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 pure vanilla extract; 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped; ½ teaspoon salt; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon milk (if needed for consistency)

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipe Collection

Delight in the rich flavor of this Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake, topped with a luscious Cream Cheese Frosting. Perfect for any occasion, this cake combines the classic taste of vanilla with a creamy finish.

Created by

Luca

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:54:18.773Z

This Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. Its moist texture and aromatic vanilla flavor make it a favorite among cake lovers.

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

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Gathering

Whether it's a birthday party, a family reunion, or a casual get-together with friends, this Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake is sure to impress. Its generous size makes it easy to serve a crowd, and the moist texture combined with the rich flavor of vanilla will leave everyone wanting more. Plus, the delightful cream cheese frosting adds a touch of elegance that elevates this dessert to a whole new level.

One of the best things about this cake is its versatility. You can enjoy it as is, or you can customize it to fit the occasion. Add fresh fruit on top for a summer gathering, or sprinkle some chocolate shavings for a decadent twist. This cake is a blank canvas that you can easily transform to suit your taste and the event.

Tips for Baking Success

To achieve the best results with your Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking. Also, be sure to measure your flour correctly—too much flour can result in a dense cake. Use the spoon-and-level method: spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level off the top with a knife for accuracy.

When mixing your batter, avoid overmixing. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just incorporated. This will help keep the cake light and fluffy. Lastly, don't skip the cooling step! Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting; this prevents the frosting from melting and helps maintain its beautiful texture.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, consider refrigerating it, where it can last up to a week. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving, as the flavors will be more pronounced. You can also freeze the unfrosted cake for up to three months—perfect for whipping up a quick dessert later!

When it comes to serving, this cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. For a delightful pairing, consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also add a lovely touch, enhancing both presentation and flavor.

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 pure vanilla extract
1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
½ teaspoon salt

For the Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 tablespoon milk (if needed for consistency)

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Mix Cake Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and the scraped vanilla bean.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Prepare the Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and creamy. If needed, add milk to reach the desired consistency.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Cut into squares and serve.

Exploring Flavor Variations

While the classic vanilla flavor is delightful on its own, you can easily explore different flavor variations to suit your preferences. For an extra burst of citrus, consider adding a tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter. This will give the cake a refreshing twist that pairs beautifully with the cream cheese frosting.

If you want to incorporate chocolate, try adding cocoa powder to the batter, or fold in some mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite. Alternatively, you can swap the vanilla extract for almond extract for a nutty flavor profile that complements the cream cheese frosting wonderfully.

Perfect Pairings

This Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages. A hot cup of coffee or a chilled glass of milk are classic choices that enhance the cake's flavors. For something more refreshing, serve it with iced tea or lemonade, especially during warm weather gatherings.

If you're looking to elevate your dessert experience further, consider pairing slices of this cake with fresh fruit or a fruit compote. Strawberries, raspberries, or even a peach compote can add a burst of flavor that complements the rich vanilla and cream cheese beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of frosting?

Yes, you can substitute with buttercream or chocolate frosting if you prefer.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

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

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it just before serving.

→ Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour.