Are you looking for a dessert that’s easy to make, feeds a crowd, and tastes amazing? Look no further than a classic 9×13 sheet cake! With its simplicity, versatility, and show-stopping presentation, it’s no wonder this beloved treat has remained a party favorite for generations.
From decadent chocolate cakes to bright and citrusy lemon options, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 delicious sheet cake recipes perfect for parties. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just want to surprise your friends and family with a sweet treat, these scrumptious desserts are sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of sheet cakes and explore all the possibilities. From classic vanilla to creative combinations like peanut butter chocolate and s’mores, you’ll find inspiration for your next gathering or special occasion. So let’s get started and discover the joy of sheet cake making!
Classic Vanilla Sheet Cake with Buttercream Frosting
This timeless recipe yields a moist and flavorful vanilla cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Pair it with the creamy buttercream frosting, and you’ve got a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before frosting with buttercream.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate Fudge Sheet Cake with Ganache Topping
This moist and indulgent chocolate cake is topped with a velvety ganache, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth. This recipe makes one 9×13-inch sheet cake that’s sure to be devoured at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the ganache:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cake to cool completely before topping with ganache.
Ganache Topping:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream and chocolate chips until smooth.
2. Spread over cooled cake and refrigerate until set.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This refreshing sheet cake is perfect for warm weather gatherings or potlucks. A moist lemon-blueberry cake, topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting, will be the star of the show.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 15×10-inch baking sheet.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, lemon juice, and blueberries; mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter onto prepared baking sheet and smooth top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before frosting with cream cheese mixture (beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth, then add vanilla extract and powdered sugar).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Red Velvet Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Elevate your dessert game with this moist and decadent red velvet sheet cake, topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons red food coloring
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, red food coloring, and buttermilk. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cake to cool completely before frosting with Cream Cheese Frosting (recipe below).
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Mix all ingredients until smooth and creamy. Spread or drizzle over cooled cake.
Carrot Cake Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This classic carrot cake recipe gets a modern twist by baking it in a sheet pan, making it perfect for large gatherings or potlucks. The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy and creamy contrast to the warm spices and sweetness of the cake.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch sheet pan.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, combine wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in carrots and walnuts (if using).
6. Pour batter into prepared sheet pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool completely before frosting.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Funfetti Sheet Cake with Vanilla Buttercream
This vibrant and playful sheet cake is perfect for birthdays, parties, or just because. A moist vanilla cake infused with colorful funfetti sprinkles and topped with creamy vanilla buttercream is sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup funfetti sprinkles
– 1 cup powdered sugar (for buttercream)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for buttercream)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
3. Fold in funfetti sprinkles. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Allow cake to cool completely before spreading with vanilla buttercream.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake with Whipped Cream
Celebrate the sweet taste of summer with this classic Strawberry Shortcake Sheet Cake, topped with a fluffy whipped cream and fresh strawberries. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups hulled and sliced strawberries
– Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh strawberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cake to cool completely before topping with whipped cream and sliced strawberries.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peanut Butter Chocolate Sheet Cake with Reese’s Topping
Peanut Butter Chocolate Sheet Cake with Reese’s Topping Recipe
Moist peanut butter cake meets rich chocolate frosting and crunchy Reese’s Pieces topping – a match made in heaven! This easy sheet cake recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup Reese’s Pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cake to cool completely before frosting with melted chocolate chips and topping with Reese’s Pieces.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Coconut Pineapple Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This tropical-inspired sheet cake is perfect for a summer gathering or potluck. With the combination of sweet pineapple, creamy coconut, and tangy cream cheese frosting, this dessert is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 cup crushed pineapple
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add unsweetened shredded coconut and crushed pineapple; stir until combined.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until smooth. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Beat in vanilla extract. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth.
Banana Pudding Sheet Cake with Vanilla Wafers
This moist sheet cake is infused with the warmth of banana pudding and topped with crunchy vanilla wafers. Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, mashed bananas, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with crushed vanilla wafers.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Oreo Cookies and Cream Sheet Cake
This moist and flavorful sheet cake is packed with the unmistakable taste of Oreos, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth. With its creamy filling and crunchy cookie crust, this cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup crushed Oreo cookies
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 12 ounces white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
3. Press the mixture into the prepared pan.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Allow cake to cool completely before spreading with heavy cream and topping with crushed Oreos.
6. Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave (30-second intervals, stirring between each interval). Spread over the top of the cake.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
S’mores Sheet Cake with Marshmallow Frosting
This S’mores Sheet Cake with Marshmallow Frosting is a fun twist on the classic campfire treat, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or backyard gatherings. Moist chocolate cake, gooey marshmallows, and toasted graham crackers come together in one delicious sheet cake.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup marshmallows, mini or regular
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– Marshmallow Frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking powder.
3. Add milk, eggs, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
5. While cake is baking, toast marshmallows with a kitchen torch or under the broiler.
6. Top warm cake with toasted marshmallows, graham cracker crumbs, and Marshmallow Frosting (recipe below).
Marshmallow Frosting:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups mini marshmallows
Whisk together powdered sugar, butter, and marshmallows until smooth.
Pumpkin Spice Sheet Cake with Cinnamon Frosting
Celebrate fall with this moist and flavorful sheet cake, infused with the warmth of pumpkin spice and topped with a creamy cinnamon frosting.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– Cinnamon frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, pumpkin puree, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cinnamon Frosting:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons cinnamon powder
Beat butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Add cinnamon powder and mix until combined.
Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake with Caramel Drizzle
This moist and flavorful sheet cake is perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in. The combination of tender apples, warm cinnamon, and gooey caramel drizzle will become your new favorite dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups diced apples (about 3-4 medium-sized)
– Caramel drizzle (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and cinnamon.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Add flour mixture, then fold in diced apples.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool completely before drizzling with caramel.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
German Chocolate Sheet Cake with Coconut Pecan Frosting
This rich and decadent sheet cake is a twist on the classic recipe, featuring a velvety coconut pecan frosting that complements the deep, dark flavors of the chocolate.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 15×10-inch baking sheet and line with parchment paper.
2. Mix dry ingredients in a bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, combine sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before frosting with coconut pecan frosting.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tiramisu Sheet Cake with Coffee Soaked Layers
Elevate your dessert game with this Tiramisu-inspired sheet cake, featuring layers of coffee-soaked goodness and creamy mascarpone cheese frosting. Perfect for a special occasion or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee
– Mascarpone cheese frosting (recipe not included)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and cocoa powder.
3. Add coffee to the wet mixture and stir until combined.
4. Gradually pour wet mixture into dry ingredients, whisking until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cake to cool completely before assembling with mascarpone cheese frosting.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Forest Sheet Cake with Cherry Topping
Rich, mocha-flavored cake layered with whipped cream and topped with a tangy cherry compote makes for an unforgettable dessert.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the cherry topping:
– 1 cup pitted cherries
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 10×15-inch baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking powder in a medium bowl. Add milk, eggs, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
3. Pour batter into prepared baking sheet and smooth top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Allow cake to cool completely before spreading whipped cream on top.
5. In a small saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
6. Spoon cherry topping over whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Raspberry Sheet Cake with Raspberry Glaze
Brighten up your day with this refreshing lemon raspberry sheet cake, topped with a sweet and tangy raspberry glaze.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
For the glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons raspberry jam
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 10×15-inch baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter, eggs, lemon juice, milk, and raspberries. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour batter onto prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Allow cake to cool completely before glazing. Whisk together powdered sugar, raspberry jam, and heavy cream until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your party guests with these 18 delicious sheet cake recipes perfect for any occasion! From classic vanilla and chocolate fudge to fruity and funfetti options, there’s something for everyone. Try making a lemon blueberry or strawberry shortcake for a sweet treat. If you’re feeling adventurous, go for a peanut butter chocolate or s’mores-inspired cake. And don’t forget about seasonal favorites like pumpkin spice, apple cinnamon, and German chocolate. With these easy-to-make recipes, you’ll be the star of any gathering.
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