Simple Sheet Cake Recipes You Must Try

When it comes to baking, sheet cakes are the epitome of simplicity and versatility. These cakes are perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations. They require minimal equipment and ingredients, making them a go-to for both novice and experienced bakers. Here are a few simple sheet cake recipes you must try.

1. Classic Vanilla Sheet Cake

Ingredients:

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

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Frosting:

For a simple vanilla frosting, beat together 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 4 cups powdered sugar, 1/4 cup milk, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. Spread evenly over the cooled cake.

2. Chocolate Sheet Cake

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, water, and cocoa powder. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, and then remove from heat.
4. Pour the hot cocoa mixture over the flour mixture and stir to combine.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Add to the batter and mix until smooth.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Frosting:

For a rich chocolate frosting, beat together 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 3 cups powdered sugar, 1/4 cup milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Spread over the cooled cake.

3. Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries, tossed in 1 tablespoon flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined. Gently fold in the blueberries.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Frosting:

For a tangy lemon glaze, whisk together 2 cups powdered sugar and 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.

Conclusion

These simple sheet cake recipes are perfect for any baker looking to create delicious and impressive desserts with minimal effort. Whether you prefer classic vanilla, rich chocolate, or a refreshing lemon blueberry combination, there’s a sheet cake recipe here that will delight your taste buds and wow your guests. Happy baking!