Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed)

Highlighted under: Whisked Delight Recipes

Enjoy a delightful Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake topped with rich Cream Cheese Frosting. Perfect for any occasion or just as a sweet treat!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:42:19.119Z

This Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake is a classic dessert that combines the rich flavor of vanilla beans with a moist, tender crumb. Topped with a velvety cream cheese frosting, it’s a crowd-pleaser for birthdays, celebrations, or any gathering.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor enhanced by real vanilla beans
Creamy frosting that complements the cake perfectly
Easy to make and serves a crowd

      

The Perfect Dessert for Every Occasion

This Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake is an ideal dessert for a wide range of occasions. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a family gathering, or simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress. Its light and fluffy texture, combined with the rich vanilla flavor, makes it a favorite among both children and adults alike.

Moreover, the sheet cake format allows for easy serving and sharing. You can cut it into squares, making it convenient for parties, potlucks, or bake sales. It’s a delightful way to bring people together over a delicious treat, and the beautiful presentation will make you the star of any gathering.

Elevate Your Baking Skills

Baking a sheet cake might seem simple, but this recipe allows you to elevate your skills with a touch of sophistication. The use of real vanilla bean paste not only enhances the flavor but also adds a visual appeal with its tiny specks throughout the cake. This small detail can make a big difference, impressing your guests with a cake that looks as good as it tastes.

Additionally, the cream cheese frosting adds a creamy richness that complements the cake beautifully. Learning to make a homemade frosting from scratch is a valuable skill that can be applied to other desserts in the future. By mastering this recipe, you’re well on your way to becoming a baking pro!

Storing and Serving Tips

To ensure your Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake stays fresh and delicious, it's important to store it properly. After frosting the cake, cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for a day or two, but for longer storage, consider refrigerating it. The flavors often deepen after a day in the fridge, making it even more enjoyable when you serve it later.

When you're ready to serve, allow the cake to come to room temperature if it has been refrigerated. This will enhance the flavors and make the frosting creamy again. For an added touch, consider garnishing each slice with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an elegant presentation.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 13x18 inch sheet pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla bean paste.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Prepare the Frosting

While the cake cools, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy. Add milk to reach desired consistency.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake into squares and serve. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Understanding Vanilla Bean Paste

Vanilla bean paste is a wonderful ingredient that can elevate your baking. It combines the essence of vanilla extract with the actual seeds from vanilla beans, offering a more intense flavor and beautiful appearance. Utilizing vanilla bean paste in this recipe not only enhances the taste of the cake but also adds a gourmet touch that is often associated with high-end desserts.

When shopping for vanilla bean paste, look for products that list 'pure' or 'natural' on the label, avoiding those with artificial ingredients. This ensures you're getting the best flavor and quality for your baking endeavors.

Customizing Your Cake

This Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake is versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your tastes or the theme of your event. You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even a layer of fruit preserves between the cake and frosting for extra flavor. Experimenting with different flavors of frosting, such as lemon or chocolate, can also bring a new twist to this classic dessert.

For a seasonal variation, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter or frosting. These small changes can transform your cake and keep it exciting for every occasion.

Pairing Suggestions

To make your dessert experience even more delightful, consider pairing this Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake with beverages that complement its flavors. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a rich hot chocolate can enhance the cake's sweetness and provide a comforting balance.

For a refreshing option, serve the cake with a glass of cold milk or a fruity iced tea. These combinations will not only highlight the cake's delicious vanilla flavor but also create a well-rounded dessert experience that your guests will love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use vanilla extract instead of vanilla bean paste?

Yes, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can this cake be made gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting.