If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the fun of a cookie with the flair of a cake, sheet pan cookie cake is the perfect solution. Whether it’s a birthday party, school event, or just a Friday night treat, this easy-to-make dessert will have everyone asking for seconds. Best of all? It’s baked in a single pan, making prep and cleanup a breeze.
🎂 What Is a Sheet Pan Cookie Cake?
A sheet pan cookie cake is essentially a giant cookie baked in a shallow rectangular pan, often decorated like a cake and served in squares or wedges. Unlike traditional cookies that are dropped by spoonfuls or scooped into balls, the dough for this cookie cake is pressed evenly across a baking sheet. The result? A soft, chewy, golden-brown cookie with crisp edges and a gooey center—ideal for frosting, sprinkles, and personalization.
🥣 Why You’ll Love It
- Easy to make: No special skills or fancy tools required.
- Customizable: Change up the flavors, add-ins, or toppings to suit any occasion.
- Feeds a crowd: Perfect for parties, picnics, or school events.
- Minimal cleanup: One pan does it all—no need for multiple batches or fuss.
🍫 Basic Ingredients for Sheet Pan Cookie Cake
Here’s a classic chocolate chip version to get you started:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Optional: Frosting, sprinkles, or candy for decorating
👩🍳 How to Make Sheet Pan Cookie Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- Cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla; beat until combined.
- Mix in flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips (or your preferred mix-ins).
- Spread the dough evenly in the pan, pressing it into the corners.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center.
- Cool completely before adding frosting or slicing into squares.
🎉 Creative Variations to Try
- Birthday Funfetti: Add rainbow sprinkles to the dough and top with vanilla frosting and more sprinkles.
- Peanut Butter Lovers: Use peanut butter chips and a swirl of peanut butter frosting.
- Cookies & Cream: Fold in crushed chocolate sandwich cookies and drizzle with white chocolate.
- Holiday Edition: Mix in red and green M&Ms, heart-shaped candies, or pastel-colored mini eggs depending on the season.
🤔 FAQs About Sheet Pan Cookie Cake
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can bake the cookie cake a day in advance. Store it tightly covered at room temperature and decorate before serving.
Q: What type of pan should I use?
A: A metal 9×13-inch sheet pan works best. Glass pans may require extra baking time and can result in uneven browning.
Q: Can I freeze sheet pan cookie cake?
A: Yes. Freeze it un-decorated, tightly wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost when ready to serve.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Definitely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend. Make sure your mix-ins are also gluten-free.
Q: What’s the best way to decorate it?
A: Use buttercream or cream cheese frosting, piped around the edges or across the top. Add sprinkles, chocolate drizzle, or themed decorations.
🍰 Conclusion: A Sweet Slice of Joy
A sheet pan cookie cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration in every bite. With its soft texture, endless flavor possibilities, and easy preparation, it’s a go-to treat for bakers of all levels. Whether you’re hosting a birthday bash, potluck, or just craving something sweet and simple, this cookie cake delivers on both flavor and fun. So grab your sheet pan and let the baking (and decorating) begin!
