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 milk; 3 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon milk (optional, for consistency)

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Recipes

Indulge in the delightful flavors of our Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake, perfectly complemented by a rich and creamy cream cheese frosting. This cake is a must-try for any dessert lover!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:41:18.415Z

This Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake is a nostalgic treat that brings back sweet memories of family gatherings and celebrations. The aromatic vanilla bean adds a unique depth of flavor, while the cream cheese frosting brings a tangy sweetness that perfectly balances the cake's richness.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Lush vanilla flavor enhanced by real vanilla bean specks
Creamy cream cheese frosting that adds a delightful tang
Easy to make in a single sheet pan, perfect for gatherings

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

This Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a potluck, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Its delightful balance of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will adore. The light and fluffy cake pairs beautifully with the rich cream cheese frosting, creating a decadent treat that is sure to impress your guests.

Sheet cakes are incredibly versatile and easy to serve, making them ideal for gatherings. You can easily cut this cake into squares, allowing for simple portion control and minimal mess. Plus, the straightforward preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your friends and family.

Why Vanilla Bean?

Using real vanilla bean in this recipe elevates the flavor profile to new heights. The tiny specks of vanilla bean not only enhance the visual appeal of the cake but also impart a deep, aromatic essence that pure vanilla extract cannot replicate. This natural ingredient is a game changer, providing a lush and fragrant experience with every bite.

Incorporating vanilla bean into your baking not only enhances flavor but also adds an element of sophistication. It speaks to the quality of your ingredients and showcases your culinary skills. Your guests will appreciate the extra effort, and you'll enjoy the delight of serving a cake that is both beautiful and delicious.

Storing and Serving Tips

To keep your Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake fresh, store it covered at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it for longer, refrigerating it will extend its shelf life by up to a week. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving to fully enjoy its flavors and texture.

When serving, consider garnishing each slice with fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. This not only adds a pop of color but also complements the flavors beautifully. With its versatility and charm, this cake is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

For the Frosting

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

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan

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

Mix Cake Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and vanilla bean seeds.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Make the Frosting

While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

If needed, add milk for a smoother consistency.

Frost the Cake

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

Enjoy your delicious Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake!

Variations to Try

While this Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake is delightful on its own, there are plenty of variations to explore. Consider adding a layer of fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries or peaches, between the cake and frosting for a refreshing twist. You can also experiment with different flavorings in the frosting, such as lemon zest or almond extract, to create a unique taste experience.

For a chocolate lover's version, you can incorporate cocoa powder into the batter and make a cream cheese chocolate frosting. This will give you a deliciously rich cake that still retains the fluffy texture of the original recipe. Don't hesitate to get creative with your ingredients!

Perfect Pairings

Pair your Vanilla Bean Sheet Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent dessert experience. The cold creaminess of these accompaniments perfectly balances the warmth of the cake, creating a delightful contrast that your taste buds will love.

For beverage pairings, consider serving this cake with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. The subtle notes of vanilla will complement your drink beautifully, making for a comforting and satisfying treat any time of day. Whether enjoyed at a party or as an afternoon snack, this combination is sure to please.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it just before serving.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I substitute the cream cheese frosting?

Absolutely! You can use buttercream or whipped cream as alternatives.

→ Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the cake without frosting for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.