How to Make the Classic Yellow Sheet Cake Everybody Loves

Wedesserts
by Wedesserts
12 servings
45 min
Table of Contents

Craving a taste of nostalgia? Whip up a batch of Classic Yellow Sheet Cake with this easy recipe. It’s the kind of cake that’s perfect for any occasion – birthdays, potlucks, or just because you deserve a sweet treat.

Picture this: a buttery cake with a golden hue and vanilla aromas. The best part? You probably already have all the ingredients you need in your pantry – flour, sugar, eggs, and butter.

This recipe makes a quarter-sheet cake, which is just the right size for sharing. Plus, the rectangular shape means you can slice it up into perfectly portioned squares.

But here’s where the fun really starts – the toppings! Whether you’re a fan of classic chocolate buttercream frosting, a swirl of whipped cream, or just want to keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar, this cake is your blank canvas.

So why wait? Get baking and treat yourself to a slice or two of this versatile and delicious yellow sheet cake. It’s comfort food at its finest.

Now put on your apron and get your whisk ready!

A slice of yellow sheet cake on the rack
Why we love 💕the Classic Yellow Sheet Cake


  • It’s our childhood favorite cake and bring back so many fun memories!
  • It’s so simple and versatile with everyday ingredients in your pantry
  • Serve it with your favorite toppings from whipped cream, powdered sugar, or chocolate buttercream frosting

If you like chocolate, try our Chocolate Biscuit Cake recipe


👩‍🍳Kitchenware you need to make the Classic Yellow Sheet Cake


  • 1 large mixing bowl
  • 9” x 13” baking pan
  • Handheld mixer (or stand mixer or a whisk)
  • Spatula


💡Fact


The Yellow Cake dates back to the 19th century when leavening agents such as baking powder replaced yeast or egg whites to incorporate air into the batter. It is known in the US as a celebration cake and is thought to be derived from the English pound cake. Source: Bakerpedia.com


📝Ingredients


  • Butter
  • Sugar
  • Eggs
  • All-purpose flour
  • Milk
  • Vanilla extract
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda


Handy tip


Make sure that the cream cheese is at room temperature


🕐How to make the Classic Yellow Sheet Cake recipe
Cream butter with sugar in a large mixing bowl using a handheld mixer
Add vanilla and eggs to the mixture
Mix in the dry ingredients and mix on low speed until just blended
Pour batter in the baking sheet pan and bake for 30 minutes
This is the baked yellow sheet cake
A slice of yellow sheet cake on the rack

Did you make this? Follow us on Pinterest @wedesserts or tag on Instagram and Facebook. We can’t wait to see your creative recipes!

More cakes? Try our amazing Victoria Sponge Cake with strawberries

FAQs about the Classic Yellow Sheet Cake


Can I make this Yellow Cake recipe gluten free?


You can make this Yellow Cake gluten free if you decide to use gluten free flour. As always, changing the flour will change the consistency of the dough and, therefore, the recipe may well need to be tweaked. Professional bakers substitute one cup of all-purpose flour with one cup of gluten-free flour. However, keep in mind that gluten provides structure that is lost without gluten so you may need to add some stabilizers such as xanthan gum.


Can I make this Yellow Cake recipe vegan?


You can make a vegan Yellow Sheet Cake. In order to do it, you will have to use plant-based butter and milk as well as to replace eggs with an egg replacer. However, you may not get the same buttery texture from the vegan cake.


What toppings I should use for this cake?


Your toppings of your choice! Whipped cream, chocolate fudge frosting, chocolate buttercream frosting, simple chocolate frosting, powdered sugar, and more!


How can I store this Cake?


The Yellow Sheet Cake can stay at room temperature for up to four days. You can refrigerate the Yellow Cake for up to a week, ideally in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying up.


Can I freeze the Yellow Sheet Cake?


You can freeze the Yellow Sheet Cake for up to 3 months. However, the texture may not be the same as fresh-baked cake when you thaw and serve it.


📖 RECIPE CARD
How to Make the Classic Yellow Sheet Cake Everybody Loves
Recipe details
  • 12  servings
  • Prep time: 15 Minutes Cook time: 30 Minutes Total time: 45 min
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Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 3/4 cup whole milk
  • 1 1/2 cup unsalted butter room temperature
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 2 teaspoon real vanilla extract
Instructions

Preheat oven to 350℉ and spray a 9” x 13” pan with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar with a handheld mixer until well blended
Add in the eggs and vanilla and mix to combine
Slowly mix in the dry ingredients and mix on low speed until just blended
Add and mix in milk
Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula
Place in the pre-heated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle of the cake comes out clean
Remove from oven and cool completely before topping with your choice of frosting. Slice and serve immediately, if desired
Tips
  • Use a handheld or stand mixer for ease and speed. You can use a whisk but it will take more time to finish the recipe.
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