Sheet cake

A sheet cake is baked in a large, shallow rectangular pan, which gives a single flat layer that is frosted on top and cut into squares. Penn State Extension lists sheet cakes among the desserts that suit a rimmed baking sheet, a pan it says is sometimes called a jelly roll pan.

Sheet cakes are popular for gatherings because one pan feeds many people, and the baking is quick and even. Common pans include the 9 by 13 inch home cake pan and larger half-sheet pans, around 13 by 18 inches.

The cake is usually frosted in the pan or turned out and covered with a thin layer of buttercream, then decorated with piped borders or lettering. It is a forgiving cake for beginners to make.