Craving a soft and extra-moist cake that comes together in just one bowl? This kefir sheet cake is one of the easiest and fluffiest desserts you’ll ever bake — perfectly tangy, tender, and topped with a silky chocolate glaze. Thanks to the natural acidity of kefir, the cake stays soft for days, making it ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a quick sweet snack.
Inspired by the classic Czech Kefírová buchta, this recipe uses simple ingredients and foolproof steps, making it accessible even for beginner bakers. Many readers say this is the softest cake they’ve ever made — scroll down to see why.
If you love easy chocolate and coconut desserts, be sure to try our Mounds Cake Recipe for another irresistible treat.
Kefir Sheet Cake Recipe: Soft, Moist, and Full of Flavor
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A super moist one-bowl chocolate kefir cake topped with rich glaze and optional coconut, berries, or nuts.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons Dutch cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup kefir
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup sunflower or canola oil
- 1 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
- Optional: Unsweetened shredded coconut
- Optional: Fresh berries
- Optional: Orange zest
- Optional: Chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, pecans)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 340°F (170°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and dust lightly with breadcrumbs.
- In a bowl, sift flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk kefir, eggs, sugar, and oil until smooth.
- Gently fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients. Do not overmix.
- Pour batter into pan and bake for 20–25 minutes. Check doneness with toothpick. Let cool 10 minutes.
- Melt chocolate chips and cream over a water bath until smooth.
- Pour warm glaze over cooled cake and sprinkle with toppings as desired.
- Slice into squares and enjoy!
Notes
For extra moisture, brush cake with a thin layer of berry jam before glazing. Store airtight to keep soft for days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: kefir, chocolate cake, easy dessert, one-bowl, moist sheet cake
Table of Contents
⭐ Simple Ingredients for an Extra Moist Kefir Sheet Cake
To create this soft and flavorful kefir sheet cake recipe, you’ll need a handful of simple, everyday ingredients. Each ingredient plays a unique role in achieving the perfect texture and taste. Additionally, I’ll provide some substitution options to make this kefir sheet cake recipe suitable for various dietary needs. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious kefir sheet cake recipe.
✔ Main Ingredients
- All-purpose flour – Creates structure; can be replaced with gluten-free flour.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetness + tender crumb.
- Kefir – Adds moisture, tanginess, and natural probiotics.
- Eggs – Provide richness and help the cake rise.
- Dutch cocoa powder – For a rich chocolate flavor.
- Baking soda – Reacts with kefir for a fluffy texture.
- Sunflower or canola oil – Keeps the cake extra moist.
✔ Optional Chocolate Glaze
- Dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
✔ Flavorful Add-ins
Shredded coconut
Fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries)
Orange zest
Chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans
Essential Tools for Baking a Fluffy Kefir Sheet Cake
Before starting this easy one-bowl cake recipe, make sure you have the right tools. Having the proper equipment ensures your cake turns out soft, moist, and perfectly baked.
- Mixing bowls: One large bowl for the batter and a smaller one for the glaze.
- Whisk or hand mixer: To mix the wet and dry ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurements.
- 9×13-inch baking pan: The ideal size for this kefir sheet cake recipe.
- Rubber spatula: Helps fold the batter gently without deflating it.
- Toothpick or skewer: Used to check for doneness.
- Small saucepan: If you’re making the chocolate glaze.
Now that everything is ready, let’s move on to the fun part—baking!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Best Kefir Sheet Cake
How to Prepare the Batter for a Soft and Moist Kefir Cake
Preheat your oven to 340°F (170°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with oil and dust it lightly with breadcrumbs. This step prevents the cake from sticking and ensures an even bake.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons Dutch cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- A pinch of salt
Sifting prevents lumps and makes the cake light and fluffy.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
- 1 cup kefir
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sunflower oil
Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This combination ensures a moist kefir cake with a tender crumb.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Use a rubber spatula and mix gently to maintain airiness. Overmixing can make the cake dense, so take your time.
Baking Tips for a Perfectly Fluffy Kefir Sheet Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 20–25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean. Once done, allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.
How to Make a Rich Chocolate Glaze for Your Kefir Cake
In a small saucepan over a water bath, melt:
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Stir until smooth. Pour the glaze over the cooled cake and sprinkle with unsweetened shredded coconut.
Slice and Serve
This kefir sheet cake recipe is not only easy to follow but also guarantees a delightful outcome that everyone will love.
Once the glaze sets, slice the cake into 3×3-inch squares. Serve it as a breakfast treat or pair it with coffee for a delightful snack.
Flavor Variations for Your Homemade Kefir Sheet Cake
For a super moist cake, consider brushing the baked cake with a thin layer of fruit jam before applying the glaze. This extra step locks in moisture and adds another layer of flavor. For variations, try adding fresh berries or a sprinkle of orange zest to the batter of this kefir sheet cake recipe for a fruity twist.
For those with dietary restrictions, this kefir sheet cake recipe is easily adaptable. Use plant-based kefir and flax eggs for a vegan version, or replace the flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free treat.
To keep your kefir sheet cake recipe fresh and moist, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. However, if you prefer to extend its freshness, you can refrigerate it, allowing it to last for up to 5 days. For even longer storage, simply wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. This way, the cake can stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw the slices at room temperature or warm them slightly for that freshly baked taste.
Remember, the secret to a great kefir sheet cake recipe lies in the quality of your ingredients and the care you put into baking.
To keep your kefir sheet cake fresh and moist, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. However, if you prefer to extend its freshness, you can refrigerate it, allowing it to last for up to 5 days. For even longer storage, simply wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. This way, the cake can stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw the slices at room temperature or warm them slightly for that freshly baked taste.
Serve this cake with hot coffee, tea, or topped with fresh berries and a drizzle of honey.
In conclusion, this kefir sheet cake recipe is a must-try for anyone who enjoys baking and a delicious dessert.
Flavor Variations You’ll Love
- Add orange zest for a citrus twist.
- Swirl berry jam on top before baking.
- Use carob powder instead of cocoa for a caffeine-free version.
- Add fresh berries to the batter for a fruity burst.
If you love fruity recipes, check out our reader favorite Baked Cinnamon Chips.
Storage Tips: Keeping Your Kefir Cake Moist
This cake stays moist for days thanks to the kefir.
- Room temperature: 3 days (airtight container)
- Refrigerator: 5 days
- Freezer: Up to 3 months
To freeze: wrap each slice in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 385 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 19g
This cake is packed with the natural probiotics of kefir, making it a gut-friendly dessert you can feel good about.
FAQs
Can I substitute kefir for buttermilk?
Yes, you can easily substitute kefir for buttermilk in this recipe! While buttermilk works well, kefir adds a unique tangy flavor and extra moisture, making the cake even softer and more flavorful. Additionally, kefir provides probiotics, which can offer added health benefits.
How do I keep the cake moist?
To keep your cake soft and moist, be sure not to overbake it. Always check for doneness with a toothpick—once it comes out clean, remove the cake from the oven. Furthermore, store the cake properly in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator to lock in moisture. For extra freshness, you can also wrap the cake in plastic wrap before storing it.
Can I freeze kefir cake?
Absolutely! Freezing this cake is a great option if you want to enjoy it later. First, allow the cake to cool completely. Then, slice it into portions, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. This way, the cake will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it slightly in the microwave for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
What fruits go well in this cake?
A variety of fruits pair wonderfully with this kefir sheet cake recipe. For instance, fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, and cranberries add bursts of flavor. Additionally, citrus fruits such as orange or lemon zest can give the cake a refreshing aroma. If you prefer something different, dried fruits like chopped dates or raisins also work well, providing a chewy texture and natural sweetness.
Closing Thoughts
This kefir sheet cake recipe is incredibly soft, wonderfully moist, and filled with rich, tangy flavors that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a casual brunch, or simply craving something sweet, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Not only is it easy to make, but it also offers a delicious balance of sweetness and tang. So, why not give this recipe a try today? Once you’ve baked and enjoyed it, be sure to share your thoughts and let us know how it turned out!
Delicious Pairings & More Desserts
To make your baking experience even better, check out these delightful recipes:
- Try these Easy Churro Cheesecake Bars for a crispy, creamy twist on a classic treat.
- Indulge in the rich flavors of the Mounds Cake Recipe for more chocolate and coconut goodness.
- Craving something chewy? Bake these fudgy Matcha Brownies for a healthy twist on brownies.
- Looking for a cozy breakfast idea? Don’t miss out on the Baked Cinnamon Chips for a warm, spiced crunch.
- Discover this Mounds Cake Recipe.