If you have a celebration coming up or simply want a comforting, classic dessert to brighten your day, this White Sheet Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Recipe is an absolute gem to have in your baking arsenal. It’s wonderfully light, moist, and delicate, yet sturdy enough to serve a crowd. The tender crumb of the cake paired with the creamy, sweet vanilla buttercream makes each bite feel like a warm hug. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying something new, this recipe delivers a crowd-pleasing, melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s hard to beat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various baking ingredients on a white marbled surface arranged neatly. There is a large clear glass bowl filled with white flour at the bottom left, and next to it on the right is another large clear glass bowl filled with granular white sugar. Above the flour is a smaller clear bowl with pale yellow egg whites, and above the sugar is a glass measuring cup with white milk. Near the center top are two small clear bowls, one holding white cornstarch and the other containing salt. At the bottom left corner, a tiny clear bowl contains dark brown vanilla extract, while next to it is another small bowl with white baking powder. On the bottom right are two sticks of pale yellow butter placed one on top of another. Each ingredient is labeled with bold black text in white boxes above them. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t let the simplicity of the ingredient list fool you; each item plays an essential role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and appearance of this cake. From the tender crumb to the smooth sweetness of the frosting, every bite is an elevated experience thanks to these straightforward ingredients.

All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and foundation for a tender yet sturdy cake crumb.
Cornstarch: Lightens the flour to ensure that soft, delicate texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a beautiful golden crust.
Baking powder: Leavens the cake, making it rise just right.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
Unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and moisture for that luxurious bite.
Whole milk (room temperature): Moisturizes the batter, contributing to the cake’s tender crumb.
Egg whites (room temperature): Provide lift and help achieve a light texture without weighing the cake down.
Vanilla extract: Infuses the cake and buttercream with warm, comforting flavor.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the buttercream to velvety perfection.
Milk or cream (for frosting): Adjusts the consistency of the buttercream to smooth spreadability.

How to Make White Sheet Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Begin by positioning your oven rack in the middle and preheating it to 350ºF (177ºC). Grease and flour a 9″ x 13″ baking pan or use your favorite homemade cake release to ensure the cake slides out effortlessly later.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Use a mixer on low speed until everything is thoroughly blended, about a minute. This ensures an even distribution of leavening and flavor.

Step 3: Incorporate the Butter

Add the softened butter and beat the mixture at low speed until it looks like sandy crumbs. This technique creates a lovely texture when baked. Remember to scrape down the sides to mix everything evenly.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate container, gently whisk together the milk, egg whites, and vanilla extract using a fork just until blended. Keeping everything at room temperature will help with smooth incorporation into the batter.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Components

With your mixer on medium-low, gradually add half the milk mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until blended. Then add the remaining wet mixture and beat again on medium-low until incorporated. Scrape the bowl, increase the mixer to medium, and whip for about 30 seconds to smooth out any lumps.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 32 to 34 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top has a slight golden hue. Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack before moving on to frosting.

Step 7: Make the Vanilla Buttercream

Beat the softened butter on medium-high speed until silky smooth. Lower the speed and slowly add powdered sugar and salt, mixing until combined. Stir in the vanilla extract, then gradually add milk or cream until you achieve your desired frosting consistency. Beat the buttercream on medium speed until light and fluffy.

Step 8: Frost the Cake

Spread the vanilla buttercream evenly over the cooled cake. The smooth, creamy frosting complements the tender cake perfectly, creating the classic treat so many adore.

How to Serve White Sheet Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Recipe

A plain rectangular sponge cake with a golden brown color, resting evenly inside a white baking tray lined with slightly wrinkled light brown parchment paper that curls up around the edges, on a white marbled surface background, showing a soft and slightly porous texture on top without any toppings or decoration, viewed from above photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While the cake is stunning on its own, a few thoughtful garnishes can elevate your presentation. Fresh berries or edible flowers add a pop of color and freshness. Toasted nuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar can also add enticing texture and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Pair your slice with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch. For a refreshing contrast, serve alongside a citrusy fruit salad to balance the rich flavors and add brightness to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the cake into small squares for party finger foods or layering slices between plates with layers of extra frosting for a mini-trifle effect. For a rustic appeal, serve the cake on a wooden board surrounded by flowers or fresh herbs for a garden-party vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cake tightly covered at room temperature for up to four days to keep it fresh and moist. If you prefer, refrigeration extends freshness up to a week but be sure to let leftovers come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

This White Sheet Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Recipe freezes really well. Wrap the cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen cake can last up to two months. Thaw fully at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

If you want to warm your cake slightly, heat single slices in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. Avoid reheating the entire cake in the oven, as buttercream frosting can melt and change texture undesirably.

FAQs

Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites in this cake?

For this particular White Sheet Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Recipe, egg whites help create a lighter, fluffier texture. Using whole eggs might make the cake a bit denser, but if you prefer, try substituting with slightly less yolk to keep the balance.

Is it necessary to use cornstarch in the cake batter?

Cornstarch helps lighten the all-purpose flour, contributing to the tender crumb that this cake is known for. While you can omit it, the texture may be a little firmer, so it’s best to keep it if possible.

How long can I keep the cake frosted with vanilla buttercream?

Once frosted, the cake is best enjoyed within four days stored tightly covered at room temperature or up to one week refrigerated. Always keep it covered to prevent it from drying out or absorbing fridge odors.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

To adapt this White Sheet Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Recipe for gluten-free diets, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum. The texture might vary slightly, but it should still be delicious.

What is the best way to achieve smooth vanilla buttercream?

Beating the butter thoroughly until smooth before adding powdered sugar, slowly adding liquid, and then beating again at medium speed helps create a silky, fluffy buttercream. Using room temperature ingredients really makes a difference in smoothness.

Final Thoughts

Baking this White Sheet Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Recipe is like creating a little piece of heaven you can share with loved ones. It’s simple enough to whip up any day but special enough for holidays and celebrations. Give it a try and watch how it becomes your go-to for smiles and sweet moments alike.