A tender, fluffy, and lightly sweet white sheet cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with your favorite frosting, this cake is a timeless classic that everyone will adore.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake is beautifully simple, incredibly versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. With a moist crumb and delicate vanilla aroma, it’s ideal for birthdays, afternoon coffee, or casual gatherings. The straightforward preparation means you can whip it up any day without fuss.
Simple & Easy White Sheet Cake
There’s something truly special about a white sheet cake. It brings to mind celebrations from years past, family kitchens filled with the scent of baking, and that comforting first bite that feels like home. This cake doesn’t need layers or elaborate decorations to impress—it stands proudly in its simplicity.
When you bake a white sheet cake, you’re not just making dessert—you’re creating a centerpiece for shared moments. The scent of vanilla drifting from the oven can instantly take you back to childhood afternoons where dessert was eagerly awaited.
Its charm lies in its versatility. You can keep it as pure and unadorned as the recipe intends, or dress it up with buttercream, whipped cream, or fresh fruit. The soft crumb welcomes any pairing.
The beauty of this cake is that it can be made ahead and still taste as fresh as the day it’s baked. In fact, a short rest can deepen the flavor and make slicing even easier.
Baking this cake also invites creativity. Swap the vanilla for almond or citrus extracts, or fold in a handful of berries for a delightful twist without losing the original charm.
For many, this cake is part of treasured family recipes—passed down, scribbled on worn index cards, and remembered with a smile. Every bite carries a sense of nostalgia.
It’s the kind of cake that fits seamlessly into any setting, from an elegant brunch to a school bake sale. Its adaptability is one of its greatest strengths.
You’ll love how straightforward the process is. A handful of pantry staples, a mixing bowl, and a little time are all you need to create something truly special.
The batter comes together in minutes, and the baking process fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that hints at the deliciousness to come.
The texture is light yet satisfying, making it perfect for pairing with tea, coffee, or a tall glass of cold milk.
And because it’s baked in a simple square pan, serving is a breeze—just cut into neat squares and enjoy.
Once you’ve made it, you may find it becoming your go-to cake for any and every occasion.
Best of all, this recipe is forgiving, making it a great choice for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike.
Servings
Serves 9–12
Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–40 minutes
Total Time: 40–50 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 ¾ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup white sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk, room temperature
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch square cake pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with the dry mixture.
- Mix just until batter is smooth.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the top springs back when lightly touched and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely in the pan before slicing.
Tips
- For an extra-moist cake, replace half the milk with sour cream.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish, or frost with your favorite icing.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Simple & Easy White Sheet Cake
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 1 ¾ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup white sugar
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk room temperature
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch square cake pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with the dry mixture.
- Mix just until batter is smooth.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the top springs back when lightly touched and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely in the pan before slicing.
Notes
- For an extra-moist cake, replace half the milk with sour cream.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish, or frost with your favorite icing.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
