This vanilla sheet cake recipe is the ultimate classic dessert. Soft, fluffy, and perfectly sweet, it’s the kind of cake that works for birthdays, holidays, school events, or simple family dinners. Baked in one pan and easy to frost, this cake delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
If you’re looking for a reliable, from-scratch vanilla sheet cake recipe that stays moist and tender every time, you’ve found it. No complicated layers. No advanced decorating skills needed. Just pure vanilla goodness in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Vanilla Sheet Cake
This recipe is a favorite because it:
- Uses simple pantry ingredients
- Bakes in one 9×13-inch pan
- Has a soft, fluffy crumb
- Pairs well with any frosting
- Is beginner-friendly
- Serves a crowd easily
It’s versatile enough for elegant celebrations or casual gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Vanilla Sheet Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk (room temperature)
- ½ cup sour cream (adds moisture)
For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3–4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
This step is crucial for a soft texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs & Vanilla
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients & Milk
Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk:
- Add 1/3 of dry mixture
- Add ½ milk
- Repeat
Mix just until combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in sour cream gently.
Step 6: Bake
Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool completely before frosting.
How to Make Vanilla Buttercream
- Beat butter until creamy.
- Add powdered sugar gradually.
- Add vanilla extract and salt.
- Add cream slowly until desired consistency is reached.
- Beat until smooth and fluffy.
Spread evenly over cooled cake.
Why This Vanilla Sheet Cake Is So Moist
The secret is the combination of:
- Sour cream
- Proper creaming of butter and sugar
- Room temperature ingredients
- Not overbaking
These small details create a soft, tender crumb.
Decorating Ideas for Vanilla Sheet Cake 🎉
Vanilla sheet cake is like a blank canvas.
Easy decoration ideas:
✔ Fresh strawberries or raspberries
✔ Rainbow sprinkles
✔ Piped buttercream borders
✔ Chocolate drizzle
✔ Edible flowers
Because the cake surface is flat, decorating is simple and beginner-friendly.
Flavor Variations
You can easily customize this vanilla sheet cake recipe.
Try adding:
- Almond extract (½ teaspoon)
- Lemon zest
- Coconut flakes
- Mini chocolate chips
- Confetti sprinkles (for funfetti style)
The base is versatile and adaptable.
When to Serve Vanilla Sheet Cake
This cake works perfectly for:
- Birthday parties
- Baby showers
- Graduation celebrations
- Church events
- Office gatherings
- Family dinners
It slices neatly into squares, making serving quick and easy.
Storage & Freezing Tips
Room Temperature:
Store covered for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator:
Up to 5 days (bring to room temperature before serving).
Freezer:
Freeze unfrosted cake tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.
Sheet cakes are excellent make-ahead desserts.
Why Sheet Cakes Are So Practical
Unlike layered cakes, sheet cakes:
- Require no stacking
- Are easier to transport
- Bake evenly
- Serve large groups
- Are less intimidating for beginners
They’re practical and beautiful at the same time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these for perfect results:
❌ Overmixing the batter
❌ Using cold ingredients
❌ Overbaking
❌ Skipping proper greasing
❌ Frosting before cake is fully cooled
Small details make a big difference.
Final Thoughts 🎂✨
This vanilla sheet cake recipe is simple, reliable, and incredibly delicious. It’s soft, fluffy, and versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you decorate it simply or dress it up for a special event, it always delivers classic vanilla flavor in every bite.
If you want a stress-free cake that looks beautiful and tastes amazing, this vanilla sheet cake recipe is one you’ll make again and again.
