Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake

Name: Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Whisked & Baked

I recently whipped up a Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake that turned out to be a hit at our gathering. The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward method, allowing even novice bakers to achieve bakery-quality results. The cake is delightfully moist with a rich vanilla flavor that everyone loves. Plus, it's perfect for customizing with different frostings or fresh fruits. I can’t wait to share how easy it is to bring this delightful dessert to life in your kitchen!

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-02-01T23:45:35.771Z

When I decided to make our gathering a little sweeter, I reached for my favorite Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake recipe. It’s become a go-to in my kitchen because of its simplicity and amazing flavor. I love how the aroma of vanilla fills the house while it bakes, creating an inviting atmosphere.

Using quality vanilla extract really elevates this cake, making every bite a delight. I also learned that baking it in a flat sheet pan ensures even cooking, which is crucial for achieving that perfect moist texture. Trust me, your guests will be asking for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Versatile base for all kinds of flavors and toppings
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake plays a crucial role in achieving its delightful texture and flavor. The combination of all-purpose flour and baking powder creates a tender crumb while providing enough stability to support the frosting. If you prefer a lighter cake, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with cake flour. The unsalted butter not only adds richness but also moisture; ensure it's softened to room temperature for easy blending with sugar.

The choice of vanilla extract is important for elevating the cake's flavor profile. I recommend using pure vanilla extract instead of imitation, as it provides a deeper, more nuanced taste. If you're looking for a fun twist, consider adding almond extract or even citrus zest for a unique flavor combination. The sugar in the recipe contributes sweetness while also helping to create that fluffy texture—make sure to cream it well with the butter until it becomes light and airy.

Frosting Tips for Success

Creating the perfect frosting is essential for transforming your sheet cake into a showstopper. When beating together the softened butter and powdered sugar, start on a low speed to avoid a sugar cloud, then gradually increase to medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial; if you overbeat, you risk introducing too much air, which can lead to a fluffy instead of a spreadable consistency.

If your frosting is too thick, add the milk in small increments until you reach your desired spreadability. Conversely, if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar. For added flavor, consider incorporating a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness or experimenting with different extracts or flavorings. Just remember to mix thoroughly after any additions, ensuring a uniform flavor throughout.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make this delicious cake:

Cake Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

Frosting Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to bake!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your vanilla cake:

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 13x18-inch baking sheet.

Mix the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, cream 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. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk until well combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.

Prepare the Frosting

While the cake cools, beat the softened butter in a bowl. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until smooth. Stir in milk and vanilla extract until you reach your desired consistency.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. You can add sprinkles or fresh fruits as a topping if desired.

Now that your cake is frosted, it's time to slice and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding lemon zest or almond extract to the batter. This gives a unique twist to the classic vanilla taste.

Cake Cooling and Storage

Allowing the cake to cool completely in the pan is vital for achieving the perfect texture. If you try to frost it too soon, it could disrupt the frosting's integrity and lead to a melty mess. Once cooled, you can store the cake in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing the unfrosted cake for up to three months; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.

If you want to serve the cake straight from the freezer, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours. Frosting can also be made in advance. Just ensure that you re-whip it shortly before use to restore its creaminess and spreadability. This way, you can save time on the day of serving.

Serving and Customizing Your Cake

This versatile vanilla sheet cake can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it plain for a simple treat or garnish it with fresh berries for a summer-inspired dessert. If you want to elevate it further, consider drizzling it with a caramel or chocolate sauce, or layering it with whipped cream for added indulgence. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top can also provide a lovely finishing touch.

For a seasonal spin, try incorporating flavors like pumpkin spice or chocolate chips into the batter. If you're making it for a special celebration or themed event, customizing the frosting color and adding themed decorations can turn this simple cake into a centerpiece. The possibilities are endless, making it an excellent base for any occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with cake flour for a lighter texture.

→ How do I store the leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Freeze the unfrosted cake in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting.

→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?

Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to the batter for additional flavor and texture.