Are you looking for a way to make a large cake for a special occasion or event? Look no further than a sheet pan cake. Sheet pan cakes are perfect for feeding a crowd and can be customized with a variety of flavors and decorations. In this article, we will show you how to make a sheet pan for a cake, including the materials you will need, the steps to follow, and some tips for ensuring your cake turns out perfectly.
Materials Needed
Before you can start making your sheet pan cake, you will need to gather a few materials. Here are the things you will need:
- A sheet pan: You can use a jelly roll pan or a large rectangular cake pan. The size of the pan will depend on the size of the cake you want to make.
- Cake mix: You can use a store-bought cake mix or make your own cake from scratch.
- Frosting: You will need frosting to decorate your cake. You can use a store-bought frosting or make your own.
- Parchment paper: You will need parchment paper to line your sheet pan.
- Cooking spray: You will need cooking spray to grease your sheet pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons: You will need measuring cups and spoons to measure out your ingredients.
- Electric mixer: You will need an electric mixer to mix your cake batter.
- Whisk: You will need a whisk to mix your frosting.
- Spatula: You will need a spatula to spread your frosting and decorate your cake.
Preparing the Sheet Pan
Before you can start making your cake, you will need to prepare your sheet pan. Here are the steps to follow:
Greasing the Pan
The first step in preparing your sheet pan is to grease it with cooking spray. This will help prevent your cake from sticking to the pan.
How to Grease the Pan
To grease the pan, simply spray a thin layer of cooking spray onto the bottom and sides of the pan. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the pan.
Lining the Pan with Parchment Paper
The next step is to line the pan with parchment paper. This will help prevent your cake from sticking to the pan and make it easier to remove the cake from the pan.
How to Line the Pan with Parchment Paper
To line the pan with parchment paper, simply cut a piece of parchment paper to fit the bottom of the pan. Place the parchment paper in the pan and smooth out any wrinkles.
Making the Cake
Now that your sheet pan is prepared, you can start making your cake. Here are the steps to follow:
Mixing the Cake Batter
The first step in making your cake is to mix the cake batter. If you are using a store-bought cake mix, simply follow the instructions on the box. If you are making your cake from scratch, you will need to mix together your ingredients in a large bowl.
How to Mix the Cake Batter
To mix the cake batter, simply combine your ingredients in a large bowl and mix until they are well combined. If you are using an electric mixer, mix the batter on low speed until it is smooth.
Pouring the Batter into the Pan
Once your cake batter is mixed, you can pour it into the prepared sheet pan.
How to Pour the Batter into the Pan
To pour the batter into the pan, simply pour it into the center of the pan and smooth out the top. Make sure to spread the batter evenly throughout the pan.
Baking the Cake
Now that your cake batter is in the pan, you can start baking your cake. Here are the steps to follow:
Preheating the Oven
The first step in baking your cake is to preheat your oven. If you are using a store-bought cake mix, simply follow the instructions on the box. If you are making your cake from scratch, you will need to preheat your oven to the temperature specified in your recipe.
How to Preheat the Oven
To preheat the oven, simply set the temperature to the desired level and let it heat up for a few minutes.
Baking the Cake
Once your oven is preheated, you can start baking your cake.
How to Bake the Cake
To bake the cake, simply place the sheet pan in the oven and bake for the recommended amount of time. If you are using a store-bought cake mix, simply follow the instructions on the box. If you are making your cake from scratch, you will need to bake the cake for the amount of time specified in your recipe.
Decorating the Cake
Now that your cake is baked, you can start decorating it. Here are the steps to follow:
Making the Frosting
The first step in decorating your cake is to make the frosting. If you are using a store-bought frosting, simply follow the instructions on the box. If you are making your own frosting, you will need to mix together your ingredients in a large bowl.
How to Make the Frosting
To make the frosting, simply combine your ingredients in a large bowl and mix until they are well combined. If you are using an electric mixer, mix the frosting on low speed until it is smooth.
Spreading the Frosting on the Cake
Once your frosting is made, you can start spreading it on the cake.
How to Spread the Frosting on the Cake
To spread the frosting on the cake, simply place a large dollop of frosting in the center of the cake and spread it outwards towards the edges. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the cake.
Adding Decorations
The final step in decorating your cake is to add any decorations you like. You can use sprinkles, candies, or any other type of decoration you like.
How to Add Decorations
To add decorations, simply place them on top of the cake. You can use a spatula or your fingers to arrange the decorations in a pattern or design.
Tips for Making a Sheet Pan Cake
Here are a few tips for making a sheet pan cake:
- Make sure to grease the pan thoroughly to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Use parchment paper to line the pan and make it easier to remove the cake.
- Don’t overmix the cake batter, as this can cause the cake to be tough.
- Make sure to bake the cake for the recommended amount of time to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Use a high-quality frosting to ensure it tastes good and looks good.
Conclusion
Making a sheet pan cake is a fun and easy way to make a large cake for a special occasion or event. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can make a delicious and beautiful cake that is sure to impress your guests. Remember to grease the pan thoroughly, use parchment paper to line the pan, and don’t overmix the cake batter. With a little practice and patience, you can make a sheet pan cake that is perfect for any occasion.
What is a sheet pan cake, and why should I make one?
A sheet pan cake is a type of cake that is baked in a large, rectangular pan, typically measuring 9×13 inches or larger. This style of cake is perfect for feeding a crowd, as it can be easily cut into bars or squares, making it ideal for parties, potlucks, or special events. Sheet pan cakes are also great for beginners, as they require minimal decorating and can be made with a variety of flavors and mix-ins.
One of the best things about sheet pan cakes is their versatility. You can make them in a variety of flavors, from classic vanilla or chocolate to creative combinations like strawberry or carrot cake. You can also add mix-ins like nuts, dried fruit, or candy pieces to give your cake extra texture and flavor. Plus, sheet pan cakes are easy to transport and serve, making them a great option for events or gatherings where you need to feed a lot of people.
What type of pan do I need to make a sheet pan cake?
To make a sheet pan cake, you’ll need a large, rectangular pan that is at least 9×13 inches in size. You can use a metal or glass pan, but metal pans are generally preferred because they conduct heat well and can help the cake cook evenly. Look for a pan that is heavy-duty and has a non-stick coating to prevent the cake from sticking.
When choosing a pan, make sure it’s large enough to hold the amount of batter you’re making. A general rule of thumb is to use a pan that is at least 2-3 inches deep to prevent the cake from overflowing. You can also use a larger pan, such as an 11×15 inch pan, if you want to make a bigger cake. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
How do I prepare the pan for baking?
Before adding the batter to the pan, you’ll need to prepare it for baking. Start by greasing the pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent the cake from sticking. Then, line the pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang on the sides to make it easy to remove the cake after it’s baked.
Next, dust the pan with flour or cocoa powder, depending on the type of cake you’re making. This will help the cake release from the pan more easily and prevent it from sticking. Finally, tap out any excess flour or cocoa powder to ensure the pan is evenly coated.
What is the best way to mix the batter for a sheet pan cake?
When mixing the batter for a sheet pan cake, it’s best to use a stand mixer or a large bowl and a whisk. Start by creaming together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Next, add the flour, liquid ingredients, and any mix-ins, beating until just combined.
Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense cake. Instead, mix the ingredients just until they come together in a smooth batter. If you’re using a stand mixer, use the paddle attachment to mix the batter, and if you’re mixing by hand, use a whisk or rubber spatula to combine the ingredients.
How long does it take to bake a sheet pan cake?
The baking time for a sheet pan cake will depend on the size of the pan and the type of cake you’re making. Generally, a 9×13 inch cake will take around 25-35 minutes to bake, while a larger cake may take 40-50 minutes or more. To ensure the cake is cooked through, check it after the minimum baking time and then every 5 minutes thereafter until it’s done.
To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is cooked through. If not, continue baking the cake in 5-minute increments until it’s done. You can also check the cake by pressing on the top – if it springs back, it’s cooked through.
How do I cool and store a sheet pan cake?
After the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, use the parchment paper or foil to lift the cake out of the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help the cake cool evenly and prevent it from breaking or cracking.
Once the cake is cool, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to store the cake for longer, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze it for up to 2 months. To thaw the cake, simply remove it from the freezer and let it come to room temperature.
Can I customize a sheet pan cake with different flavors and mix-ins?
One of the best things about sheet pan cakes is their versatility – you can customize them with a wide range of flavors and mix-ins to suit your tastes. Some ideas for mix-ins include nuts, dried fruit, candy pieces, or even cookie dough. You can also add different extracts, such as vanilla or almond, to give the cake extra flavor.
When adding mix-ins, be sure to fold them into the batter gently to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the pan. You can also add a streusel topping or a glaze to the cake after it’s baked for extra flavor and texture. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment and come up with your own unique flavor combinations!