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; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup whole milk; 3 large eggs; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste; ½ teaspoon salt; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons heavy cream

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes

This Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of vanilla with a smooth and creamy cream cheese frosting, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:38:18.766Z

This Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake is not only simple to make but also incredibly delicious. The authentic flavor of vanilla beans combined with a light and fluffy texture makes it a favorite among dessert lovers. Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet treat!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor that elevates every bite
Creamy cream cheese frosting that complements the cake beautifully
Perfect for gatherings and easy to serve

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

When it comes to hosting gatherings, a Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake is a show-stopper that never fails to impress. Its generous size makes it ideal for serving a crowd, while its rich vanilla flavor ensures that each bite is a delight. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, a wedding, or simply want to treat your friends and family, this cake is versatile enough to fit any event.

The beauty of this sheet cake lies not only in its flavor but also in its simplicity. Unlike traditional layered cakes, this sheet cake is easy to cut and serve, making it a practical choice for parties and potlucks. Plus, the creamy cream cheese frosting adds a touch of elegance that elevates the overall presentation.

Why Vanilla Bean?

Vanilla bean paste is a key ingredient that takes this cake from ordinary to extraordinary. Unlike vanilla extract, which is predominantly liquid, vanilla bean paste contains the actual seeds from the vanilla pod, providing a more intense flavor and visually appealing specks throughout the cake. This little detail transforms a simple dessert into a gourmet experience.

Using vanilla bean paste also means you can enjoy the complex, aromatic notes of real vanilla in every bite. The rich flavor profile pairs beautifully with the cream cheese frosting, creating a harmonious balance that will leave everyone wanting more. It's these thoughtful touches that make this cake truly special.

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure your Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake comes out perfectly, start by measuring your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and even a slight variation can affect the texture and taste of your cake. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for the flour and sugar, to achieve the best results.

Another tip is to allow your ingredients to come to room temperature before mixing. This step is essential for creating a light and fluffy cake. Cold ingredients can lead to a denser texture, so take the time to let your butter, eggs, and milk warm up a bit. Your cake will thank you!

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons heavy cream

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, milk, and vanilla bean paste to the butter mixture, and mix until well combined.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 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 mix until fluffy. Add vanilla extract and heavy cream, mixing until well combined.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly on top.

Enjoy your delicious Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake!

Storing Your Cake

Once you’ve baked and frosted your Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake, it’s essential to store it properly to maintain its freshness. If you have any leftovers, cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. This will keep it moist and delicious for up to 3 days at room temperature.

For longer storage, consider refrigerating the cake. Just remember that the cream cheese frosting can become firmer when chilled, so allow the cake to sit at room temperature for a short while before serving. This way, the frosting will soften slightly, making it easier to slice and enjoy.

Customize Your Cake

While this Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake is delicious as it is, don’t hesitate to get creative! You can add fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries on top of the frosting for a burst of color and flavor. Alternatively, sprinkle some chopped nuts or chocolate shavings to add texture and visual appeal.

If you want to experiment with flavors, try incorporating citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, into the batter or frosting. This can give the cake a refreshing twist that’s perfect for summer gatherings. The possibilities are endless, and customizing your cake can make it even more special for your occasion.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can substitute vanilla extract for vanilla bean paste, but the flavor may be slightly different.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

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

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake without frosting for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

→ What can I use instead of cream cheese in the frosting?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a different flavor profile.