Indulge in the rich, decadent flavors of this Texas Sheet Cake, a beloved Southern classic. With a moist chocolate cake base, topped with a creamy, fudge-like frosting, this cake is perfect for large gatherings, potlucks, or simply satisfying your chocolate cravings. Easy to make and even easier to devour, this cake will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Texas Sheet Cake
- For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
How to Make Texas Sheet Cake
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, water, and cocoa powder. Stir occasionally until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour the warm cocoa mixture into the dry ingredients and stir to combine.
- Add the buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, and baking powder, and mix until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly.
- Bake the Cake:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting.
- Make the Frosting:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, cocoa powder, and milk. Stir constantly until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, whisking until smooth and creamy.
- If desired, stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
- Frost the Cake:
- As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, pour the frosting over the hot cake. Use a spatula to spread it evenly over the top, allowing the frosting to melt into the warm cake.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the cake cool to room temperature before cutting into squares and serving. This cake can be served warm or at room temperature, and it stays moist for several days.
Why This Recipe Works
Moist & Tender: The buttermilk and melted butter create a moist, tender cake that holds up well even when covered in frosting.
- Rich & Decadent: The chocolate flavor shines through in both the cake and the frosting, giving you a rich dessert experience.
- Perfect for Large Groups: With its large, easy-to-cut squares, this cake is great for parties, family gatherings, or potlucks.
Pro Tips for Perfect Texas Sheet Cake
- Don’t Overbake the Cake: Be sure to check the cake with a toothpick around 20 minutes to avoid overbaking. The cake should be moist, not dry.
- Warm the Cake Before Frosting: Apply the frosting while the cake is still warm for the best results. The heat helps the frosting melt into the cake, making it extra delicious.
- Customize the Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans or walnuts, you can skip them or use other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts.
Serving Suggestions for Texas Sheet Cake
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or milk to balance the sweetness.
- This cake also makes a great gift when packaged in a decorative tin or wrapped in parchment paper.
Storage Guidelines
- Room Temperature: Store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.
- Refrigeration: If you want to extend the shelf life, you can store the cake in the fridge for up to 1 week. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
- Freezing: Freeze individual slices or the whole cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight.
