Chocolate sheet cakes are a classic dessert loved by many. Their rich, moist texture combined with a sweet chocolate frosting makes them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a party, or simply craving a delightful dessert, this chocolate sheet cake recipe is sure to impress. In this guide, we’ll take you through each step to create the most delicious chocolate sheet cake you’ve ever tasted.
Ingredients for Chocolate Sheet Cake
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup milk
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How to Make Chocolate Sheet Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray and lightly dust with flour. This will help ensure that your cake doesn’t stick to the pan and comes out easily once baked.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed. Set the bowl aside.
Step 3: Heat the Wet Ingredients
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the vegetable oil, water, and unsweetened cocoa powder to the saucepan. Stir the mixture continuously until it comes to a boil. Once it begins to boil, remove the saucepan from heat.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the hot cocoa mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a whisk or electric mixer on low speed, blend the ingredients together until they are well combined. The batter should be smooth and free of lumps.
Step 5: Add Eggs, Buttermilk, and Vanilla
In a separate small bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Add the beaten eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract to the batter. Continue mixing until all the ingredients are fully incorporated and the batter is smooth.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly using a spatula to ensure an even bake. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
While the cake is cooling, start making the frosting. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the unsweetened cocoa powder and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Remove the saucepan from heat.
Step 8: Add Sugar and Vanilla
Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cocoa mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, and continue to mix until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
Step 9: Frost the Cake
Once the cake has completely cooled, pour the frosting over the top. Use a spatula to spread the frosting evenly over the entire surface of the cake. Allow the frosting to set for a few minutes before serving.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Cut the chocolate sheet cake into squares and serve. Enjoy the rich, moist cake with its smooth and decadent chocolate frosting. This cake is perfect for any celebration or as a sweet treat to share with family and friends.
About the Main Ingredients
All-Purpose Flour
All-purpose flour provides the structure and body for the cake. It’s a versatile flour that works well in many baking recipes, including cakes, cookies, and breads.
Cocoa Powder
Unsweetened cocoa powder gives the cake its rich chocolate flavor. It’s important to use high-quality cocoa powder to achieve the best taste.
Buttermilk
Buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang to the cake, enhancing its flavor and texture. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk and letting it sit for a few minutes.
Butter
Butter is used in both the cake and the frosting. It adds richness and flavor, as well as helps create a tender crumb in the cake.
Sugar
Granulated sugar sweetens the cake, while powdered sugar is used in the frosting for a smooth and creamy texture.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of both the cake and the frosting, adding a warm and sweet aroma that complements the chocolate.
By following these steps and using these quality ingredients, you’ll be able to create a chocolate sheet cake that’s sure to delight anyone who tries it. Happy baking!
