Vanilla Sheet Cake

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven to 350F.
2. 2
   Line a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, and set aside.
3. 3
   Sift together the flour, salt, and baking powder in a medium bowl.
4. 4
   In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat together the egg yolks and sugar on medium-low speed until light and fluffy.
5. 5
   Beat in the water and vanilla bean scrapings.
6. 6
   Add the dry ingredients in 3 batches, scraping down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed, just until the flour mixture is incorporated after each addition.
7. 7
   In another mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff but not until dry peaks form; whisk one-quarter of the egg whites into the batter to lighten.
8. 8
   Fold in the remaining egg whites, and pour the batter into the prepared pan.
9. 9
   Bake until the cake springs back when gently pressed in the center, 15 to 20 minutes.
10. 10
    Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.