Simple Vanilla Sheet Cake (Printable Version)

Moist vanilla sheet topped with smooth buttercream and delicate piped flowers, ideal for celebrations.

# What You'll Need:

→ Sheet Cake

01 - 2½ cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2½ teaspoons baking powder
03 - ½ teaspoon salt
04 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 2 cups granulated sugar
06 - 4 large eggs, room temperature
07 - 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
08 - 1 cup whole milk, room temperature

→ Buttercream Frosting

09 - 1½ cups unsalted butter, softened
10 - 6 cups powdered sugar, sifted
11 - ¼ cup whole milk
12 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
13 - Food coloring in pink, yellow, and green

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan and line with parchment paper.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
03 - In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 3 minutes.
04 - Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract until combined.
05 - Add the flour mixture in three additions, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
06 - Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula, ensuring even distribution.
07 - Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
08 - Let cake cool in pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
09 - Beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, alternating with milk, beating until smooth and fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract.
10 - Divide buttercream into separate bowls and tint portions with food coloring for flowers and leaves as desired.
11 - Spread a generous layer of plain buttercream over the cooled cake to create an even base.
12 - Fill piping bags with colored buttercream using flower and leaf tips. Pipe flowers and leaves decoratively across the cake, focusing on corners and edges for a classic presentation.
13 - Using a small round piping tip, add a cross or First Communion text to the cake if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Tender, classic vanilla flavor that appeals to all ages.
  • Decorated with delicate buttercream flowers for a charming, elegant look.
  • Moist texture that holds up well for parties or special occasions.
  • Medium difficulty makes it approachable for bakers wanting a decorative challenge.
02 -
  • Use parchment paper to easily release the cake from the pan and ensure clean edges.
  • Beat butter and sugar well for a fluffy crumb and tender cake texture.
  • Divide buttercream and tint with gel food coloring for vivid, non-runny decorations.
  • Pipe flowers and leaves in clusters on corners or edges for a classic and elegant finish.
  • Make the cake a day ahead to allow flavors to meld and ease decorating on the day of the event.
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