Sheet cakes are a beloved classic for their simplicity and ease of serving, and when infused with the tangy richness of kefir, they become a delightful treat that’s both moist and flavorful. Kefir sheet cake offers a unique spin on your typical sheet cake by incorporating this cultured dairy product, which not only enhances the texture but also adds a subtle depth of flavor thanks to its natural fermentation.
Whether you’re baking for a casual gathering or just craving a comforting dessert to enjoy with your afternoon tea, this recipe card will guide you through making a perfectly tender, slightly tangy cake that’s sure to impress.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize with different frostings or mix-ins to suit your taste.
In this post, we’ll explore why kefir makes such a fantastic addition to your baking, list out all the ingredients and equipment you’ll need, and share detailed step-by-step instructions. We’ll also provide handy tips, variations, nutritional information, and serving ideas to help you get the most out of this recipe.
Ready to bake a cake that’s truly special? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Kefir sheet cake is a fantastic way to bring something a bit different to your dessert table. Here’s why:
- Moist and tender crumb: Kefir’s natural acidity tenderizes the gluten in the flour, resulting in a cake that’s incredibly soft and moist.
- Subtle tanginess: Unlike regular buttermilk or yogurt, kefir adds a gentle tang that balances the sweetness beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Simple and quick: This recipe uses everyday ingredients and straightforward steps, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Great for large gatherings: The sheet cake format makes it easy to serve many people, ideal for parties or potlucks.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe with your favorite frostings, nuts, or fruit additions.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups (312g) |
Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
Salt | ½ teaspoon |
Unsalted butter, softened | ¾ cup (170g) |
Granulated sugar | 1 ¾ cups (350g) |
Large eggs | 3 |
Kefir | 1 cup (240ml) |
Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons |
Optional mix-ins (e.g., chopped nuts, chocolate chips) | ½ cup (75g) |
Equipment
- 9×13 inch sheet pan or similar baking dish
- Mixing bowls – one large and one medium
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula for folding
- Cooling rack
- Oven preheated to 350°F (175°C)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch sheet pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and kefir: Add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the kefir in two additions (dry – kefir – dry – kefir – dry), starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed or fold gently with a spatula to avoid overmixing.
- Fold in optional mix-ins: If using nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit, gently fold them into the batter now.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan: Spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes before transferring it out to cool completely.
- Frost or serve as desired: Once cooled, frost with your favorite frosting or dust with powdered sugar.
Tips & Variations
For an extra moist cake, try brushing the top with a simple syrup made of equal parts sugar and water while it’s still warm.
- Flavor twists: Add lemon zest or orange zest to the batter for a citrusy note that pairs beautifully with kefir.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend, but be sure to check for xanthan gum in the blend for structure.
- Frosting ideas: Cream cheese frosting, classic buttercream, or a simple dusting of cinnamon sugar all complement the tang of kefir nicely.
- Make it vegan: Use a plant-based kefir alternative, vegan butter, and egg replacers to transform this into a vegan-friendly dessert.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving (1 slice) |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 45g |
Protein | 5g |
Fat | 12g |
Saturated Fat | 7g |
Sugar | 28g |
Fiber | 1g |
Sodium | 210mg |
Serving Suggestions
This kefir sheet cake is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience:
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combo.
- Top slices with fresh berries or a berry compote to add a burst of freshness.
- Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for a subtle zing.
- Accompany the cake with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
Conclusion
Creating a kefir sheet cake is a rewarding baking adventure that results in a tender, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dessert. The unique tang of kefir adds a delightful twist to the traditional sheet cake, making it stand out without complicating the process.
Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just to enjoy some homemade sweetness yourself, this recipe offers a reliable and delicious option that’s easy to prepare.
As you explore the world of baking with kefir, don’t hesitate to experiment with different frostings and mix-ins to make the cake truly your own. For more inspiring recipes, check out our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious, or dive into wholesome meals like Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious.
If you love easy, nutritious meals, you might also enjoy Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping.
Happy baking, and enjoy every bite of your kefir sheet cake!
📖 Recipe Card: Kefir Sheet Cake
Description: A moist and tender sheet cake made with kefir for a subtle tang and extra fluffiness. Perfect for any occasion and easy to prepare.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup plain kefir
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons kefir (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat eggs, then add kefir, oil, vanilla, and lemon juice; mix well.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until just blended.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Mix powdered sugar and kefir to make glaze; drizzle over cooled cake.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 | Protein: 4g | Fat: 12g | Carbs: 38g
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