Moist Vanilla Strawberry Sheet Cake

Name: Moist Vanilla Strawberry Sheet Cake
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; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2-3 tablespoons milk; Additional fresh strawberries for decoration

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I absolutely love making this Moist Vanilla Strawberry Sheet Cake for gatherings and special occasions. The fragrant vanilla paired with fresh strawberries creates a delightful harmony that is hard to resist. Each slice boasts a soft, fluffy texture complemented by the sweetness of the strawberries. I can’t help but smile when I see my friends’ reactions when they take a bite. This cake is not only beautiful but also a real crowd-pleaser, perfect for any celebration or just a sweet treat at home.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:53:36.913Z

When I first tried baking a sheet cake, I was a bit intimidated, but this Moist Vanilla Strawberry Sheet Cake turned out to be a breeze. The key is to use fresh strawberries for the right balance of sweetness and tartness. I also whipped up the batter until it was just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Trust me, each bite feels like a celebration!

One of my favorite tips is to reserve some strawberry slices to decorate the top of the cake before serving. It not only makes the cake visually appealing but also gives an extra pop of flavor. Plus, pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream takes it to the next level. You’re going to love it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Soft and tender cake that melts in your mouth
Fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor
Perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying with family

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Moist Vanilla Strawberry Sheet Cake lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. The all-purpose flour provides the structure, while the eggs play a crucial role in binding the ingredients. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for optimal incorporation. This helps achieve a fluffy texture that is key to a delightful cake. The unsalted butter not only contributes moisture but also adds a rich flavor, making it essential to use high-quality butter for the best results.

In addition to the main ingredients, the choice of strawberries significantly impacts the cake's flavor. Fresh strawberries provide a juicy sweetness and vibrant color, enhancing the overall aesthetic. I recommend using ripe, fragrant strawberries as they yield the best flavor and moisture. If strawberries are out of season, feel free to substitute with frozen strawberries. Just be sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in your batter, which can lead to a dense cake.

Baking Tips for Success

The baking process is critical to achieving a moist cake. When you pour the batter into the prepared pan, take a moment to smooth out the top with a spatula for even baking. It’s important to check the cake a few minutes before the timer goes off; ovens can vary in temperature. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, indicating it's perfectly baked. Avoid over-baking, as it can lead to a dry texture; a golden edge is a good visual cue.

While the cake is cooling, don’t rush into frosting it. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack to prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off. This is crucial for the final presentation. If you find that your cake has domed slightly, don’t worry! You can trim the top with a serrated knife for a flatter surface, making it easier to frost. Making a small batch or dividing the batter into two pans can also allow for layering and adding even more strawberries between the layers.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped

Frosting Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2-3 tablespoons milk
Additional fresh strawberries for decoration

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a sheet cake pan.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Combine Ingredients

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Stir in vanilla extract and chopped strawberries.

Bake the Cake

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

Prepare the Frosting

While the cake cools, beat the softened butter for the frosting until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well. Add milk to achieve desired consistency and stir in vanilla.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly on top. Decorate with additional fresh strawberries.

Serve and Enjoy

Cut into slices and serve to your delighted guests!

Pro Tips

For extra moisture, consider brushing the layers with a simple syrup before frosting. This makes the cake even more delightful!

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

This cake can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment. Once it is fully cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to three days. If you want to extend its life further, consider freezing the unfrosted cake. Simply wrap it in plastic and foil, and it can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before frosting.

If you're planning a gathering, it’s a good idea to frost the cake the day of serving. This leads to a fresher taste and texture. However, if you must frost it in advance, opt for a cream cheese frosting instead of buttercream, as it tends to hold up better under refrigeration without creating a soggy texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a fun serving twist, consider cutting the cake into bite-sized squares and placing them on a dessert platter. This allows guests to enjoy a taste without committing to a full slice. Adding a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce can elevate the experience, offering contrasting flavors that complement the vanilla and strawberries beautifully.

Feel free to get creative with variations! Instead of strawberries, you could try using raspberries or blueberries. These fruits not only pair well with vanilla but also bring similar moisture content. For a citrus twist, adding a tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter can add an extra zing that’s refreshing and delightful. Always remember to balance the sweetness in such variations to maintain the cake’s integrity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute almond milk for regular milk and use plant-based butter.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

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

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries yield the best flavor, but if using frozen, ensure they are thawed and drained well before adding.

→ What other fruits can I use in this recipe?

You can experiment with blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches for a different flavor profile.