The Texas Sheet Cake is a beloved classic that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. Known for its rich chocolate taste and easy preparation, this cake has become a staple in many households, especially in the South. Its name comes from the way it’s baked in a large sheet pan, making it ideal for serving a crowd. The cake’s moist texture and decadent chocolate frosting make it a favorite for parties, potlucks, and family gatherings.
What sets the Texas Sheet Cake apart is its seamless combination of cake and frosting. The batter is poured into a sheet pan and baked until perfectly tender. While the cake is still warm, a hot chocolate frosting is spread over the top, allowing it to seep into the cake and enhance its flavor. This method not only simplifies the baking process but also ensures that every bite is infused with rich, chocolatey goodness.
In this recipe, we’ll walk you through the steps to create a classic Texas Sheet Cake that’s sure to impress your guests and become a cherished part of your dessert repertoire. With its easy preparation and delightful taste, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Classic Texas Sheet Cake
- For the Cake:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup boiling water
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
How to Make Classic Texas Sheet Cake
- Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 13×18-inch sheet pan with butter or non-stick spray, and lightly flour it to prevent sticking.
- Make the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt.
- In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in 1 cup of boiling water and mix until well combined.
- Pour the butter and water mixture into the dry ingredients, and stir until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, combine ½ cup of buttermilk, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk together until well blended.
- Add the buttermilk mixture to the cake batter and stir until fully incorporated.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared sheet pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 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 while you prepare the frosting.
- Make the Frosting:
- In a medium saucepan, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Stir in ¼ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder and mix until well combined.
- Add 2 tablespoons of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cocoa mixture and whisk until smooth.
- Gradually add 2 ½ cups of powdered sugar to the mixture, stirring until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
- Frost the Cake:
- While the cake is still warm, spread the hot chocolate frosting evenly over the top using a spatula.
- Allow the frosting to set before cutting the cake into squares and serving.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Cut the cake into squares and serve it at room temperature. This Texas Sheet Cake is perfect for sharing and is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
About the Main Ingredients
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake and contributes to its moist texture. It’s essential for balancing the flavors and creating the cake’s tender crumb.
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for the cake. It’s important to measure accurately to achieve the right texture.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds rich chocolate flavor to the cake. It’s crucial for achieving the cake’s distinctive taste.
- Baking Soda and Baking Powder: Leavening agents that help the cake rise and become fluffy. They work together to create a light texture.
- Salt: Enhances the flavors of the cake and balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cake. It should be melted and combined with the boiling water to create a smooth batter.
- Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and tenderness to the cake. It reacts with the baking soda to create a light, airy texture.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s structure and richness.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor to both the cake and frosting.
- Powdered Sugar: Used in the frosting to provide sweetness and create a smooth, spreadable texture.
This Classic Texas Sheet Cake combines the best elements of chocolate cake and frosting into one delicious, easy-to-make dessert. Its rich flavor and simple preparation make it a perfect choice for any occasion, ensuring that it will be a favorite among family and friends. Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful cake!
