Vanilla Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that brings joy to any gathering. Light, fluffy, and incredibly moist, this cake is perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or casual get-togethers. With its soft crumb and rich vanilla flavor, it’s a classic choice that never goes out of style. Whether you’re serving it plain or dressed up with frosting, this cake is sure to please your guests and become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Vanilla Sheet Cake

This Vanilla Sheet Cake is not just easy to make; it’s also versatile and delicious. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore it:

Perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to casual get-togethers.
Simple ingredients make it an Easy Vanilla Sheet Cake Recipe.
Moist and tender, ensuring a delightful bite every time.
Can be paired with various frostings like buttercream or whipped cream.
Ideal for large gatherings—slices easily for sharing.
Offers a delicious base for countless variations and flavors.
Works wonderfully as a Classic Vanilla Cake or a Vanilla Sponge Cake.
Fun to decorate, allowing you to get creative!

Ingredients for Vanilla Sheet Cake

Gather these items:

2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon fine salt
¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature
1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
3 cups (360g) powdered sugar, sifted
2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract (for frosting)
Pinch of salt (for frosting)

How to Make Vanilla Sheet Cake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed for 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix each addition just until combined to avoid overmixing.
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top into an even layer.
Step 7: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
Step 8: Allow the cake to cool fully in the pan on a wire rack before adding the frosting.
Step 9: In a large bowl, beat the butter for the frosting on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth and creamy.
Step 10: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well and scraping the bowl as needed.
Step 11: Add the vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and the heavy cream or milk. Beat on medium-high speed for 3 to 4 minutes until the frosting becomes light, fluffy, and spreadable.
Step 12: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Serve in slices and store leftovers covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Vanilla Sheet Cake

Keep these in mind:

Ideal for a 9×13 pan, making it easy to serve.
Works great with any frosting, especially Vanilla Sheet Cake with Buttercream Frosting.
Store leftovers at room temperature or in the refrigerator for freshness.
For added flavor, try using vanilla bean paste instead of extract.
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Best Ways to Serve Vanilla Sheet Cake

When serving this delightful cake, consider these ideas:

Top with colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
Serve with fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.

How to Store and Reheat Vanilla Sheet Cake

To store your cake, keep it covered at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. When ready to enjoy, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or reheat in the microwave for a few seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vanilla Sheet Cake

What’s the secret to perfect Vanilla Sheet Cake?

The key is to not overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients. This ensures a tender crumb, characteristic of a great Vanilla Cake.

Can I make Vanilla Sheet Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance. Just store it covered at room temperature until you’re ready to frost and serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Vanilla Sheet Cake?

Ensure your ingredients are fresh and at room temperature. Also, be careful not to overbake; check for doneness a few minutes early to keep it moist.

Variations of Vanilla Sheet Cake You Can Try

Switch things up with these variations:

Add lemon zest for a citrus twist.
Try a gluten-free Vanilla Sheet Cake recipe using almond flour.
Incorporate chocolate chips for a delightful surprise.
Top with a layer of fresh whipped cream and seasonal fruit for a light dessert.