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Kefir Sheet Cake
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Easy Kefir Sheet Cake Recipe

This kefir sheet cake is a moist, tangy, and flavorful dessert that is perfect for any occasion. It uses the natural creaminess and slight tartness of kefir to create a soft crumb and pairs it with a luscious frosting. Easy to make and budget-friendly, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or parties.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword Budget-Friendly, Easy Dessert, Kefir Sheet Cake, Moist, Tangy
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 14 servings
Calories 280kcal
Cost $10–15

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Whisk or electric mixer
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 9x13-inch sheet cake pan
  • Cooling rack

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups All-purpose flour (sifted for a lighter texture)
  • 1 ½ tsp Baking powder
  • 1 tsp Baking soda
  • ½ tsp Salt
  • ½ cup Unsalted butter (softened, room temperature)
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar
  • ½ cup Brown sugar (lightly packed for added moisture)
  • 2 Large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup Plain kefir (use full-fat or low-fat, depending on preference)

For the Frosting (Optional Cream Cheese Frosting):

  • 8 ounces Cream cheese (softened)
  • ½ cup Unsalted butter (softened)
  • 2 cups Powdered sugar (sifted to avoid lumps)
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract
  • 1–2 tbsp Kefir (for tanginess and spreadable consistency)

Optional Toppings:

  • Fresh berries (e.g., blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries)
  • Chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans)
  • Shredded coconut

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease a 9x13-inch sheet cake pan with butter or non-stick spray, then dust lightly with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

  • In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

  • In a large mixing bowl, use a whisk or an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

  • Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  • Mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Incorporate Kefir

  • Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and the kefir to the wet mixture. Start with ⅓ of the dry ingredients, mix until just combined, then add ½ of the kefir. Repeat this process until everything is incorporated, being careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

  • Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool the Cake

  • Remove the cake from the oven and place the pan on a cooling rack. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.

Notes

  • Kefir Substitutions: If kefir is unavailable, you can use buttermilk or a mixture of ¾ cup plain yogurt and ¼ cup milk.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Ensure other ingredients, like baking powder, are certified gluten-free.
  • Storing the Cake: Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
  • Make It Ahead: The unfrosted cake can be baked a day in advance and stored at room temperature, covered tightly. Frost just before serving.