Lemon Blueberry Sheet Pan Dessert

There’s something about a sheet pan dessert that brings a sense of comfort and warmth. Perhaps it’s the simplicity of one-pan baking or the way it fills the home with delightful aromas. The Lemon Blueberry Sheet Pan Dessert is a delightful treat that embodies this comforting experience, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or just a cozy evening at home. It’s an easy dessert to prepare, allowing anyone, even novice bakers, to shine in the kitchen.

The magic of this dessert lies in its vibrant flavors and beautiful textures. The combination of fresh blueberries, zesty lemon, and the moist crumb from the buttermilk creates a delightful explosion of flavor. Using all-purpose flour gives it the perfect structure, while unsalted butter adds richness. Each bite is sweetened just right with granulated sugar, ensuring it’s not overly indulgent but heavenly. This dessert is a must-try for any lemon lover, as the lemon zest provides that bright flavor that complements the blueberries beautifully.

The preparation is a breeze, making this recipe approachable for everyone, including our beloved seniors. You simply preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Whisk the dry ingredients together, then mix the wet ingredients in a separate bowl. Combine the two mixtures, fold in those plump blueberries, pour it all onto the sheet pan, and let the oven do the magic. Just around 25-30 minutes later, you’ll have a lovely golden dessert ready for the finishing touch of powdered sugar.

This Lemon Blueberry Sheet Pan Dessert is perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or simply enjoying after a hearty meal. Its vibrant flavors can brighten any gathering, and its ease of preparation makes it a welcome addition to family celebrations or casual weekends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Blueberry Sheet Pan Dessert

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just over 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip this up without any fuss.
• Fruity and Sweet: The fresh blueberries and zesty lemon make a delightful pairing, suitable for all occasions.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares, it’s easy to serve and share with friends and family.
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy it warm or chilled, and it can be easily transported for gatherings.

Blueberry Tips

Selecting the best blueberries can elevate your Lemon Blueberry Sheet Pan Dessert. Look for berries that are firm, plump, and have a deep blue color. The stems should be green and fresh. Avoid any berries that appear mushy or have wrinkles, as they won’t provide the same burst of flavor. If possible, choose organic blueberries for the best taste and to avoid pesticides. Remember to give them a gentle rinse before you add them to your batter, ensuring they’re clean but be sure to dry them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

Options for Substitutions

• Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free version.
• Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a lower glycemic option.
• Replace buttermilk with plain yogurt or milk with a splash of vinegar for acidity.
• For a dairy-free option, swap unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
• Lemon juice can be a substitute for lemon zest if you have no fresh lemon on hand, but zest adds a better flavor.
• Fresh blueberries can be replaced with frozen blueberries; just ensure they are not thawed before mixing into the batter.

Watch Out for These Mistakes

While making this Lemon Blueberry Sheet Pan Dessert is straightforward, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid. First, ensure you are using fresh ingredients. Old baking powder or baking soda can lead to a dense and flat cake. Always check expiration dates for these leavening agents.

Another mistake is overmixing the batter once you combine wet and dry ingredients. This can lead to a tough dessert instead of a light, airy one. Stir just until everything is incorporated.

Don’t forget to line your sheet pan with parchment paper properly. This ensures the dessert comes out easily and prevents sticking. Lastly, keep an eye on the baking time. Every oven is different, so start checking for doneness at the 25-minute mark. Use a toothpick for testing; it should come out clean, and if it has wet batter on it, give it a few extra minutes.

What to Serve With Lemon Blueberry Sheet Pan Dessert?

This dessert pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you want something lighter, consider serving it with a side of lemon sorbet for a refreshing contrast. It also goes well with a cup of herbal tea or a light summer wine, making it a versatile choice for many occasions.

Storage Instructions

Store: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freeze: For longer storage, this dessert can be frozen for up to 3 months. Before freezing, cut into squares and place the pieces into a single layer in a freezer-safe container.

Reheat: To enjoy, you can reheat the squares in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 10 minutes.

Recipe Info

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Servings: Approximately 12 squares

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
Calories: 1,200-1,500
Protein: 20-25g
Fat: 40-50g
Carbohydrates: 180-200g

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups fresh blueberries
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prep Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, line a sheet pan with parchment paper, ensuring it covers the entire bottom for easy removal later.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps to ensure all the dry ingredients are well distributed and will provide a light texture.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined. The melted butter should be warm but not hot, to prevent cooking the eggs.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir the combination until just combined, being cautious not to overmix. The batter may have some lumps, which is perfectly okay.

Step 5: Fold in Blueberries

Carefully fold in the fresh blueberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter without crushing them.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the finished batter onto your prepared sheet pan and spread it evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean when done.

Step 7: Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar

Once the dessert is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack. If you like, once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar before slicing it into squares to serve.

Conclusion

The Lemon Blueberry Sheet Pan Dessert is not only an easy and delicious treat, but it also brings friends and family together for sweet moments. With its bright flavors and soft texture, it’s a recipe that is sure to impress. I invite you to try this delightful dessert, share your thoughts, and explore more homemade recipes to discover the joys of cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this dessert a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and dust with powdered sugar just before serving for the best presentation.

Can I use different fruits?

Absolutely! You can try other berries like raspberries or strawberries, or even diced peaches in place of blueberries for a different flavor profile.

Is this dessert suitable for freezing?

Yes, this dessert freezes well. Make sure it’s completely cooled before wrapping and storing it in an airtight container. Enjoy it within three months for optimal freshness.

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