Texas Sheet Cake Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth that’s always looking for something rich, moist, and utterly irresistible, this Texas Sheet Cake Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine a large, fudgy chocolate cake that practically melts in your mouth, topped with a luscious chocolate frosting that’s perfectly smooth and creamy. This cake is quick to whip up, uses simple pantry ingredients, and yields a sheet perfect for sharing at any family gathering or casual celebration. With its deep chocolate flavor and tender crumb, the Texas Sheet Cake Recipe is truly a classic indulgence that brings warm smiles every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this Texas Sheet Cake Recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are. Each one plays a crucial role, from adding moisture and richness to balancing sweetness and delivering that iconic chocolate punch.

• 1 cup water: Provides the perfect liquid base to dissolve cocoa and blend the batter smoothly.
• 1 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender without weighing it down.
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the deep chocolate flavor that’s at the heart of the cake.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled): The foundation for the perfect cake texture.
• 1 1/2 cups white granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right while balancing the cocoa’s bitterness.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise beautifully and stay light.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the chocolate flavor and balances sweetness.
• ½ cup full fat sour cream: Adds a tangy richness and tender crumb.
• 2 large eggs (room temperature): Binds ingredients together and builds structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.
• 1/3 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and moisture to the batter.
• 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: For the decadent frosting that tops the cake.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick): Creates a smooth, rich frosting texture.
• 3 ¼ cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting with a perfect, silky finish.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses the frosting with delightful flavor.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness in the frosting.

How to Make Texas Sheet Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While that warms up, grease an 18×13 inch baking sheet thoroughly with butter to make sure your cake will slide right out once baked. Having your pan ready ensures a smooth bake and easy cleanup.

Step 2: Combine Cocoa Mixture

In a medium saucepan, whisk together water, vegetable oil, and ¾ cup cocoa powder. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it just starts to boil, stirring to dissolve all the cocoa powder completely. This hot cocoa liquid will infuse the batter with deep chocolate flavor and a moist texture. Set it aside but keep it warm.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening and balances out the sweetness and saltiness, creating the perfect base for your cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Pour the hot cocoa mixture into the dry ingredients in one go. Use a spatula to scrape out every bit, then mix with an electric hand mixer on medium speed until everything is smooth and combined. This technique helps activate the baking soda and creates a velvety, rich batter.

Step 5: Add Sour Cream, Eggs, and Vanilla

Next, add the sour cream, room-temperature eggs, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Beat until fully incorporated. The sour cream adds a subtle tang and tenderness, while the eggs build structure.

Step 6: Add Milk and Spread Batter

Pour in the whole milk and mix gently just until combined. Then pour the batter onto your greased baking sheet. Use an offset spatula to smooth it out evenly, tapping the pan gently on your counter to settle the batter for consistent baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Bake your cake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on the texture; you want moist but fully set edges.

Step 8: Make the Frosting

While the cake is baking, begin making the frosting so it can be poured hot over the freshly baked cake. In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter together with 5 tablespoons cocoa powder over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth and glossy.

Step 9: Frost the Cake

As soon as your cake has been out of the oven for about 10 minutes and is still hot, pour the frosting evenly over the top. Use a spatula if needed to gently spread it before it sets. The warmth of the cake helps the frosting soak in beautifully for that perfect sheet cake texture.

How to Serve Texas Sheet Cake Recipe

Garnishes

While the Texas Sheet Cake Recipe is heavenly on its own, elevating it with simple garnishes like chopped pecans, toasted coconut flakes, or even a sprinkle of sea salt can add texture and a surprising twist. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream work nicely to balance the richness on the palate.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a festive touch, try serving it alongside vanilla ice cream or a scoop of fruity sorbet to contrast with the chocolate’s richness. The balance makes each bite feel like a decadent treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking for a showstopper? Cut the Texas Sheet Cake into bite-sized squares and serve them skewered with fresh strawberries or marshmallows for a playful dessert platter. You could also layer the cake pieces with whipped cream and fruit to create a quick trifle that’s sure to impress guests without extra fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Texas Sheet Cake Recipe keeps beautifully for several days. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the frosting fresh and the cake moist. When chilled properly, the flavors even deepen a bit after resting overnight.

Freezing

If you’d like to keep this cake longer, it freezes well too. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and a layer of foil before popping it in the freezer. You can freeze both frosted and unfrosted cake, but frosted freezes best when well-wrapped to prevent frosting damage.

Reheating

To enjoy the cake warm after refrigeration or freezing, simply microwave slices for 15 to 20 seconds at a time or warm gently in a low oven. This will soften the frosting and revive the moist texture, making it as comforting as fresh-baked.

FAQs

Can I use butter instead of vegetable oil in the cake batter?

While butter adds great flavor, vegetable oil keeps this Texas Sheet Cake moist and tender, which is why it’s preferred here. However, you can substitute melted butter if desired, but expect a slightly different texture.

What is the best way to measure flour for this recipe?

To avoid dense cake, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it with a knife instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents packing and ensures the correct amount is used.

Can I make the frosting dairy-free?

Yes! Use a plant-based butter substitute and dairy-free milk options to make the frosting vegan-friendly. Adjust sweetness as needed since some alternatives may alter flavor.

Is sour cream essential in this recipe?

Sour cream contributes to the moistness and slight tang that balances the sweetness. You can substitute with plain Greek yogurt if needed, but it should be full fat for similar results.

Why is the frosting poured hot on the cake?

Pouring the hot frosting over the warm cake helps it spread easily and seep into the surface, creating that signature glossy finish and luscious texture your taste buds will love.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly unforgettable about a slice of Texas Sheet Cake Recipe fresh from the oven, with its moist crumb and rich, fudgy frosting. Whether you’re rewarding yourself after a long day or bringing a homemade treat to friends, this recipe delivers joy with every bite. Trust me, once you make it, it’s going to be your go-to for any occasion that calls for a bit of chocolate magic.

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