Cody Casey
Baking a cake at home is a fun activity, but it can be challenging to get it just right. One of the most important considerations is the type of pan to use. A sheet pan can be a versatile option for creating a cake with a unique shape or a sky-high stack of layers. It is also a convenient choice, as it is likely to be the same pan you use for roasting vegetables. However, it is important to be cautious when using a box cake mix with a sheet pan, as the mix may not be sufficient for the larger pan, potentially resulting in a cake that is too thin or a batter that overflows. To avoid these issues, it may be necessary to use multiple boxes of cake mix or adjust the recipe by adding additional ingredients.
Characteristics and Values of making a box cake in a sheet pan
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Pan size | 18x13x1 |
| Number of cake mixes | 2 |
| Batter quantity | 10 cups |
| Batter consistency | Thick |
| Baking time | 12-15 minutes |
| Baking temperature | 350°F |
| Icing | Butter, milk, powdered sugar, almond and vanilla extract |
| Cake shape | Rectangular, heart-shaped, or custom |
| Cake layers | 3 |
| Cake height | 2 inches |
| Cake servings | 40 |
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What You'll Learn
How many boxes of cake mix are needed for an 18x13x1 sheet pan?
Baking a cake in a sheet pan is a great way to make a custom-shaped cake or a sky-high layer cake. The number of boxes of cake mix you will need for an 18x13x1 sheet pan depends on the height of the cake you want to make.
A typical half sheet pan takes 14 cups of batter, but for a 1" high pan, you will need approximately 10 cups of batter. A typical cake mix yields 4-6 cups of batter, so you would need 2 boxes of cake mix for an 18x13x1 sheet pan that is 1" high.
If you want a taller cake, you can use 1.5 boxes of cake mix in your 18x13x1 sheet pan, which will give you a cake that rises just over 1/4" above the edge of the pan.
It is important to note that a bigger volume of batter will likely require a longer baking time. You can start checking the cake for doneness with a toothpick at the 30-40 minute mark and adjust the baking time as needed.
Additionally, you can use parchment paper as a guide to cut out any desired shape from the sheet cake, such as circles for a round layer cake or a heart shape for a more whimsical creation.
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How to adjust cooking times for an 8x11 sheet pan?
When adjusting the cooking time for an 8x11 sheet pan, it's important to consider the depth of the batter and the volume of the pan. Here are some tips to help you adjust the cooking time accordingly:
Firstly, calculate the area of your pan by multiplying its length and width. In this case, an 8x11 pan has an area of 88 square inches. This area will determine the amount of batter needed and the subsequent adjustments to cooking time.
If you're using a box cake mix, refer to the instructions on the box to see what size pans are recommended. Typically, a cake mix yields two 8" to 9" cakes, and for an 8x11 sheet pan, you would need to increase the recipe by 1.5 times to ensure the batter is at the desired depth.
Now, let's consider the cooking time. As a general rule, a larger volume of batter will require a longer cooking time. However, there is no exact formula for adjusting cooking times, so you'll need to rely on your senses and check for signs of doneness. These signs may include the cake pulling away from the sides of the pan or springing back when touched lightly.
It's recommended to start checking for doneness at least 10 minutes before the original recipe's specified time. For example, if the recipe calls for a baking time of 30 minutes, start checking at the 20-minute mark. This is because a thinner cake, like the one in an 8x11 sheet pan, will bake more quickly.
Additionally, if you're using a recipe that calls for a smaller pan, such as an 8x8 pan, and you want to use an 8x11 sheet pan for a thinner cake, you can reduce the baking time by 15-25% without adjusting the oven temperature.
Remember, these adjustments may vary depending on your oven and the specific recipe you're using, so always keep an eye on your cake to avoid over or under-baking.
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What are some tips for making a layer cake in a sheet pan?
Making a layer cake in a sheet pan is a great way to save storage space and create a tall, narrow cake with a custom shape. Here are some tips for making a layer cake in a sheet pan:
Choose the Right Pan
Select a sheet pan that is the appropriate size for your desired cake size. If you want a taller cake, choose a pan with higher sides, such as a 9 x 13 x 2 inch pan. For a shorter cake, an 18 x 13 x 1 inch half-sheet pan can be a good option.
Prepare the Pan
Grease your sheet pan and line it with parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove the cake from the pan and create a smooth surface.
Adjust the Cake Mix
Depending on the size of your pan, you may need to adjust the amount of cake mix you use. A typical half-sheet pan can hold up to 10 cups of batter, so you may need two boxes of cake mix to ensure the cake is not too thin. You can also try adding extra ingredients to the mix, such as flour, sugar, baking powder, and an extra egg, to increase the volume.
Spread the Batter Evenly
Use an offset spatula or a similar tool to spread the batter evenly in the pan. This will help achieve a level surface and prevent uneven baking and overcooked edges.
Check for Doneness Early
Sheet pan cakes tend to bake more quickly due to their thinner shape. Start checking for doneness about 10 minutes before the bake time listed in the recipe. The cake is done when it springs back when touched lightly, and a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
Cut Out Layers
Once the cake has cooled, use a piece of parchment paper or cardboard as a guide to cut out your desired cake shape. For example, you can cut out three 6-inch or 8-inch circles for a round layer cake. Use a sharp knife to cut the layers and trim any excess cake.
By following these tips, you can successfully bake and assemble a layer cake using a sheet pan, allowing you to create a beautiful and unique dessert.
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How to make a custom-shaped cake using a sheet pan?
Baking a cake in a sheet pan is a great way to make a custom-shaped cake. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Prepare the pan
First, you need to prepare your sheet pan. The standard half-sheet pan size is 18-by-13 inches and 1-inch high on the sides. Grease the pan with butter, cooking spray, or vegetable oil, and line it with parchment paper cut to fit the pan.
Prepare the batter
You can use a box cake mix or make your batter from scratch. If using a box mix, note that a typical cake mix yields 4-6 cups of batter, so you may need more than one box for your sheet pan. If making your batter, you may need to adjust the recipe to match the volume of your pan. A typical half-sheet pan takes about 10 to 14 cups of batter.
Bake the cake
Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan and spread it into an even layer with an offset spatula. Bake the cake according to the recipe instructions, but note that cakes baked in sheet pans tend to be thinner and may bake more quickly, so keep an eye on it.
Cut and assemble your custom-shaped cake
Once your cake is baked and cooled, it's time to cut it into your desired shape. Use a piece of parchment paper or cardboard in the shape you want (e.g., an 8-inch circle or a heart) as a guide. Place it on the cake and use a sharp knife to cut out your shape. You can also cut the cake into multiple layers of different shapes and sizes to create a custom layered cake. For example, you can cut three 6-inch or 8-inch circles from an 18-by-13-inch sheet pan.
Don't worry about cake scraps; you can use them for decorating, snacking, or making cake truffles or crumbs for garnishes.
And that's it! You now have a custom-shaped cake baked in a sheet pan. Enjoy decorating and serving your unique creation!
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What are some ways to use up leftover cake scraps?
Baking a cake in a sheet pan can often result in leftover cake scraps. Here are some ways to use them up:
Cake pops, balls, or truffles
Mix the cake scraps in a stand mixer or food processor and roll them into balls. You can dip them in melted chocolate and decorate with sprinkles, edible glitter, or any other toppings of your choice.
Cake cups
Create your own cake cups by layering leftover cake with frosting and fillings of your choice. You can also add graham crackers and fresh fruit for extra texture.
Cake crumb pie crust
Instead of throwing away cake scraps, crumble them into a bowl and add a splash of rum or any other liquid of your choice. Mix until you have a sticky mass, then roll it out and use it as a pie crust.
Cake crumbs as decoration
Cake crumbs can be used as a decorative garnish on the outside or top of a cake. You can also use them as a moisture barrier beneath fruit in pies.
Trifle
Leftover cake scraps can be cut into circles or layers and combined with whipped cream and other toppings to create a trifle.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can make a box cake in a sheet pan. Grease the sheet pan and line it with parchment. Pour in the batter and spread it into an even layer using an offset spatula.
A typical half sheet pan takes 14 cups of batter, but the amount of batter depends on the size of your pan. A typical cake mix makes 4-6 cups of batter.
You'll start to smell the cake, and it will spring back when touched lightly. You can also do a toothpick test. Insert a toothpick into the centre of the cake, and if it comes out clean, the cake is done.
Use a piece of parchment as a guide. Place it on the cake and use a sharp knife to cut out your layers. You can cut out any shape you want, including circles, rectangles, squares, or even a heart.
