Vanilla Sheet Cake

When it comes to baked goods that evoke pure joy, a classic Vanilla Sheet Cake stands at the top of the list. This cake is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any occasion—from birthday parties to casual gatherings. The delightful aroma of vanilla wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into the world of this delicious Vanilla Sheet Cake, where simplicity meets flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Vanilla Sheet Cake is incredibly moist, fluffy, and flavorful, thanks to its rich blend of ingredients. Unlike other cakes that may require complicated techniques or special pans, this recipe is straightforward and yields a stunning cake with minimal effort. The cake’s rich vanilla flavor paired with a creamy buttercream frosting makes it irresistible, while the sheet cake format allows for easy slicing and serving. Plus, it’s perfect for both novice bakers and experienced pros!

What to Buy

• All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups (350 grams), for a light and fluffy texture.
• Baking Powder: 3 teaspoons (12 grams), to ensure the cake rises perfectly.
• Kosher Salt: ½ teaspoon, to enhance the flavors.
• Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (170 grams), room temperature, for richness.
• Granulated Sugar: 1 cup (350 grams), for sweetness.
• Vegetable Oil: ½ cup (50 grams), for added moisture.
• Large Eggs: 4 (200 grams), room temperature, for structure.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: 1 tablespoon (12 grams), for that signature flavor.
• Milk: 1 cup (227 grams), room temperature, to keep the batter smooth.
• Powdered Sugar: 5 cups (600 grams), for the frosting.
• Unsalted Butter: 1 ½ cups (340 grams), slightly melted, for the frosting.
• Heavy Cream: 3-4 tablespoons (43-57 grams), for a creamy frosting texture.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons (8 grams), for frosting.

Recommended Tools

• Mixing Bowls: A set of various sizes will help with mixing ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key in baking.
• Whisk: For blending dry ingredients and mixing the batter efficiently.
• Baking Sheet: A 9×13 inch pan works best for this recipe.
• Spatula: Essential for spreading the frosting evenly on the cake.
• Cooling Rack: To cool the cake completely before frosting.

Vanilla Sheet Cake in Steps

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease a 9×13 inch baking sheet with butter or non-stick spray, and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt until combined.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, beat the room temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Oil and Eggs

Beat in the vegetable oil until well incorporated. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the pure vanilla extract.

Step 6: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Milk

Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix!

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Make the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the slightly melted unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low until combined. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then beat on high for 2-3 minutes until fluffy.

Step 10: Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. You can use a spatula to create swirls or keep it smooth.

Smart Substitutions

• Gluten-Free Flour: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Plant-Based Butter: Substitute for unsalted butter to make it dairy-free.
• Almond Milk: Use in place of regular milk for a nutty flavor.
• Agave Syrup: Replace granulated sugar with agave for a lower glycemic index.

Flavor Logic

The combination of butter and sugar creates a rich base that enhances the vanilla flavor. The addition of oil ensures moisture, while the eggs provide structure and stability. The balance of dry and wet ingredients creates a tender crumb, making each bite melt in your mouth. The frosting, with its creamy texture and additional vanilla, complements the cake perfectly, making every slice a delightful experience.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your Vanilla Sheet Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week, but be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best texture. You can also freeze the cake—just slice it and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay good for up to 3 months.

Popular Questions

Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use cake flour for an even lighter texture. Just remember to adjust the amount slightly, as cake flour is lighter than all-purpose flour.

How can I make this cake chocolate-flavored?

To make a chocolate version, replace ½ cup of the all-purpose flour with unsweetened cocoa powder. This will give you a rich chocolate flavor without compromising texture.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance. Just wrap it in plastic wrap once cooled to prevent it from drying out.

What can I use instead of heavy cream in the frosting?

You can substitute heavy cream with milk or a dairy-free alternative, although the texture may be slightly less creamy.

Let’s Eat

This Vanilla Sheet Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying a slice at home with a cup of coffee, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy every delightful bite of your Vanilla Sheet Cake!