Sheet cake is a beloved dessert known for its simple, moist texture and versatility. When baked in a large pan, it's easy to serve a crowd and is often topped with frosting or icing, making it a festive treat for various occasions. However, while it's a delightful dessert, sheet cake tends to be high in sugar and fat due to the frosting and cake batter, so it's best enjoyed in moderation. Excessive consumption of cake can contribute to weight gain, blood sugar spikes, and other health concerns. On the positive side, ingredients like eggs and milk in the cake provide protein and calcium, but these are often overshadowed by the sugar and fat content. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, consider reducing sugar and opting for a lighter frosting or using whole-grain flour for added nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup milk
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Healthy Alternatives for Ingredients
To make your sheet cake a bit healthier, you can replace some ingredients with better alternatives. For example:
- Butter Substitute: Instead of using regular unsalted butter, try substituting it with coconut oil or plant-based butter. These alternatives contain healthier fats and lower amounts of saturated fat, making the cake a little lighter and potentially more heart-healthy. Coconut oil also adds a subtle, tropical flavor that pairs well with many other ingredients.
Method:
- Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease and flour a large baking sheet or a 9x13-inch pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick while baking.
- Prepare dry ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly mixed and will help create a uniform texture in the cake.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate large bowl, beat together the butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract using an electric mixer or whisk until well combined. The mixture should be smooth, creamy, and slightly fluffy.
- Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently after each addition until a smooth batter forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this could affect the texture of the cake.
- Stir in boiling water: Once the batter is smooth, slowly stir in the boiling water. The batter will become thin, but this is normal and will result in a moist and tender cake once baked.
- Pour the batter into the pan: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
- Cool the cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan. Cooling the cake thoroughly will help the frosting set better and prevent it from melting.
- Prepare the frosting: While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the butter and milk until smooth and well-combined. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Continue to beat the frosting until it becomes light, fluffy, and spreadable.
- Frost the cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the prepared frosting evenly over the top using a spatula. Be sure to cover the entire surface for a beautiful finish.
- Serve and enjoy: Once the frosting is spread evenly, slice your cake into squares or rectangles and serve. Enjoy your homemade sheet cake!
Storage Tips: Keeping Your Cake Fresh
Proper storage ensures your sheet cake remains fresh for longer periods. Here's how to store it effectively:
- Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the cake within a few days, store it at room temperature in an airtight container. This will keep the cake moist without it becoming too dry.
- Refrigeration: For longer shelf life, place the cake in the refrigerator. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. Refrigerated cake can last for up to a week.
- Freezing: If you want to store the cake for an even longer period, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap the cake slices individually or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze. The cake can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Just be sure to thaw it at room temperature before serving.
Customization Ideas: Adding Your Own Touch
Customization can make your sheet cake even more exciting. Here are a few ideas:
- Add Fruits: For a fresh twist, try adding fruits such as berries, bananas, or chopped apples to the batter. They will not only add a burst of flavor but also provide some nutritional value.
- Add Nuts or Chocolate: You can enhance the flavor with chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, or even some chocolate chips. These additions bring both texture and a richer taste to your cake.
Note:
Ingredient Descriptions and Their Effects on Cake Texture and Flavor
Understanding how each ingredient affects the texture and flavor of your cake can help you make the perfect sheet cake. Here’s a deeper dive into the key ingredients:
- Flour: The all-purpose flour gives the cake its structure. It provides a light, fluffy texture. If you prefer a denser and more nutritious cake, you can substitute part or all of the flour with whole wheat flour, which adds more fiber and nutrients but may slightly alter the texture.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and moisture to the cake. However, it contributes a significant amount of calories and increases the glycemic index. You can reduce the sugar content by replacing some of the sugar with Stevia, Erythritol, or Monk Fruit Sweetener, which are natural, low-calorie sweeteners.
- Eggs: Eggs provide structure and moisture while also adding richness to the cake. If you want to make the cake egg-free, you can substitute eggs with ingredients like mashed bananas or flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water can replace one egg).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?
- You can reduce the sugar by using healthier alternatives like Stevia, Erythritol, or Monk Fruit Sweetener. Alternatively, you can simply cut down on the amount of sugar you use without substituting, but this may change the texture and sweetness level of the cake.
Can I make this cake without eggs?
- Yes, you can substitute eggs with mashed bananas, applesauce, or flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water replaces 1 egg). These ingredients will maintain the moisture and structure of the cake.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
- Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for some or all of the all-purpose flour. Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients, but keep in mind that it can make the cake denser and slightly change the texture. You may want to combine whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour for the best result.
What are the best types of frosting to use with this cake?
- For a healthier option, you can make frosting using plant-based butter or even a frosting made with Greek yogurt for a tangy, protein-packed version. If you want to reduce sugar, try making sugar-free frosting using a natural sweetener like Stevia or Monk Fruit Sweetener.
Nutritional values and benefits
1. 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- Calories: 910
- Carbohydrates: 190g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 2g
- Fiber: 6g
- Vitamins: Small amounts of iron and B-vitamins
Nutritional Benefit:All-purpose flour is a staple ingredient that provides carbohydrates for energy. The small amount of fiber aids digestion, while iron and B-vitamins play roles in red blood cell production and energy metabolism.
2. 2 cups granulated sugar
- Calories: 774
- Carbohydrates: 200g
- Sugars: 200g
Nutritional Benefit:Sugar is a quick source of energy, providing glucose that the body uses for immediate fuel. However, it offers no significant vitamins or minerals and should be consumed in moderation to avoid negative health effects such as weight gain and blood sugar spikes.
3. 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Sodium: 1,200mg
Nutritional Benefit:Baking powder is used as a leavening agent to help the cake rise. It does not contribute significant calories or nutrients but is essential for achieving the light, fluffy texture of the cake.
4. 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Sodium: 1,260mg
Nutritional Benefit:Baking soda also acts as a leavening agent. While it doesn’t provide nutrients, it is necessary for the proper texture and consistency of the cake, helping to create air bubbles in the batter.
5. 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Calories: 0
- Sodium: 1,150mg
Nutritional Benefit:Salt enhances the flavor and balance of the ingredients. Though it doesn’t provide any calories or essential nutrients, it’s important in the overall taste of the cake. However, excessive salt intake should be avoided.
6. 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- Calories: 1,600
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fat: 180g
- Saturated Fat: 115g
- Cholesterol: 300mg
- Vitamins: Vitamin A
Nutritional Benefit:Butter is rich in fat and provides a creamy texture. It also supplies essential fatty acids and vitamin A. However, due to its high saturated fat content, it should be consumed in moderation to avoid health risks like heart disease.
7. 1 cup milk
- Calories: 150
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 8g
- Vitamins: Vitamin D, Calcium
Nutritional Benefit:Milk is an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone health. It also provides protein and some fat, supporting muscle function and overall nutrition.
8. 4 large eggs
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 24g
- Vitamins: Vitamin A, Vitamin D, B-vitamins
Nutritional Benefit:Eggs are a high-quality protein source and provide essential nutrients like vitamin A and D, which support vision, immune health, and bone health. However, they also contain cholesterol, so moderation is key.
9. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Calories: 12
- Carbohydrates: 0.5g
- Sugars: 0.5g
Nutritional Benefit:Vanilla extract is used for flavoring. While it adds minimal calories, it contributes antioxidants, which can help combat oxidative stress, and enhances the overall taste experience.
10. 1 cup boiling water
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0g
Nutritional Benefit:Water is vital for hydration and helps the batter reach the proper consistency. It has no calories or nutrients but plays a crucial role in the recipe by helping dissolve ingredients and ensuring the proper texture.
For the Frosting:
11. 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- Calories: 800
- Fat: 90g
- Saturated Fat: 60g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Vitamins: Vitamin A
Nutritional Benefit:Similar to the cake batter, the butter in the frosting provides richness and texture. However, the high saturated fat content means it should be enjoyed in moderation.
12. 1/4 cup milk
- Calories: 40
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 2g
- Vitamins: Calcium, Vitamin D
Nutritional Benefit:Like the milk in the cake, the milk in the frosting helps add creaminess and provides some calcium and vitamin D, which support bone health.
13. 3 cups powdered sugar
- Calories: 1,440
- Carbohydrates: 360g
- Sugars: 360g
Nutritional Benefit:Powdered sugar is used to sweeten the frosting. It adds sweetness and texture but provides little to no nutritional value beyond empty calories.
14. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Calories: 12
- Carbohydrates: 0.5g
- Sugars: 0.5g
Nutritional Benefit:Like in the cake, vanilla extract in the frosting adds flavor and offers a small amount of antioxidants.
15. Pinch of salt
- Calories: 0
- Sodium: 200mg
Nutritional Benefit:Salt helps balance the sweetness of the frosting and enhance the overall flavor. Like in the cake, it has no nutritional value but plays a significant role in taste.
Overall Nutritional Summary:
Sheet cake, with its rich ingredients like butter, sugar, and flour, provides a high-calorie, energy-dense dessert. The frosting, made primarily of butter and powdered sugar, adds additional calories and fat. While milk and eggs offer some essential nutrients like protein, calcium, and vitamins, the cake and frosting are still high in sugar and fat. It's a delicious treat best enjoyed in moderation.
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