Description
A tender, golden vanilla sheet cake with a soft crumb and warm, aromatic flavor, baked in a 9×13 pan and perfect for any celebration.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and, if desired, line the bottom with parchment for easy release.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: With the mixer on low, add the dry ingredients in two additions alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, mixing just until smooth.
- Assemble the Dish: Scrape the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula so it bakes evenly.
- Cook to Perfection: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top springs back lightly to the touch.
- Finishing Touches: Place the pan on a wire rack and let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting or slicing.
- Serve and Enjoy: Cut into 12 squares and serve as is or with your favorite frosting, whipped cream, or fresh berries.
Notes
- Note: For a lighter crumb, substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with cake flour.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth, well-emulsified batter.
- Do not overmix after adding the flour to keep the crumb tender.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: vanilla sheet cake, easy vanilla cake, 9x13 cake, party cake, classic vanilla, unfrosted cake, beginner baking