How to Make White Texas Sheet Cake Perfectly
If you’re searching for a rich, moist, and fluffy dessert that never fails to impress, the White Texas Sheet Cake is your new best friend in the kitchen. This classic Southern delight transforms the traditional Texas sheet cake into a lighter, yet indulgently creamy experience. With its luscious vanilla-infused layers and smooth frosting, the White Texas Sheet Cake creates an unforgettable treat perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and learn how to bake the perfect White Texas Sheet Cake that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortlessly Moist Texture: The combination of buttermilk and oil keeps the cake tender without feeling heavy.
- Delightfully Fluffy: Whipping egg whites separately ensures an airy crumb that melts in your mouth.
- Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples come together to create a dessert that tastes far more complex than it actually is.
- Versatile Flavor Profile: The mild vanilla base pairs beautifully with various frostings and toppings.
- Family-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for kids or grown-ups, this cake always wins hearts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this White Texas Sheet Cake lies not only in its method but also in its simplicity. Each ingredient serves a specific purpose, from moistening the crumb to adding that signature creamy sweetness, ensuring the perfect balance that defines this cake.
- All-purpose Flour: The foundation of the cake, providing structure while keeping it tender.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leavening agents work together to give the cake a light and fluffy lift.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the batter evenly, helping to lock in moisture.
- Butter: Adds richness and enhances flavor, lending a beautiful golden color.
- Buttermilk: Reacts with baking soda to tenderize the crumb and add subtle tanginess.
- Egg Whites: Whipped separately to create that airy texture, elevating the cake’s fluffiness.
- Vanilla Extract: Brings warmth and depth, turning simple ingredients into an irresistible treat.
- Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and extra moisture, making the cake soft yet sturdy.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- Powdered Sugar: For the frosting, delivering a smooth and creamy finish.
- Heavy Cream or Milk: Adjusts the consistency of the frosting, ensuring it spreads beautifully.
Variations for White Texas Sheet Cake
One of the best parts about the White Texas Sheet Cake recipe is how easy it is to adapt. Whether you’re aiming for a healthier spin, catering to dietary restrictions, or just experimenting with flavors, these creative twists will keep the cake exciting.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a safe and delicious alternative.
- Low-Sugar Version: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or reduce sugar quantities without sacrificing moisture.
- Coconut Infusion: Add shredded coconut to the batter or sprinkle on top of the frosting for added texture.
- Almond Flavor: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract for a nutty aroma and taste.
- Frosting Variations: Try cream cheese frosting or a light whipped frosting in place of the classic buttercream.
How to Make White Texas Sheet Cake
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 13×18-inch sheet pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and achieve even baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed, promoting a consistent rise.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Beat the softened butter and granulated sugar in a separate bowl until fluffy and pale. This process aerates the fat, contributing to the cake’s soft texture.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Gradually mix in the buttermilk, sour cream, and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture until smooth and combined. The acidity in buttermilk helps to tenderize the gluten for a delicate crumb.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mix, stirring just until combined. Overmixing can cause a dense texture, so keep it gentle.
Step 6: Whip Egg Whites
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites to stiff peaks. Carefully fold them into the batter to incorporate air and achieve the signature fluffiness of a White Texas Sheet Cake.
Step 7: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared sheet pan, spread evenly, and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Prepare the Frosting
While the cake cools slightly, mix powdered sugar with heavy cream and a touch of vanilla extract until smooth and spreadable. Adjust thickness as needed for optimal coverage.
Step 9: Frost the Cake
Once the cake is warm but not hot, spread the frosting generously over the top. This helps the frosting settle perfectly without melting away.
Pro Tips for Making White Texas Sheet Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure butter, sour cream, and egg whites are at room temperature for smoother batter integration.
- Don’t Overmix: Fold in dry ingredients and egg whites gently to maintain lightness and avoid a tough crumb.
- Test Doneness Early: Oven temperatures vary, so start checking for doneness at 25 minutes to prevent overbaking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh baking powder and soda ensure proper rising and texture.
- Cool Before Frosting: Wait until the cake is slightly cooled to prevent the frosting from sliding off.
How to Serve White Texas Sheet Cake
Garnishes
Enhance your cake’s presentation by adding toasted nuts, fresh berries, or a light dusting of powdered sugar, which brings a lovely visual contrast and texture.
Side Dishes
Pair this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, effectively balancing its richness with creamy, cool elements.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in squares with colorful sprinkles for parties or dress it up with edible flowers for more formal gatherings—a White Texas Sheet Cake adapts beautifully to any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate to maintain freshness for up to five days.
Freezing
The White Texas Sheet Cake freezes well; wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Warm slices gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back the softness and enhance the flavors without drying out the cake.
FAQs
Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?
While using whole eggs will still give you a tasty cake, whipped egg whites are key to achieving the fluffy, light texture that distinguishes a White Texas Sheet Cake.
Is the White Texas Sheet Cake gluten-free?
This version uses traditional all-purpose flour, which contains gluten, but you can substitute it with gluten-free flour blends for a gluten-free adaptation.
How long does the cake stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, the cake remains fresh for up to five days in the refrigerator and up to three months in the freezer.
Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Yes, the frosting can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Bring it to room temperature and whisk before spreading on the cake.
What’s the best way to ensure the cake stays moist?
Using buttermilk and sour cream is essential for moisture, and be careful not to overbake, which can dry out the cake.
Final Thoughts
White Texas Sheet Cake is a timeless dessert that brings warmth and sweetness to any table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or indulging on a cozy night at home, this recipe promises a moist, fluffy, and beautifully rich cake every single time. Grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to delight your family and friends with this Southern classic that never goes out of style.
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White Texas Sheet Cake
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free flour blend)
Description
White Texas Sheet Cake is a rich, moist, and fluffy Southern dessert featuring vanilla-infused layers and a smooth creamy frosting. This lighter twist on the classic Texas sheet cake uses buttermilk, whipped egg whites, and sour cream to achieve its signature tender crumb and airy texture. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or casual treats, it delivers a versatile flavor that pairs beautifully with various frostings and toppings.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar (can reduce or substitute with erythritol for low-sugar version)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup sour cream, at room temperature
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract (or almond extract for variation)
- 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
Frosting Ingredients
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional toppings: toasted nuts, shredded coconut, fresh berries, colorful sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan and Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 13×18-inch sheet pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents for a consistent rise.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy and pale, aerating the fat to contribute to the cake’s soft texture.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Gradually mix in the buttermilk, sour cream, and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture until smooth and well combined. The acidity in buttermilk helps tenderize the gluten, resulting in a delicate crumb.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense texture.
- Whip Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites to stiff peaks. Carefully fold them into the batter to incorporate air and achieve the cake’s signature fluffiness.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Start checking at 25 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the cake cools slightly, mix powdered sugar with heavy cream (or milk) and vanilla extract until smooth and spreadable. Adjust thickness as needed for optimal coverage.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake is warm but not hot, spread the frosting generously over the top. This allows the frosting to settle perfectly without melting away.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter, sour cream, and egg whites for smoother batter integration.
- Fold in dry ingredients and egg whites gently to maintain lightness and avoid a tough crumb.
- Test doneness starting at 25 minutes due to varying oven temperatures.
- Use fresh baking powder and baking soda for proper rising and texture.
- Allow cake to cool slightly before frosting to prevent frosting from sliding off.
- Leftover cake can be stored at room temperature for two days or refrigerated for up to five days in an airtight container.
- The cake freezes well when wrapped tightly; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Reheat slices gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore softness.
- For gluten-free variations, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
- For low-sugar options, reduce sugar or use sugar substitutes like erythritol without compromising moisture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0.3g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: White Texas Sheet Cake, Southern dessert, vanilla sheet cake, moist cake, fluffy cake, buttermilk cake, light frosting, gluten-free cake option