Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake

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

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Recipes

I recently decided to try my hand at baking a Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake, and it turned out to be a delightful experience! The soft and fluffy texture combined with the rich vanilla essence made it a hit for both my family and friends. I love how uncomplicated the recipe is, allowing me to whip it up quickly for celebrations or just a cozy dessert at home. With a few basic ingredients, I was amazed at how such a simple cake could be so satisfying and enjoyable!

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:53:35.651Z

Baking this Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake was a refreshing break from my usual dessert routine. I experimented with different ratios of vanilla extract, ultimately finding that just the right amount enhanced the flavor beautifully without overpowering the cake's delicate sweetness. It was exciting to see it rise perfectly in the oven, creating a golden-brown crust that was simply irresistible.

What I found particularly enjoyable was decorating the cake. I used a light vanilla frosting made from scratch, which added a creamy richness that complemented the cake's texture. This combination was a real crowd-pleaser at our last get-together, and I can't wait to make it again for the next gathering!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fluffy texture that is moist and delicious
Rich vanilla flavor that elevates any celebration
Simple preparation that's perfect for beginner bakers

Perfecting Your Vanilla Cake Batter

One of the key components of a successful vanilla sheet cake is the batter's texture. When creaming the butter and sugar, aim for a light and airy consistency—this usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes using an electric mixer. If you're mixing by hand, make sure to vigorously whip the ingredients for a similar period. The fluffy batter will incorporate more air, making the final cake rise beautifully and maintain a moist, tender crumb.

When incorporating the dry ingredients, be mindful not to overmix the batter. Mix just until combined and smooth, and you should see a few small lumps remaining. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a dense cake. A spatula is my tool of choice for folding in the dry ingredients with the wet as it allows for greater control and prevents overmixing.

Frosting Variations and Techniques

The frosting is the crown jewel of any sheet cake, and for this recipe, a simple vanilla buttercream is both easy and delightful. To achieve the perfect consistency, ensure your butter is soft but not melted. You can mix in heavy cream instead of milk for an ultra-creamy texture, which also makes the frosting easier to spread and gives it a luxurious feel. If you're looking for flavor variations, consider adding a touch of almond extract or citrus zest for a refreshing twist.

For a more professional appearance, I recommend chilling the frosted cake briefly before slicing. This helps the frosting set and can prevent it from smudging when cutting. Additionally, try to spread the frosting in an even layer and use an offset spatula for clean edges. If you find that your frosting is too thick, gradually add more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired spreadability.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started on your Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake:

Cake Ingredients

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

Frosting Ingredients

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

Make sure you have everything measured out before you start baking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious vanilla sheet cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 12x17 inch baking sheet.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Cream Butter and Sugar

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

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine with Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until smooth.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly. 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, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Enjoy your beautifully baked Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding lemon zest or almond extract to the batter for a unique flavor twist.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this vanilla sheet cake dairy-free, you can substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan butter. For the milk, almond milk or oat milk work beautifully. Additionally, if you're out of eggs, you can use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg replacer: simply combine 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg, then let it sit until it thickens before adding it to your batter.

To reduce sugar in your recipe while still maintaining texture, consider using unsweetened applesauce. Replace 1 cup of sugar with 1 cup of applesauce, but you may want to reduce the milk slightly to maintain the right batter consistency. Keep in mind that this substitution will alter the flavor slightly, giving it a hint of fruitiness.

Storing and Serving Tips

After cooling, this vanilla sheet cake can be stored at room temperature for up to three days, covered with plastic wrap or kept in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag. It’s best consumed within three months for optimal flavor and texture, but thawing at room temperature can restore its lovely moisture.

When ready to serve, consider topping the vanilla sheet cake with fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries for added color and flavor. A light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate ganache can also elevate the cake for special occasions. This way, you not only enhance texture and taste, but also the visual appeal of this already delightful dessert!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but texture may vary.

→ How can I store the cake?

Keep it covered at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container for up to three months.

→ What can I add to the frosting?

Feel free to add cocoa powder for chocolate frosting or fresh fruit for flavor variations!