Classic Vanilla Sheet Cake with Buttercream Frosting

 Classic Vanilla Sheet Cake with Buttercream Frosting

Ingredients for the Cake:

– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk

Ingredients for the Buttercream Frosting:

– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– A pinch of salt

 Instructions:

1. **Preheat the Oven:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.

2. **Make the Cake Batter:**
– In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
– In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
– Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
– Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.

3. **Bake the Cake:**
– Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
– Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
– Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

4. **Prepare the Buttercream Frosting:**
– In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until creamy.
– Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
– Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat the frosting on high speed for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy.

5. **Frost the Cake:**
– Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the buttercream frosting evenly over the top using a spatula.

6. **Serve:**
– Cut the cake into squares and serve. Enjoy!

This classic vanilla sheet cake is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for birthdays, parties, or any occasion where a delicious, simple dessert is needed. Enjoy!