Few desserts are as timeless and comforting as a Vanilla Sheet Cake. Soft, fluffy, and infused with rich vanilla flavor, this cake is the perfect all-occasion dessert. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, family gathering, potluck, or just craving a homemade treat, this recipe delivers bakery-quality results right from your kitchen. Best of all, it requires simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Unlike layer cakes that demand precision and extra effort, the sheet cake is wonderfully low-maintenance. It bakes evenly in a single pan, making it ideal for both beginner and seasoned bakers. One bite of this golden, moist cake and you’ll understand why it has remained a favorite for generations.
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Ingredients (and Why They Work)
2 cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of the cake, providing structure and tenderness.
1 cup sugar – Sweetens the batter while also helping to keep the crumb moist.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness, flavor, and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
2 large eggs – Bind the ingredients together and add richness and stability.
1 cup milk – Keeps the cake soft and moist while helping activate the baking powder.
2 tsp baking powder – The leavening agent that makes the cake rise and become fluffy.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor and brings out the warmth of the cake.
1/2 tsp salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cream butter and sugar – In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air for a lighter texture.
3. Add eggs – Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
4. Stir in vanilla – Mix in the vanilla extract for that warm, classic flavor.
5. Mix dry ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Combine wet and dry – Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Stir gently until just combined—avoid overmixing.
7. Bake – Pour the batter into the prepared dish and smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool – Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Why This Recipe Is Loved
Simple ingredients – Pantry staples make it easy and affordable.
Quick to prepare – Just 15 minutes of prep for a cake that tastes like it took hours.
Moist and fluffy – The perfect texture every time.
Versatile – Can be enjoyed plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with your favorite frosting.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Room temperature ingredients mix more evenly, giving you a smooth batter.
Do not overmix once you add the flour—this keeps the cake tender instead of dense.
Check early at 28 minutes to avoid overbaking. Every oven is different.
Cool before frosting – If you’re planning to add buttercream, glaze, or whipped cream, let the cake cool completely first.
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Serving Suggestions
This Vanilla Sheet Cake is delicious on its own, but here are a few ideas to elevate it:
With frosting – Top with classic vanilla buttercream, chocolate ganache, or cream cheese frosting.
Fruit topping – Serve with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or peaches and a dollop of whipped cream.
Ice cream pairing – A scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream makes it an indulgent dessert.
Elegant drizzle – Add a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for a quick finish.
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Final Thoughts
The beauty of this Vanilla Sheet Cake lies in its simplicity. With a soft crumb, buttery sweetness, and a rich hint of vanilla, it’s a cake that works for any occasion—from casual weeknight desserts to special celebrations. Quick to prepare, e
ndlessly versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your baking collection.
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