-stopping spring dessert, this cake is bound to be on repeat.

Ingredients for Lemon Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

For the Cake

• Cake Flour: Provides a soft, tender crumb.
• Baking Powder: Essential for lift and fluffiness.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds rich flavor and helps create a moist texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and supports structure.
• Eggs: Bind the batter and contribute to a light, airy texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the citrus with warm undertones.
• Lemon Extract: Intensifies the lemon flavor in every bite.
• Milk: Adds moisture and ensures a smooth, pourable batter.
• Fresh Lemon Zest: Provides natural oils and a pop of real lemon aroma.
• Sprinkles (Optional): Add visual appeal and a touch of fun.
• Candied Lemon Slices (Optional): Enhance presentation and flavor contrast.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• Cream Cheese: Tangy and smooth, it’s the star of the frosting.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps whip the frosting to a fluffy texture.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and stiffens the frosting without graininess.
• Vanilla Extract: Provides depth and aroma.

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

Dietary-Friendly Alternatives

• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend with xanthan gum.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute plant-based butter and vegan cream cheese.
• Egg-Free: Replace each egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or flax eggs.
• No Lemon Extract: Use extra zest or a tablespoon of lemon juice for a subtler flavor.
• Low-Sugar Option: Use a granulated sugar substitute suitable for baking.

These adjustments allow you to enjoy this cake regardless of dietary restrictions or pantry limitations.

How to Make Lemon Sheet Cake Step-by-Step

1. Prepare the Pan and Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray and line it with parchment paper. Lightly spray the parchment again.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
   In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the butter and sugar on medium speed for 3–4 minutes until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Flavorings
   Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and lemon extracts.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
   With the mixer on low, add half the flour mixture. Pour in the milk, mix briefly, then add the remaining dry ingredients. Beat until just combined.
6. Fold in Lemon Zest
   Add the freshly grated lemon zest and gently fold it into the batter.
7. Bake the Cake
   Transfer the batter to the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool Completely
   Let the cake cool fully in the pan. For easier frosting, lift it out using the parchment paper.
9. Make the Frosting
   In a clean mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
10. Frost and Decorate
    Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Decorate with sprinkles or candied lemon slices if desired.

Expert Tips to Perfect Your Lemon Cake

• Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: Butter, eggs, and cream cheese mix more easily and evenly when not cold.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cake light and airy.
• Check Doneness Early: Start checking the cake at 25 minutes to avoid overbaking.
• Zest Before Juicing: If using fresh lemons, zest them first to capture all the fragrant oils.
• Frost Only When Cool: Warm cake will melt your frosting and ruin the texture.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.

What to Serve with Lemon Sheet Cake

Delicious Pairings

• Whipped Cream: A light topping to balance the richness.
• Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add color and flavor.
• Lemon Curd Drizzle: For extra tartness and a gourmet touch.
• Hot or Iced Tea: Chamomile or green tea pairs beautifully with lemon.

Creative Variations

• Lemon Blueberry Cake: Add 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter.
• Spicy Citrus: A pinch of ground ginger or cardamom offers warmth.
• Lavender Lemon Cake: Infuse the milk with dried lavender for floral notes.
• Lemon Coconut Cake: Add shredded coconut to the batter or sprinkle on top.

These pairings and spins keep your Lemon Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting interesting and versatile for different occasions.

When to Serve Lemon Sheet Cake

This cake’s fresh flavor and easy prep make it perfect for:

• Spring and Summer Gatherings: Ideal for Easter, Mother’s Day, or bridal showers.
• Weeknight Desserts: Quick to bake and even better the next day.
• Potlucks and Picnics: Easy to transport and crowd-pleasing.
• Holiday Brunches: A citrusy alternative to heavier desserts.
• Tea Parties or Birthdays: Elegant yet approachable for guests of all ages.

With its balance of sweet, tart, and creamy elements, this Lemon Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting deserves a spot in your go-to dessert lineup all year long.

Conclusion

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, need a reliable potluck dessert, or just want to brighten your day with something sweet and citrusy, this Lemon Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting delivers every time. Its fluffy crumb, vibrant lemon zest, and luscious cream cheese frosting come together in a no-fuss sheet cake format that’s simple to make and impossible to resist. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this recipe is a go-to for any season and occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

More Relevant Recipes

• Apple Cider Layer Cake: A moist and flavorful cake layered with apple cider-infused frosting, this dessert delivers warm fall vibes similar to a lemon sheet cake but with a spiced twist that’s equally crowd-pleasing and seasonal.
• Pumpkin Salted Caramel Cake: This rich and indulgent cake combines the warmth of pumpkin with the decadence of salted caramel, offering a dense yet tender crumb and frosting that parallels the tangy sweetness of cream cheese in lemon cake.
• Chai Cheesecake: Featuring spiced chai flavors and a creamy texture, this cheesecake is a comforting and aromatic option with the same luxurious mouthfeel as the cream cheese frosting on a lemon sheet cake, making it a perfect alternative for spice lovers.

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