Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake

Name: Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 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 eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Favorites

I love baking this Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake whenever I need a quick and delightful dessert. It's incredibly easy to whip up, and the flavors are simply divine. The buttery vanilla essence shines through in every bite, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether I'm serving it at a family gathering or just treating myself on a quiet afternoon, this cake never fails to impress. It’s a versatile recipe that can be dressed up with frosting or enjoyed plain, leaving me with endless possibilities for toppings and flavors.

Created by

Lauren Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:14:35.913Z

When I first decided to try my hand at baking a sheet cake, I was intimidated by the prospect of making it from scratch. However, this Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake proved to be a game-changer. The method I use combines the creaming of butter and sugar, which creates a fluffy batter that results in a light and airy cake. I remember the first time I took it out of the oven – the aroma filled my kitchen with nostalgia, reminding me of my grandmother's baking.

A little tip I learned along the way is to let the cake cool completely before frosting it. This ensures that the frosting doesn't melt and preserves that beautiful, smooth finish that makes it presentation-worthy. Whether you're a beginner or looking to hone your baking skills, this cake is a must-try!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Simple ingredients you probably already have on hand
A fluffy and moist cake that pairs perfectly with any frosting
Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or just a cozy day at home

Understanding Your Ingredients

The key to a successful vanilla sheet cake lies in the quality of your ingredients. For instance, using high-quality pure vanilla extract instead of imitation can significantly enhance the cake's flavor profile, giving it that rich, aromatic sweetness that elevates every bite. Additionally, ensure your butter is at room temperature; this allows it to cream more effectively with the sugar, creating that light and fluffy texture that is so desirable.

Incorporating room temperature eggs also plays a critical role. Cold eggs can shock the mixture, affecting the cake's rise and texture. To bring eggs to room temperature quickly, simply place them in a bowl of warm water for about 10 minutes before mixing. This small but important step will help achieve the perfect airy structure, ensuring a tender crumb in your final cake.

Baking Tips for Perfection

When pouring the batter into the baking sheet, try to spread it evenly to promote uniform baking. A thin layer in the center can lead to a discrepancy in bake time leading to potential undercooking. Use an offset spatula to smooth the surface if needed. Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes; every oven is different, and while the bake time is generally 25-30 minutes, visual cues like a golden-brown top and a toothpick coming out clean are your best indicators of doneness.

Once your cake is done baking, resist the urge to dive right in. Allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes—this helps it release from the edges and prevents sticking. After transferring it to a wire rack, let it cool completely before frosting. This ensures that any frosting applied will not melt, preserving both the appearance and structure of your delightful cake.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

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

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

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

Mix the 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 milk and vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, blending until just combined.

Bake the Cake

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

Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Frost if desired and serve!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding chocolate chips or citrus zest to the batter. You can also experiment with different frostings or serve it with fresh fruit for a refreshing touch.

Serving Suggestions

While this vanilla sheet cake is delicious on its own, consider dressing it up for special occasions. A simple buttercream or cream cheese frosting can add a layer of sweetness and enhance the cake's flavors. For a unique twist, try adding zest from citrus fruits or spices like nutmeg or cinnamon to the frosting, creating a delightful contrast with the cake's buttery notes.

If you prefer a lighter option, serve slices with fresh whipped cream and seasonal berries. The natural tartness of the berries pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cake, balancing the flavors perfectly for a refreshing dessert experience.

Storing and Freezing

This vanilla sheet cake is perfect for make-ahead desserts. Once it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the cake. Cut it into individual slices, wrap them well, and place them in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months—simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight when you're ready to enjoy it again.

When reheating, place the slices in a warm oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, just until warmed through. This will revive the cake's moisture and make it feel freshly baked, ready for serving with your favorite toppings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use cake flour for a lighter texture, but you may need to adjust the amount slightly.

→ How should I store the leftover cake?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to freeze for up to three months.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as an egg substitute if needed.