The Golden Butter Sheet Cake is a wonderfully simple, nostalgic dessert featuring a soft, moist crumb and a delicate dusting of powdered sugar. Baked in a single pan and easy to portion, this cake is perfect for everyday treats, school lunches, family gatherings, or potlucks. It’s buttery, subtly sweet, and versatile enough to dress up or enjoy as-is.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sheet cake is delightfully straightforward yet full of flavor. The golden crust and airy interior make it ideal for layering with toppings or enjoying plain. Because it’s made in one pan, it’s easy to bake, store, and serve. No special equipment or elaborate decoration needed—just classic, reliable goodness in every slice.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour

• Baking powder

• Salt

• Unsalted butter (softened)

• Granulated sugar

• Eggs

• Whole milk

• Vanilla extract

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

2. Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

3. Cream butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy.

4. Beat in eggs, one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.

5. Alternate adding flour mixture and milk into the butter mixture, mixing until smooth.

6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.

7. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

9. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12

• Preparation time: 15 minutes

• Cooking time: 35 minutes

• Cooling time: 45 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Variations

• Cinnamon sugar top: Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the batter before baking for a warm twist.

• Lemon or almond extract: Replace some vanilla with other flavorings for variety.

• Berry addition: Top with fresh berries before baking for a fruit-studded version.

• Glaze it: Add a simple milk glaze instead of powdered sugar for a sweet sheen.

Storage/reheating

Store the cake, covered, at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate if using fresh fruit or glaze. To reheat, microwave individual slices for 10–15 seconds. The cake can also be frozen for up to 2 months—wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it keeps well for several days and tastes even better the next day.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is recommended for best flavor, but margarine can be used in equal amounts.

What’s the best way to cut clean slices?

Let the cake cool completely and use a long, sharp knife. Wipe the blade between cuts.

Can I use cake flour?

Yes, for an even lighter crumb. Use 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons of cake flour per cup of all-purpose flour.

Is this cake overly sweet?

No, it has a moderate sweetness and pairs well with fruit or whipped cream.

Can I frost this cake?

Yes, it pairs well with vanilla, chocolate, or cream cheese frosting.

Can I bake this in a round pan?

Yes, divide into two 9-inch round pans and reduce bake time by a few minutes.

What if my cake sinks in the middle?

This may happen if the batter is overmixed or underbaked. Make sure to check doneness thoroughly.

Can I add mix-ins?

Yes, chocolate chips, coconut, or nuts work well stirred into the batter.

Is it suitable for layering?

While it’s best as a sheet cake, you can slice it horizontally and fill with cream or fruit.

Conclusion

The Golden Butter Sheet Cake is a reliable, delicious, and versatile dessert that’s perfect for both everyday enjoyment and special occasions. With its moist texture, subtle vanilla flavor, and ease of preparation, it’s the kind of recipe that becomes a family favorite—passed down and enjoyed for generations.

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