Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake

Name: Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 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; 3-4 cups powdered sugar; 2-4 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Rustic Sweet Bakes

I love making this Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party or just a cozy weekend treat. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; with just a few basic ingredients, I can create a delicious cake that thrills everyone. The aroma of vanilla fills the kitchen, making it hard to wait until it cools down for frosting. I usually serve it with a light buttercream or just a dusting of powdered sugar to let the rich flavors shine through.

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:33:36.085Z

When I first baked this Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake, I was amazed at how effortless it was to whip up. The key is to use room temperature ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, which help create a beautifully airy batter. I’ve also learned that slightly underbaking gives the cake a moist texture that keeps it fresh longer.

To ensure my cake is perfectly fluffy, I make sure to sift the dry ingredients together before combining them with the wet ones. This simple step prevents clumps and guarantees even distribution of the baking powder throughout the batter. It really makes a difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Light and fluffy texture that everyone loves
Versatile base for endless frosting options
Perfect for any occasion, from gatherings to treat-yourself moments

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a successful Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake lies in the quality of its ingredients. Using high-quality vanilla extract makes a significant difference in flavor, elevating the cake from ordinary to extraordinary. If you prefer a richer taste, consider using vanilla bean paste instead of extract. You can also swap out all-purpose flour for cake flour to achieve an even lighter texture, but be cautious with the measurements as cake flour may require a bit more moisture.

Butter plays a crucial role here; it not only adds richness but also contributes to the cake's tender crumb. Ensure your butter is properly softened—room temperature is ideal—for easy creaming with sugar. Keep an eye on the amount of sugar; reducing it slightly can create a less sweet cake that pairs beautifully with frosting or a fruit topping. Remember, exact measurements are essential in baking to get that perfect rise.

Frosting Tips and Variations

While this cake is delightful on its own, a frosting can add an extra touch. For the frosting, I recommend starting with a 1:3 butter-to-powdered sugar ratio; adjust the sugar to achieve your desired sweetness and thickness. For a lighter buttercream, adding a tablespoon or two of milk will help to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency. If you're feeling adventurous, you can incorporate flavors like almond extract or cocoa powder for a fun twist.

To change up the visual appeal, consider adding food coloring to your frosting. You can create marbled designs or layer different colors for a festive look. For a healthier twist, you might substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative or Greek yogurt, which will yield a tangy flavor and a lighter texture in the frosting.

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Frosting (optional)

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3-4 cups powdered sugar
2-4 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then mix in the milk and vanilla extract until combined.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 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 before transferring it to a wire rack. Frost as desired once cooled.

For an added touch, you can sprinkle some colorful sprinkles on top for fun!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different extracts to customize the flavor of your cake. Almond or lemon extract can add a delightful twist.

Baking and Cooling

Baking times can vary based on your oven or the pan's material, so start checking the cake at the lower end of the time range—around 23 minutes. Look for a golden color on top and gently press the surface to see if it springs back. If it sinks or leaves an indentation, it may need more time. Always use a toothpick test; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached once it's done.

Cooling is just as critical as baking. If you rush to frost a warm cake, the frosting can melt and slide off. Let the cake sit in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack; this prevents breakage. Once completely cool, you can store it covered at room temperature for a couple of days, but refrigerating will extend its freshness for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

This Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake can serve as a delightful base for various toppings. Consider adding fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing, seasonal twist. A drizzle of chocolate ganache complements the vanilla flavor wonderfully and can be made easily by melting chocolate with cream. For larger gatherings, you can cut the cake into fun shapes or use cookie cutters to create festive designs.

If you're in the mood for personalization, serve slices with different toppings on each, such as whipped cream, nuts, or edible flowers. Creating a ‘cake bar’ can be a fun activity at a gathering where guests can customize their slices to their taste. To save time during an event, you can bake the cake a day in advance and allow it to sit covered in the fridge overnight to let the flavors meld.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use unsweetened applesauce instead of butter?

Yes, unsweetened applesauce is a great substitute for butter in this recipe, although the texture may differ slightly.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ How do I make the frosting thicker?

If your frosting is too thin, simply add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

→ Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free version.