Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake

Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake

· · ·

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about a sheet cake, especially when it comes to a Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake. I remember the first time I baked one for a family gathering; it was a sunny spring day, and I wanted to bring something light and refreshing to the table. The combination of sweet vanilla and tart raspberries danced together in my mind, and I could almost taste it before it even came out of the oven. As the cake baked, the sweet aroma filled my kitchen, drawing family members in like bees to honey. Everyone was curious about what I was whipping up. When I finally unveiled my masterpiece, the delighted smiles on their faces were priceless. This Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake quickly became a staple at our celebrations, perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to picnics.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
40 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
350 kcal
Protein:
5 g
Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Fat:
18 g
Tools Used:
Saucepan, Oven, Wooden Spoon, Baking Sheet, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Large Pot

Why This Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake Hits Different

It’s a Crowd-Pleaser

One of the standout qualities of this Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake is its capacity to serve a crowd. With its generous size, you can easily slice it into squares, making it perfect for parties or gatherings. It’s a dessert that brings everyone together, and you’ll love the compliments that come your way!

Perfect Balance of Flavors

The pairing of sweet and creamy vanilla with the tartness of fresh raspberries is simply unbeatable. Each bite offers a delightful flavor explosion that tantalizes the taste buds. You’ll find that this cake is light enough for a warm day yet satisfying enough to leave you feeling happy.

Easy to Make

Don’t worry if you’re a beginner in the kitchen; this cake is remarkably easy to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious cake ready in no time. It’s one of those recipes that I can confidently say anyone can make!

Versatile for Any Occasion

This cake is perfect for any occasion, be it a festive gathering, family reunion, or a casual afternoon tea. You can also dress it up with some decorative elements, such as whipped cream and fresh raspberries, making it a hit for celebrations!

Make-Ahead Friendly

Another reason to love this Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake is that it can be made a couple of days in advance. Just store it in the fridge, and it will be ready to serve when you are. This is a lifesaver for busy days when you want to enjoy delicious homemade dessert without the last-minute rush.

Beautiful Presentation

Not only does this cake taste fantastic, but it’s also visually appealing. The vibrant color of the raspberries against the fluffy white cake makes it a showstopper on any dessert table. Guests will be reaching for a piece before they even take a bite!

Shopping List for Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake

Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake

The ingredients for this Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake are simple yet effective. The blend of flavors and textures creates a moist and fluffy cake paired with a fruity raspberry filling and a creamy topping. Each component is essential in achieving that delightful taste and look.

  • 1 box Vanilla Cake Mix: This serves as the base for your cake, providing a fluffy texture and sweet flavor.
  • 13.4 oz box INSTANT Vanilla Pudding Mix: This adds moisture and enhances the vanilla flavor, making the cake incredibly rich.
  • 4 large eggs: They are essential for binding the ingredients together, giving structure to your cake.
  • 1 cup milk: Milk adds moisture to the batter and helps create a soft crumb.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil: This keeps the cake moist and tender.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream: Sour cream adds richness and a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
  • 12 oz frozen raspberries: These will be used to create a luscious filling, providing bursts of flavor.
  • 1/2 cup sugar: Sugar sweetens the filling, complementing the tartness of the raspberries.
  • 1 cup water, divided: Water is used in the raspberry filling to help break down the fruit.
  • 4 tbsp cornstarch: This is used to thicken the raspberry filling, creating a perfect texture.
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature: This is the creamy topping that brings everything together.
  • 16 oz frozen whipped topping, thawed: This lightens the cream cheese mixture and adds fluffiness.
  • 2 cups fresh raspberries for decorating: Fresh raspberries not only add color but also enhance the flavor profile of the cake.

Instructions for Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake

Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake

Making this Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake is a fun and rewarding experience. You’ll follow simple steps to create a delightful dessert. Let’s get started!

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Grab a baking sheet that measures 13x18x1 and lightly coat it with non-stick baking spray. This will ensure that your cake comes out of the pan easily.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Vanilla Cake Mix, INSTANT Vanilla Pudding Mix, eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and sour cream. Beat the mixture on low speed for approximately 30 seconds. Then, increase to medium speed for about 1 and a half to 2 minutes. Don’t forget to scrape the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is well mixed.
  3. Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out evenly.
  4. Bake the cake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
  5. While the cake cools, prepare the raspberry filling. In a small saucepan, combine the frozen raspberries, sugar, and half a cup of water. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to help break down the raspberries.
  6. In a separate small dish, mix the remaining half cup of water with the cornstarch. Slowly pour this mixture into the simmering raspberry mix. Continue to cook for a few more minutes until the mixture thickens slightly, then transfer it into a bowl and allow it to cool completely. Once it has cooled, place it in the fridge until it’s chilled.
  7. Now, let’s prepare the cream cheese topping! In a large bowl, add the cream cheese and beat it with a mixer until it’s light and fluffy. Then, add the whipped topping and mix until fully incorporated.
  8. Once the cake has cooled and the raspberry filling has chilled, spread the raspberry mixture evenly over the top of the cake.
  9. Next, dollop the cream cheese mixture over the raspberry filling and carefully spread it into an even layer. This will provide a luscious topping that complements the cake perfectly.
  10. Finally, garnish your Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake with fresh raspberries as desired. Keep the cake chilled until you’re ready to serve it.

Things Worth Knowing

  • Use cold ingredients: Make sure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth batter.
  • Don’t overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until combined to prevent a dense cake.
  • Cake testing: Always test your cake for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, it’s time to remove it from the oven.
  • Chilling the filling: Allowing the raspberry filling to chill helps it set up better before spreading it on the cake.

Change It Up

Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake

If you’re looking to personalize your Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake, here are some fun ideas to consider:

  • Flavor variations: Feel free to incorporate other berries such as blueberries or strawberries for a mixed-berry cake experience.
  • Adding nuts: Chopped nuts can add a delightful crunch to your cake. Consider walnuts or pecans for a complementary flavor.
  • Frosting options: If you prefer a different flavor, you could swap the cream cheese topping for a chocolate ganache.
  • Serving suggestions: Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat!
  • Homemade cake mix: If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your cake mix from scratch instead of using a box mix for a homemade touch.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake, there are plenty of ways to make it shine:

  • Pair with coffee: This cake is perfect for afternoon tea or coffee. The rich flavors complement a cup beautifully.
  • Summer picnics: It’s a great dessert to bring to summer picnics or barbecues where the fruity flavors can shine.
  • Celebratory occasions: Perfect for birthdays and gatherings, this cake can be the centerpiece of any dessert table.
  • Storage: Wrap leftover pieces tightly and store them in the fridge. The cake will stay fresh for up to two days.
  • Seasonal pairing: This cake works well in spring and summer, making it an ideal dessert for springtime celebrations.

FAQ

Absolutely! Fresh raspberries can be used in place of frozen raspberries in this recipe. However, you may want to adjust the sugar slightly, as fresh berries can vary in sweetness. Just make sure to handle them delicately to avoid crushing them before they are added to the filling.

Leftover Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out. If you need to store it longer, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.

Yes! In fact, making the Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake a day in advance is a great idea. This allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste of the cake. Just keep it refrigerated and it will be perfectly delicious when you are ready to serve it!

This cake can be made suitable for various dietary restrictions with some adjustments. For example, if you need it to be gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free cake mix. Additionally, if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the cream cheese with a lighter whipped topping. Always check the ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Conclusion

The Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake is truly a delightful dessert that balances the sweetness of vanilla with the tartness of raspberries. It’s perfect for any gathering and is sure to impress your guests with both its flavor and beautiful presentation. I encourage you to try making this cake for your next celebration! You won’t be disappointed, and your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake

Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake

Craving something sweet and fruity? This Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake is the ultimate treat! With its fluffy vanilla base, luscious raspberry filling, and creamy topping, it’s a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Try making it tonight, and watch it disappear!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 30 servings
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1 box Vanilla Cake Mix
  • 13.4 oz INSTANT Vanilla Pudding Mix
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 12 oz frozen raspberries
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water divided
  • 4 tbsp cornstarch
  • 16 oz cream cheese softened to room temperature
  • 16 oz frozen whipped topping thawed
  • 2 cups fresh raspberries for decorating

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Oven
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Baking Sheet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Frying Pan
  • Large Pot

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Grab a baking sheet that measures 13x18x1 and lightly coat it with non-stick baking spray. This will ensure that your cake comes out of the pan easily.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Vanilla Cake Mix, INSTANT Vanilla Pudding Mix, eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and sour cream. Beat the mixture on low speed for approximately 30 seconds. Then, increase to medium speed for about 1 and a half to 2 minutes. Don't forget to scrape the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is well mixed.
  3. Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out evenly.
  4. Bake the cake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
  5. While the cake cools, prepare the raspberry filling. In a small saucepan, combine the frozen raspberries, sugar, and half a cup of water. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to help break down the raspberries.
  6. In a separate small dish, mix the remaining half cup of water with the cornstarch. Slowly pour this mixture into the simmering raspberry mix. Continue to cook for a few more minutes until the mixture thickens slightly, then transfer it into a bowl and allow it to cool completely. Once it has cooled, place it in the fridge until it’s chilled.
  7. Now, let’s prepare the cream cheese topping! In a large bowl, add the cream cheese and beat it with a mixer until it’s light and fluffy. Then, add the whipped topping and mix until fully incorporated.
  8. Once the cake has cooled and the raspberry filling has chilled, spread the raspberry mixture evenly over the top of the cake.
  9. Next, dollop the cream cheese mixture over the raspberry filling and carefully spread it into an even layer. This will provide a luscious topping that complements the cake perfectly.
  10. Finally, garnish your Vanilla Raspberry Sheet Cake with fresh raspberries as desired. Keep the cake chilled until you’re ready to serve it.

Notes

  • Tip 1: Cake can be made up to 2 days ahead of time. Cover and store in fridge.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating