Vanilla Texas Sheet Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 20 Cuisine: American

A rich and moist vanilla Texas sheet cake with a tender crumb, topped with creamy frosting, perfect for gatherings and celebrations, offering classic Southern comfort flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 2 2/3 cups flour
  • 1 cup margarine, divided
  • 1/2 cup oil
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2/3 cup buttermilk
  • 8 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 pound powdered sugar
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 3 teaspoons vanilla
  • 1 1/2 tsp. baking soda

Instructions

  1. Mix flour and granulated sugar together in a bowl.
  2. Bring 1/2 cup margarine, oil, and water to a boil; pour over the flour mixture and beat thoroughly.
  3. Beat in eggs, 2 teaspoons vanilla, cinnamon, baking soda, and buttermilk.
  4. Pour the batter into a greased 17 x 11-inch pan.
  5. Bake in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing regular milk with vinegar. Ensure you beat the batter until just combined to avoid a dense cake. For added texture, fold in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips before baking. This cake also pairs beautifully with Miniature Coffee Cakes for a dessert spread.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Vanilla Texas Sheet Cake plain, or drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze for extra sweetness. It pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a more festive touch, top with fresh berries or serve alongside Walleye On The Grill for a delightful summer meal. It's perfect for gatherings and potlucks.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warm. This cake can also be enjoyed chilled for a refreshing treat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Vanilla Texas Sheet Cake contains roughly 303 calories, with 3g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value).

303 kcal 15% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.3g 7% DV
Total Fat 22.4g 29% DV
Carbs 20.4g 7% DV
Fiber 0.4g 1% DV
Sugar 16.2g 32% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 413.5mg 18% DV
Potassium 102.9mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 26.2mg 9% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 87.7mcg 10% DV
Vitamin C 2.2mg 2% DV
Vitamin D 0.5mcg 3% DV
Calcium 72.5mg 6% DV
Iron 0.5mg 3% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this Vanilla Texas Sheet Cake can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to store it properly in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you plan to frost the cake, wait until you're ready to serve to add any icing or toppings, as they can soften the cake over time.

What if I don't have cake flour?

If you don't have cake flour, you can use all-purpose flour instead. For every cup of all-purpose flour, remove 2 tablespoons and replace them with cornstarch. This will mimic the texture of cake flour and help keep your cake light and fluffy.

Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! This cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving, and it will taste just as delicious.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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