Introduction

There's something undeniably inviting about the aroma of strawberries baking in the oven, especially in a delightfully moist sheet cake. This Strawberry Sheet Cake with Lemon Frosting combines the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries with a zesty lemon frosting that’s both refreshing and decadent. Perfect for celebrations or just a cozy family dessert, this cake is sure to become a favorite.

Sheet cakes are ideal for gatherings due to their ease of preparation and generous portions. This recipe embraces simple techniques while delivering bold flavors, making it approachable for any home cook. With a tender crumb and vibrant toppings, this cake brings a splash of summer to your dessert table, regardless of the season.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
All-purpose flour is the foundation of your cake, providing the structure and texture. Its moderate protein content helps to create a tender crumb while allowing the cake to rise properly.
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
Sugar not only adds sweetness but also contributes to the cake’s moisture and tenderness. It helps to achieve that desired fluffy texture and caramelizes when baked, enhancing the flavor.
1 tablespoon baking powder
Baking powder is the leavening agent that makes your cake rise. It reacts with moisture and heat, producing carbon dioxide bubbles, resulting in a light and airy structure.
½ teaspoon salt
Salt balances the sweetness of the sugar and enhances the flavors of the other ingredients. This small amount can significantly elevate the overall taste of your cake.
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
Butter provides richness and flavor, contributing to a moist cake. Softening the butter allows for easier incorporation into the batter, leading to a smoother texture.
1 cup buttermilk
Buttermilk adds moisture and acidity, which activates the baking powder for a better rise. It also helps to tenderize the cake, making it soft and delectable.
3 large eggs
Eggs not only bind the ingredients together but also provide structure and stability to the cake. They add richness and moisture, contributing to the overall flavor.
1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
Fresh strawberries infuse the cake with natural sweetness and flavor while adding moisture. Their vibrant color and texture make the cake visually appealing.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla extract is essential for flavor, enhancing the sweetness and adding depth to the overall taste profile of the cake.
4 cups powdered sugar
Powdered sugar is the main ingredient in the frosting, providing sweetness and creating that fluffy texture. It dissolves easily, making it ideal for smooth frostings.
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
The butter in the frosting adds creaminess and richness, balancing the sweetness of the powdered sugar. Softening it allows for easier mixing, ensuring a smooth frosting.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Fresh lemon juice adds a burst of citrus flavor, cutting through the sweetness of the frosting. It also provides the acidity needed for a balanced taste.
Zest of one lemon
Lemon zest enhances the frosting's flavor with its aromatic oils, making it bright and refreshing. The zest adds a nice texture, complementing the smoothness of the frosting.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch sheet pan.

Preheating the oven ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the start. Greasing the pan prevents the cake from sticking, allowing for easy removal once baked. It's a crucial first step, so make sure your oven is fully heated before the batter is ready.

Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt; whisk to blend.

Whisking together the dry ingredients ensures that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This step is essential for a consistent rise and flavor in your sheet cake, preventing any clumps of baking powder in the batter.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Creaming the butter and sugar incorporates air into the mixture, which helps the cake rise. The fluffy texture obtained at this stage is crucial for a light and airy cake. Aim for a pale, fluffy mixture that increases in volume.

Step 4: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Incorporating eggs individually allows for better emulsification, creating a smooth batter. This step ensures that each egg is properly blended, contributing to the overall structure and flavor of your cake.

Step 5: Alternate adding the dry mixture and buttermilk to the creamed butter, starting and ending with the flour mixture.

This alternating addition helps maintain the batter's texture, preventing over-mixing which can lead to a dense cake. The buttermilk adds moisture and acidity that helps in creating a tender crumb.

Step 6: Gently fold in the diced strawberries, being careful not to overwork the batter.

Gently folding in the strawberries ensures they are evenly distributed without crushing them. This step is crucial for retaining their texture and flavor in the final cake, offering delightful bursts of fresh fruit.

Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan and smooth the top.

Pouring and smoothing the batter evenly in the pan allows for even baking. Spread it gently with a spatula, ensuring the mixture reaches all corners for a uniform height and texture.

Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Baking the cake in the preheated oven allows for proper rising and browning. Checking with a toothpick is key; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is perfectly baked and ready to cool.

Step 9: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Cooling the cake completely prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a stable structure. Patience is vital here; a warm cake can ruin the frosting's consistency and appearance.

Step 10: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and fluffy.

Beating the butter before adding the sugar helps create a creamy base for the frosting. Gradually adding powdered sugar prevents clouding and allows for a smooth texture, while lemon juice and zest enhance the flavor profile.

Step 11: Spread the lemon frosting evenly over the cooled cake, then slice and serve.

Growing your frosting evenly over the cool cake not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also allows each slice to carry that delightful lemon flavor. This final step highlights your hard work and makes for a stunning dessert.

Strawberry Sheet Cake with Lemon Frosting step photo

Embracing Seasonal Strawberries

Utilizing fresh, ripe strawberries makes a notable difference in flavor and texture. When strawberries are in season, their sweetness and vibrant color enhance the cake, providing both visual appeal and a juicy burst in every bite. Take the time to select the freshest strawberries; they can be the star of your baking.

The Magic of Lemon in Cakes

Lemon is more than just a flavor; it transforms your dessert into a refreshing indulgence. The acidity of lemon juice cuts through the sweetness of the cake and frosting, making each bite harmonious. By incorporating both fresh juice and zest, you're ensuring layers of citrus flavor that elevate the overall dessert experience.

Why Sheet Cakes are Perfect for Gatherings

Sheet cakes provide a practical solution for serving a crowd without the complexities of layered cakes. Their wide, even surface allows for easy cutting and serving, making them a straightforward choice for parties or family gatherings. You'll be surprised at how quickly this delicious cake disappears when shared with loved ones.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the cake.

What should I do if my cake is too dense?

If your cake is dense, it may be due to over-mixing the batter. Be gentle when combining ingredients to prevent developing too much gluten.

Can I add more lemon flavor to the frosting?

Definitely! You can increase the amount of lemon juice and zest to enhance the lemon flavor in your frosting.

How can I ensure my cake is perfectly even?

Ensure that your oven is properly preheated and rotate the pan halfway through baking for even cooking. Also, check with a toothpick for doneness.

What can I do if my frosting is too thick?

If your frosting is too thick, simply add a bit more lemon juice or a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.

Can I replace buttermilk with regular milk?

Yes, but if you use regular milk, add a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic the acidity of buttermilk.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Sheet Cake with Lemon Frosting is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. With its fresh strawberries and zesty topping, it’s bound to impress your guests and family alike.

Whether it's for a special occasion or just a delightful mid-week dessert, this cake is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Embrace the flavors of summer in every bite and share the joy of baking with those you love.

Recipe Card