Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake

Name: Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 2 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet & Baked

I absolutely love baking, and there's nothing quite like a warm slice of simple vanilla sheet cake fresh out of the oven. The aroma of vanilla fills my kitchen, making it feel cozy and inviting. This easy recipe allows me to whip up a delightful dessert whenever I'm craving something sweet. With a buttery texture and a hint of vanilla, this cake is not only simple to make but also incredibly versatile. I often serve it with fresh fruits or a dusting of powdered sugar, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:45:38.361Z

Every time I make this simple vanilla sheet cake, I’m reminded of sunny afternoons spent baking with my family. The recipe itself is straightforward, which is why I love it so much. I always make sure to sift the flour for a lighter cake texture, and I use high-quality vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. These little details elevate the cake and make it a favorite at gatherings.

What I find particularly rewarding about this cake is how well it holds up under various toppings. Whether it’s ganache, whipped cream, or fresh berries, each addition transforms it into something unique. I often experiment with different flavors, like almond or lemon zest, to switch things up. The options are endless, and the results never disappoint!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delicate vanilla flavor that’s not overpowering
Perfectly moist texture that stays fresh for days
A crowd-pleaser that's easy to make for any occasion

Essential Techniques for a Flawless Cake

Achieving the perfect vanilla sheet cake begins with proper mixing techniques. When creaming the butter and sugar, aim for a light and fluffy consistency, which typically takes about 3-5 minutes of mixing. This aeration is crucial as it helps create the light texture that your cake will have. Remember to use room temperature butter to facilitate this process, as cold butter won’t cream as well and can lead to a denser cake.

Once you’ve combined your wet and dry ingredients, it's important to mix gently. Over mixing can incorporate too much air and develop gluten, which could result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined, and don’t worry if there are a few lumps; they will bake out. Checking your batter for a smooth consistency at this stage is key, and you can use a rubber spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl for a thorough mix.

Ingredient Insights

The role of fresh, high-quality ingredients cannot be overstated in baking. In this recipe, granulated sugar not only sweetens but also contributes to the texture of the cake by helping to tenderize the batter. For the best results, opt for a fine granulated sugar that dissolves easily during the creaming process, leading to a lighter cake. You can even substitute part of the sugar with brown sugar for a subtle caramel flavor.

Using whole eggs instead of just egg whites adds richness and a wonderful moisture to your cake. If you need a substitute for eggs, consider using unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture – just remember that this may change the cake's flavor slightly. Also, ensure your baking powder is fresh; an expired baking powder can lead to a dense and flat cake.

Serving and Storing Your Cake

This simple vanilla sheet cake is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. While a classic frosting brings an indulgent touch, consider experimenting with fresh fruit toppings such as strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast. A light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk can also be a simple yet delightful finish. If you're feeling adventurous, add citrus zest like lemon or orange to the frosting for an extra flavor layer.

When it comes to storage, let your cake cool completely before covering it to avoid sogginess. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours or microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a freshly baked taste.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your simple vanilla sheet cake:

Cake Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
2 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp salt

Frosting Ingredients (optional)

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your simple vanilla sheet cake:

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and milk.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine All Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over mix.

Bake the Cake

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

Cool and Frost

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, prepare the frosting and spread it evenly over the cooled cake.

Once frosted, slice and serve! Enjoy your delicious simple vanilla sheet cake.

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, add citrus zest or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

Sometimes, cakes can dome or crack during baking. If you notice your cake has risen unevenly, it may be due to an incorrect oven temperature. Always use an oven thermometer to check that your oven runs true to temperature. If your cake cracks, try reducing the oven temperature slightly for future batches, as a high heat can cause rapid rising.

If your cake ends up being too dry, it could be due to overbaking. Start checking for doneness around the 25-minute mark by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean but not dry. Adjusting baking times to your specific oven is essential as temperatures can vary significantly between appliances.

Scaling the Recipe

This vanilla sheet cake recipe is easily scalable. If you wish to make a smaller cake, you can halve the ingredients and use an 8x8 inch baking pan. For larger gatherings, doubling the recipe works well; just ensure you have a larger pan, like a 12x18 inch sheet to accommodate the increased batter. Be aware that baking time may need to be adjusted, with larger cakes requiring an additional 5-10 minutes in the oven.

When scaling up, it’s also a good idea to ensure you have enough space in your mixer, especially if using a stand mixer. Batches that exceed the capacity can lead to uneven mixing and inconsistent results, so consider mixing in smaller increments if necessary.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in a 1:1 ratio.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ What can I use instead of butter?

You can use vegetable oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for a similar effect.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes! After cooling, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.