Soft, sweet, and perfect for any celebration — these pink vanilla cake bars are fun to make, beautiful to serve, and absolutely delicious! With a tender vanilla cake base, a glossy glaze, and a sprinkle of pink magic, they’re the ultimate party treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pretty in pink and perfect for birthdays, showers, or holidays.
Simple vanilla cake base that’s soft and moist.
Customizable with sprinkles, glitter, or different glaze colors.
Easy to bake in one pan and slice into neat bars.
Kid-friendly and party-ready!

Ingredients

For the cake:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk
Pink food coloring

For the glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pink sprinkles or edible glitter (optional)

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 servings

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch pan.

Step 2: Combine dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream butter and sugar

In a large bowl, beat butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 4–5 minutes.

Step 4: Add eggs and vanilla

Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.

Step 5: Alternate dry and wet

Add dry ingredients and milk alternately to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.

Step 6: Add color

Stir in a few drops of pink food coloring and fold gently until evenly tinted.

Step 7: Bake the cake

Pour batter into prepared pan, spread evenly, and bake 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool

Cool completely on a wire rack before glazing.

Step 9: Make the glaze

In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.

Step 10: Decorate

Drizzle glaze over cooled cake, then top with pink sprinkles or edible glitter if desired.

Step 11: Set and slice

Allow glaze to set, then cut into bars and serve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, they keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Can I use a different food coloring?
Absolutely — switch to any color to match your party theme.

Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, freeze unglazed bars for up to 2 months. Add the glaze after thawing.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger pan or bake in two pans for bigger gatherings.

Final Thoughts

These Pink Party Vanilla Cake Bars are as festive as they are flavorful — the perfect sweet bite for birthdays, showers, or any special event. With their pretty pink color and soft vanilla taste, they’re sure to be a centerpiece at your celebration.