Name: Creme Brûlée Sheet Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 3 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups flour; 2 cups sugar; ½ cup butter; ½ cup shortening; 1 cup water; ½ cup buttermilk; ½ teaspoon baking soda; 2 eggs; 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped; 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste; 1 large box vanilla instant pudding mix; 2 cups heavy cream; ½ cup half and half; 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped; 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste; ½ cup very fine sugar (superfine sugar or caster sugar)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 11 reviews

If you are looking for a dessert that combines nostalgic comfort with a sophisticated flair, this Creme Brûlée Sheet Cake Recipe is going to blow your mind and delight your taste buds. Imagine a moist vanilla bean cake layered with a lusciously creamy vanilla custard filling, all crowned with a perfectly caramelized, crackling sugar shell that melts in your mouth. This cake offers the luxurious flavor of classic crème brûlée but in an easy-to-share sheet cake format—perfect for family gatherings or special occasions where you want to impress without the fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with smooth and creamy pale yellow batter, with soft folds and swirls visible on the surface. A white spatula with some batter on it rests inside the bowl, angled slightly downward and touching the batter. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, with a wooden board, a white cloth, and white ceramic containers with silver rims placed neatly in the background. The overall scene is bright and clean, showing a fresh moment in baking preparation. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every single ingredient in this Creme Brûlée Sheet Cake Recipe plays an essential role. From the richness of the butter and shortening creating that tender crumb, to the burst of vanilla bean flavor that makes the cake truly special, each component is simple but crucial to achieving the perfect balance of softness, creaminess, and that iconic caramelized topping.

2 cups flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb to the cake base.
2 cups sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning the cake.
½ cup butter: Brings rich flavor and moistness to the cake.
½ cup shortening: Works with butter to create a soft texture and longer-lasting freshness.
1 cup water: Hydrates the dry ingredients for proper consistency.
½ cup buttermilk: Adds tanginess and reacts with baking soda to help the cake rise.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Leavens the cake for lightness.
2 eggs: Bind ingredients and add richness.
1 vanilla bean, split and scraped: Offers intense, authentic vanilla flavor throughout the cake.
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste: Boosts the vanilla aroma and mimics the look of vanilla seeds.
1 large box vanilla instant pudding: Creates the creamy custard filling with minimal effort.
2 cups heavy cream: Whipped to add lightness and richness to the filling.
½ cup half and half: Balances creaminess in the filling mixture.
½ cup very fine sugar for the topping: Essential for achieving that perfect caramelized, crackly sugar shell on top.

How to Make Creme Brûlée Sheet Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F and greasing a 15x10x1 inch baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then gather your dry ingredients—flour and sugar—in a large mixing bowl, stirring them together so they’re perfectly combined and ready to meet the liquids.

Step 2: Combine Butter, Water, and Shortening

In a medium saucepan, bring together the butter, water, and shortening, heating gently until it reaches a rolling boil. This step melts the fats and starts the transformation that will give your cake a tender, moist crumb. Once it boils, quickly add your flour and sugar mixture, stirring thoroughly so no dry bits remain.

Step 3: Add the Rest of the Ingredients

Now, with your batter forming a thick base, add the buttermilk first—this adds moisture and tenderness. Next goes the baking soda, which will help the cake rise perfectly. Follow with the eggs, beaten or whole, one at a time, mixing each in completely. Finally, blend in the scraped seeds from the vanilla bean and the vanilla bean paste to infuse the batter with that exquisite vanilla essence.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly. Slide it into the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. The cake will rise, develop a golden crust, and start to develop its signature texture. Once done, pull it out and let it cool completely; this is the perfect time to prepare your custard filling.

Step 5: Make the Custard Filling

Create the luscious filling by mixing your vanilla instant pudding, heavy cream, half and half, vanilla bean seeds, and vanilla bean paste in a medium bowl. Beat the mixture on high speed for a minute or so until it thickens but remains smooth and creamy—this filling is what takes the cake from delicious to unforgettable.

Step 6: Layer and Chill

Spread the creamy filling generously over your cooled cake sheet, smoothing it out evenly. Pop the cake into the refrigerator for at least an hour so the filling can set and the flavors meld perfectly.

Step 7: Caramelize the Sugar Topping

Sprinkle the top of your chilled custard layer with the very fine sugar—this particular sugar is crucial for achieving that beautifully crackling caramelized crust. Place the cake under a broiler and watch carefully as the sugar melts, bubbles, and turns a gorgeous golden brown. Don’t walk away because it can quickly go from perfect to burnt.

Step 8: Final Chill

After caramelizing, refrigerate the cake uncovered for an additional two hours. This final chill helps the sugar shell harden just right while keeping the custard cool and refreshing underneath. Then you are ready to serve this show-stopping dessert!

How to Serve Creme Brûlée Sheet Cake Recipe

A rectangular baked dessert in a metal pan resting on a white marbled surface, featuring two visible layers: the bottom is a light golden, slightly crumbly cake base, and the top is a thick, creamy yellow custard layer with a darker, caramelized brown surface showing irregular spots and streaks. A section has been removed from one corner, revealing the clear separation between the soft custard and the firm cake underneath with some crumbs scattered inside the pan. The edges of the pan show bits of baked custard clinging to the sides. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

When serving the Creme Brûlée Sheet Cake Recipe, simple garnishes let its beauty and flavor shine. A few fresh berries like raspberries or sliced strawberries add a burst of color and brightness. If you’re feeling fancy, a small edible flower or a light dusting of powdered sugar around the plate complements the elegance of the cake.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a light cup of coffee or a delicate herbal tea. If you want to turn it into a semi-formal dessert course, serve a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side for extra indulgence without overpowering the custard flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation can elevate the experience of this Creme Brûlée Sheet Cake Recipe. Try cutting the cake into petite squares and arranging them on a chilled serving tray for buffet-style entertaining. For an extra touch, torch the sugar topping tableside for an interactive dessert moment that guests will remember and adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover slices of the Creme Brûlée Sheet Cake Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain the integrity of the custard and crunchy topping. It will remain delicious for up to three days, making it perfect for savoring over multiple occasions.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake, but be cautious because the delicate caramelized sugar crust may lose its iconic crackle after thawing. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge to minimize texture changes.

Reheating

Since this cake shines with its cool custard and crisp sugar shell, reheating is generally not recommended. However, if you prefer a slightly warmer dessert, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving instead of microwaving or baking it again.

FAQs

Can I use regular sugar instead of very fine sugar for the topping?

For the creme brûlée effect on this sheet cake, very fine sugar is crucial. Regular sugar crystals don’t caramelize as smoothly or evenly, so stick to very fine sugar to get that crisp, crackling top layer.

Is it okay to use vanilla extract instead of vanilla bean and paste?

You can substitute vanilla extract, but the flavor and visual appeal won’t be quite the same. Vanilla beans and paste provide a richer, more intense vanilla flavor and beautiful specks that make the dessert look elegant and enticing.

How long does the caramelized sugar stay crispy?

The sugar shell stays crispy best for a few hours after torching or broiling. Over time, refrigeration moisture can soften it, so it’s best enjoyed the day you caramelize it for maximum crunch.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of the Creme Brûlée Sheet Cake Recipe, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to maintain the cake’s texture.

What if I don’t have a broiler to caramelize the topping?

If you don’t have a broiler, a kitchen torch is the perfect alternative to caramelize the sugar topping evenly. It offers more control and prevents overheating or burning the custard beneath.

Final Thoughts

This Creme Brûlée Sheet Cake Recipe truly marries two classic desserts into one show-stopping masterpiece that’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re impressing friends, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving an indulgent slice, this cake promises rich vanilla flavors, a creamy custard filling, and the iconic crackle of caramelized sugar. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself making it again and again for all the moments that deserve something extraordinary.