Kefir sheet cake is a delightful way to transform this tangy, probiotic-rich drink into a moist and fluffy dessert. Perfect for gatherings, this cake is simple to prepare, yet packed with flavor. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious kefir sheet cake:
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups plain kefir (unsweetened)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting (Optional):
- 1 cup cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp kefir
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare for Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch sheet pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Stir in the melted butter, kefir, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
5. Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the cake cool completely in the pan.
6. Prepare the Frosting (Optional)
- Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Add the kefir and vanilla extract, and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
7. Frost and Serve
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
- Slice into squares or rectangles and serve!
Tips for Success
- Don’t Skip the Kefir: The tangy flavor and acidity of kefir make this cake extra moist and tender. If you don’t have kefir, plain buttermilk is a good substitute.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For even mixing, ensure your eggs and kefir are at room temperature.
- Custom Toppings: Sprinkle chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or fresh berries on top of the frosting for added flair.
Nutritional Facts (Per Slice)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 22g |
Why You’ll Love This Cake
- Moist & Tangy: Kefir adds a unique depth of flavor and keeps the cake soft.
- Versatile: Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or a simple weeknight treat.
- Probiotic Boost: Kefir offers digestive health benefits, so you can indulge with a little less guilt!
Enjoy your kefir sheet cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea. It’s a crowd-pleaser you’ll come back to again and again! Let me know how yours turns out or if you’d like variations of this recipe!
Kefir Sheet Cake Variations and Creative Ideas
Once you’ve mastered the basic kefir sheet cake, the possibilities are endless! You can customize the flavors, toppings, and even the shape of your cake to make it uniquely yours. Here are some fun and creative ideas to take your kefir sheet cake to the next level:
1. Chocolate Kefir Sheet Cake
Give your kefir cake a chocolaty twist for those who love rich, decadent desserts.
Adjustments to the Cake Batter:
- Replace ½ cup of flour with ½ cup of cocoa powder.
- Add ½ cup of chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate to the batter for an extra burst of flavor.
Optional Frosting:
- Use a chocolate ganache made by melting 1 cup of dark chocolate with ½ cup of heavy cream, or simply mix cocoa powder into the cream cheese frosting.
2. Lemon Kefir Sheet Cake
If you’re a fan of citrusy desserts, this version is a must-try!
Adjustments to the Cake Batter:
- Add 2 tbsp of fresh lemon juice and 1 tbsp of lemon zest to the batter.
- Reduce the vanilla extract to ½ tsp and add ½ tsp of almond extract for a subtle flavor boost.
Optional Topping:
- Create a lemon glaze by whisking 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tbsp of lemon juice. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
3. Berry Kefir Sheet Cake
Add fresh or frozen berries to the mix for a fruity burst in every bite.
Adjustments to the Cake Batter:
- Gently fold in 1–2 cups of fresh or frozen berries (blueberries, raspberries, or chopped strawberries) right before pouring the batter into the pan.
Optional Topping:
- Top the cake with whipped cream and a sprinkle of fresh berries for a light and refreshing finish.
4. Spiced Kefir Cake
Perfect for fall or winter, this spiced version brings warmth and comfort.
Adjustments to the Cake Batter:
- Add 1 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp nutmeg, and ¼ tsp cloves or allspice to the dry ingredients.
- Optional: Stir in ½ cup of chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) or raisins.
Optional Topping:
- Frost with a maple cream cheese frosting by adding 2 tbsp of pure maple syrup to the frosting recipe.
5. Marble Kefir Cake
Can’t decide between vanilla and chocolate? Make a stunning marble cake.
Instructions:
- Divide the batter in half after mixing.
- Mix 2 tbsp of cocoa powder into one half.
- Alternate spoonfuls of vanilla and chocolate batter into the sheet pan, then use a knife to swirl the two together for a marbled effect.
- Bake as usual and frost with vanilla or chocolate frosting.
6. Layered Kefir Cake
Turn your sheet cake into a show-stopping layered dessert!
Instructions:
- After baking, cut the cooled cake into even layers (two or three, depending on the height of your sheet cake).
- Spread frosting or a fruit jam of your choice between the layers.
- Frost the entire cake and decorate with piped frosting, fruit, or sprinkles.
7. Gluten-Free Kefir Sheet Cake
For those with dietary restrictions, you can still enjoy this delicious cake.
Substitute:
- Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Add ½ tsp xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already contain it.
8. Carrot Kefir Sheet Cake
A cross between carrot cake and kefir cake? Yes, please!
Adjustments to the Cake Batter:
- Add 1 cup of finely grated carrots and ½ cup of chopped walnuts or raisins to the batter.
- Mix 1 tsp cinnamon and ½ tsp nutmeg with the dry ingredients.
Optional Frosting:
- Top with a classic cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of shredded coconut.
Pro Tips for Customizing Kefir Cake
- Infuse Kefir: Use flavored kefir (like vanilla, strawberry, or honey) instead of plain for an extra flavor dimension.
- Use a Bundt Pan: Pour the batter into a greased Bundt pan for a more elegant presentation.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle chopped nuts, oats, or streusel topping on the batter before baking for added texture.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store the unfrosted cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerated: If frosted, keep the cake in the fridge for up to a week. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices or the entire cake in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Why Kefir is Perfect for Baking
Kefir’s tangy flavor and natural acidity make it an excellent ingredient for cakes. Here’s why:
- Tender Crumb: The acidity reacts with baking soda, resulting in a light and fluffy texture.
- Probiotic Power: Kefir adds a nutritious twist to your dessert, making it slightly healthier than cakes made with other dairy products.
- Flavor Enhancer: The tangy undertones complement sweet and spiced flavors beautifully.
Conclusion
Kefir sheet cake is not just a dessert; it’s a canvas for endless creativity. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or try one of the variations above, this cake is guaranteed to be a hit. Its moist texture, rich flavor, and versatility make it the ultimate treat for any occasion. So grab your apron, pour some kefir, and get baking!
Let me know which variation you’d like to try or if you’d like step-by-step help with one of these recipes!