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; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed)

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats

This Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavors of vanilla and cream cheese in a light and fluffy cake.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:53:19.068Z

This Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a birthday party, a family gathering, or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home. The rich flavor of vanilla bean shines through in every bite, complemented perfectly by the creamy frosting.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Delicate vanilla flavor enhanced by real vanilla beans
Luxuriously creamy cream cheese frosting that is irresistible
Perfect for serving a crowd or for meal prep throughout the week

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

This Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake is not just another dessert; it is a versatile option that shines at any gathering. Whether it's a birthday party, a family reunion, or a simple weekday treat, this cake is guaranteed to impress. Its light texture and rich flavor profile make it suitable for both casual and formal occasions, ensuring that it will be a hit among your guests.

One of the best features of this cake is its ability to be made ahead of time. Preparing a sheet cake allows for easy storage and transportation, making it an ideal choice for potlucks and picnics. Simply bake, frost, and cut into squares, and you’re ready to go!

Why Vanilla Beans Matter

Using real vanilla beans or vanilla bean paste significantly elevates the flavor of your cake. Unlike artificial vanilla extracts, which can sometimes taste synthetic, vanilla bean paste delivers a rich and aromatic experience. The tiny specks of vanilla bean throughout the cake not only enhance the taste but also add a beautiful visual element, making each slice truly enticing.

Moreover, vanilla beans are known for their warm and comforting aroma, making your kitchen smell heavenly while the cake bakes. This authentic flavor is what sets this cake apart from standard vanilla recipes, ensuring that every bite is packed with genuine vanilla goodness.

Customize Your Cake

While this Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake is delicious as is, it's also a fantastic base for customization. You can easily add your favorite mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, nuts, or fresh fruits, to create a unique twist. Additionally, consider experimenting with different frostings like chocolate or lemon for a refreshing change.

For an even more decadent treat, drizzle a caramel or chocolate sauce over the frosted cake before serving. This not only adds another layer of flavor but also enhances the presentation, making it even more irresistible.

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
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed)

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 13x18 inch sheet pan. In a large 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 milk and vanilla bean paste.

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. 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 smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake cools, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until well combined.

Stir in the vanilla extract and add milk as needed to achieve desired consistency.

Frost the Cake

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

Enjoy your delicious Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake!

Storage Tips

To ensure your Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake stays fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for up to a week. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

If you want to prepare the cake in advance, you can also freeze it. Wrap the cooled, unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and frost it before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in flavors and textures. A dollop of whipped cream can also enhance the cake, making it feel extra special.

For a more refined experience, plate the cake with a drizzle of raspberry coulis or a sprinkle of edible flowers. These touches not only elevate the presentation but also add a burst of color that makes for an eye-catching dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use butter instead of cream cheese for the frosting?

Yes, you can make a buttercream frosting if you prefer, but the cream cheese adds a nice tanginess.

→ How should I store the 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 in the refrigerator before serving.

→ What can I substitute for the eggs?

You can use flax eggs or unsweetened applesauce as a substitute for eggs.