If you’re looking for a simple yet truly satisfying dessert, this vanilla sheet cake is the one. It’s soft, fluffy, and rich with buttery vanilla flavor—exactly what you want in a classic yellow cake. It bakes to a beautiful golden color with a moist, tender crumb and works perfectly with cream cheese frosting, buttercream, or even just a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups (355g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 1 tablespoon (11g) baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon (2g) salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) milk (full-fat or 2%), room temperature
Why You’ll Love This Cake
This cake is buttery, soft, and perfectly balanced in sweetness. It slices cleanly, holds frosting well, and stays moist for days. Whether for birthdays, brunch, or a simple homemade treat, it’s a reliable go-to recipe.
“It’s the kind of cake that tastes like home, comfort, and celebration in every bite.”
Pro Baking Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter and even rise
- Avoid overmixing after adding flour to keep the texture light
- Use a light-colored metal pan for even baking
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting
Instructions
1. Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
Beat butter and sugar for 3–4 minutes until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Mix in eggs one at a time. Add vanilla and combine well.
5. Combine Wet and Dry
On low speed, alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, ending with dry. Mix just until combined.
6. Prepare for Baking
Pour batter into the pan and spread evenly. Tap lightly to remove air bubbles.
7. Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool completely before frosting.
Optional Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
- 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 1/2 cups (300g) powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk (optional)
Instructions
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then beat until fluffy.
Spread over cooled cake.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, bake a day ahead and store covered at room temperature. Refrigerate if frosted.
Can I use buttermilk instead of milk?
Yes, substitute 1:1 for a slightly tangy flavor and softer texture.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, wrap the unfrosted cake tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
What frosting works best?
Cream cheese frosting, buttercream, chocolate frosting, or a simple glaze all work well.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes, you can use two 9-inch round pans or a larger sheet pan. Adjust baking time as needed.
