How to Frost a Cake in a Pan

Frost a cake in the pan for a stress-free dessert.

Sheet cake, which is baked and frosted in the same pan, is an informal dessert that can serve a large group of people. Sheet cakes are typically baked in a 15-inch by 10 1/2-inch pan or a 9-inch by13-inch pan that can be shallow or deep. Sheet cakes are frosted with a variety of flavors and toppings. Once frosted, sheet cakes are ideal for transporting to an event without making a mess. Cake pans are available with plastic lids or can be covered in aluminum foil. Does this Spark an idea?

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Pastry brush
Flat metal spatula
Frosting
Toppings

Instructions

- 1
  
  Brush the crumbs off of the cake once it has completely cooled using a pastry brush. Cool the cake quickly by placing it in the freezer for 30 minutes if you are in a hurry.
- 2
  
  Spread 1 cup of frosting in a thin layer over the top of the cake while it's in the pan. Use a flat metal spatula for spreading. The first layer is called the crumb coat as it seals any loose crumbs down so the top layer will be smooth and aesthetically pleasing. Let the first layer sit for 30 minutes to set.
- 3
  
  Spread another cup of frosting on top of the crumb coat with the flat metal spatula. Add more frosting as needed to evenly cover the entire cake. Let the second layer set for 30 minutes and add another layer if you like a lot of frosting.
- 4
  
  Sprinkle the cake with toppings, such as toasted coconut, mini chocolate chips, chocolate shavings or rainbow sprinkles if desired. To help them stick, add the toppings right after the last coat of frosting.