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This Cake for a Crowd is perfect when you want an easy dessert that serves plenty without fuss. It’s a soft, bakery-style white sheet cake topped with a fluffy cream cheese icing that strikes just the right balance of lightness and sweetness. Layer on your favorite fruit pie filling to make it even more special and colorful.
I first tried this recipe when I needed to bring dessert to a big family gathering. Everyone kept coming back for seconds and asked for the recipe afterward. Now it’s my go-to for celebrations because it never fails to impress.
Ingredients
- White cake mix: with all ingredients called for on the box including whole eggs for moisture and structure
- Almond extract: optional but highly recommended to enhance flavor with a delicate nutty note
- Cooking spray or butter: to grease the sheet pan ensuring the cake doesn’t stick
- Cream cheese: at room temperature for a smooth, creamy icing
- Powdered sugar: sifted to avoid lumps in the icing, making it ultra smooth
- Cool Whip: thawed, folded into the icing for a fluffy, light texture that feels homemade
- Your favorite fruit pie filling: such as cherry, blueberry, strawberry, peach, or apple adds a bright, fresh contrast and bursts of flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sift and Prepare The Cake Mix:
- Carefully follow the box instructions for the white cake mix, using whole eggs instead of just whites. This will give your cake better texture and richness. Stir in 2 teaspoons of almond extract if using for a subtle, aromatic hint.
- Grease The Pan Well:
- Generously coat a 15 by 10 inch sheet pan with cooking spray or butter. This helps the cake release easily after baking and keeps the edges from drying out.
- Pour and Bake:
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan, using a spatula to smooth the top. Bake in a preheated 350 degrees Fahrenheit oven for 15 to 17 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center — it should come out clean.
- Cool Completely:
- Allow the cake to cool fully in the pan or on a wire rack before icing. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off.
- Make The Fluffy Cream Cheese Icing:
- Beat cream cheese with powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Gently fold in thawed Cool Whip until fully incorporated but still airy and soft.
- Spread and Decorate:
- Evenly spread the frosting over the cooled cake, smoothing it with an offset spatula. Score the cake lightly to guide even slicing. Before serving, top each square with a spoonful of your chosen fruit pie filling for an irresistible finish.
Storage Tips
Cover leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container and refrigerate. The cream cheese icing helps keep the cake moist and fresh up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze un-iced cake layers and thaw before frosting.
Ingredient Substitutions
If Cool Whip is not your preference, use whipped heavy cream folded gently into the cream cheese frosting for a similar fluffiness. Vanilla extract can replace almond extract but almond adds a unique flavor that really elevates the cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with your favorite fruit pie filling on top or alongside fresh berries for a fresh finish. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty touch if you prefer a simpler look.
Cultural Notes
Sheet cakes are classic American party desserts designed to serve many easily. The addition of fluffy cream cheese frosting is inspired by bakery trends to balance creaminess without heaviness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What pan size is best for this cake?
A rimmed jelly roll sheet pan around 15"x10" works well to bake the cake evenly and provide neat, generous slices.
- How does almond extract affect the cake?
Almond extract adds a delicate, nutty aroma that enhances the white cake’s subtle flavors without overpowering it.
- Can I prepare the icing in advance?
Yes, the cream cheese frosting can be made ahead and stored chilled; gently re-whip it before spreading for best texture.
- What is the best way to get clean cake slices with icing?
Scoring the cake gently before slicing helps keep the icing neat and prevents cracking or messy edges.
- What alternatives can be used for the raspberry sauce topping?
Feel free to use other fruit pie fillings like cherry, blueberry, strawberry, or peach for varied fruity complements.
