Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 320
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
Why Make This Birthday Sheet Cake
This Birthday Sheet Cake is a delightful celebration staple, ideal for parties of any size. It’s simple, fun, and oh-so-delicious. The moist cake pairs beautifully with your favorite frosting, making it a treat everyone will celebrate. Whether you’re hosting a big birthday bash or an intimate gathering, this cake’s generous size ensures there’s enough for everyone, and it can be easily customized with flavors and decorations to match your theme.
How to Make Birthday Sheet Cake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Frosting of your choice
- Sprinkles (optional)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a sheet cake pan to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which typically takes about 3-5 minutes. This is critical for achieving a light texture in the cake.
Step 3: Cooking
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate them fully. Stir in the vanilla extract, giving the mixture an inviting aroma. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to combine the dry ingredients. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Finishing
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, frost with your favorite frosting and add sprinkles on top if desired for a festive touch.
How to Serve Birthday Sheet Cake
Serve this delightful sheet cake at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. Cut into squares and arrange them on a platter. Consider pairing each slice with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch. It’s a perfect addition to any birthday celebration!
How to Store Birthday Sheet Cake
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Birthday Sheet Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to avoid a dense cake.
- Frosting Consistency: If you find your frosting too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it.
- Flavor Variations: Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a twist, or add lemon zest for a fresh flavor.
- Even Baking: Rotate the cake halfway through baking for even cooking, especially if your oven has hot spots.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Birthday Sheet Cake: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor.
- Fruit-Filled Sheet Cake: Add a layer of fresh berries or sliced fruit between the cake and frosting for a fruity surprise.
- Lemon Sheet Cake: Replace some milk with lemon juice and add lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus twist.
- Funfetti Cake: Stir in sprinkles directly into the batter for a colorful, festive look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use cake mix instead of making the batter from scratch?
Yes, you can use a boxed cake mix! Just follow the instructions on the box and bake according to the time provided.
How can I make the cake gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour to make it gluten-free.
Can I freeze the cake after it’s been frosted?
It’s best to freeze the unfrosted cake. However, if the frosting is buttercream, you can freeze the frosted cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap.
What type of frosting works best?
Buttercream frosting is a classic favorite, but cream cheese frosting, whipped cream, or ganache also work wonderfully.
How can I ensure my cake is moist?
Make sure to not overmix the batter and add the correct amount of fat, like butter, which contributes to moisture.
Conclusion
This Birthday Sheet Cake is not only simple to make, but it’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any celebration. Its fluffy texture and customizable frosting make it perfect for birthdays of all ages. Whether you stick to the classic flavors or try one of our suggested variations, you’re bound to impress with this delightful treat. So gather your ingredients, and let’s bake a birthday cake that everyone will love! Happy baking!
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Birthday Sheet Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful sheet cake ideal for birthday celebrations, customizable with your favorite frosting and decorations.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Frosting of your choice
- Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a sheet cake pan.
- Cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Frost with your favorite frosting and add sprinkles if desired.
Notes
Serve at room temperature for the best flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
