A Classic Vanilla Sheet Cake is a timeless dessert that’s light, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to casual get-togethers. The best part? It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser! Here’s a simple recipe for a soft and delicious vanilla sheet cake.
Classic Vanilla Sheet Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp whole milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Make the cake batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. Then, remove the cake from the pan and let it cool completely on the wire rack.
- Make the frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add the milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until smooth and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
- Frost the cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top with a spatula. Decorate with sprinkles, fresh fruit, or anything you like!
Tips:
- You can make this cake ahead of time and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for longer, keep it in the fridge for up to a week.
- If you’d like a more decadent cake, feel free to add a layer of jam or fresh fruit between the cake and frosting.
Enjoy your classic vanilla sheet cake—it’s soft, sweet, and perfect for any occasion!