Texas Sheet Cake

Texas Sheet Cake is a beloved dessert that brings joy to any gathering. This soft homemade chocolate cake is baked in a large sheet pan and topped with a warm, fudgy pecan frosting. Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or family gatherings, Texas Sheet Cake stands out with its moist texture and rich flavor. It’s not just a treat; it’s a memorable experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Texas Sheet Cake comes together quickly and effortlessly, making it perfect for beginner bakers.
• Feeds a Crowd: With 15 generous servings, it’s ideal for parties or family gatherings.
• Rich Chocolate Flavor: The combination of cocoa powder in both the cake and frosting creates a deep chocolate taste that satisfies any sweet tooth.
• Warm Fudge Frosting: The warm frosting melts into the cake, creating an irresistible texture that everyone loves.
• Versatile Occasions: Whether it’s a holiday or just a regular day, this cake fits perfectly into any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Texas Sheet Cake, gather your tools and prepare your workspace for success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 10×15 inch baking pan
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing the batter easy and ensures all ingredients are well combined without much effort.
• Saucepan: Essential for melting ingredients like butter and creating the fudgy frosting.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for perfect baking results.

Ingredients

Texas Sheet Cake is made with simple ingredients that come together beautifully.

For the Cake

• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks, room temperature)
• 1 cup water
• 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Frosting

• 6 tablespoons whole milk
• 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
• 4 cups confectioners sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup pecans (chopped)

How to Make Texas Sheet Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 10×15 inch pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Mixture

In a saucepan over low heat, melt the 1 cup of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the 1 cup of water and 5 tablespoons of cocoa powder. Bring this mixture to a boil, then remove it from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup of sour cream and 2 large eggs until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In your stand mixer bowl, combine the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Add the sour cream and egg mixture to the dry ingredients in your stand mixer. Once the chocolate mixture has cooled enough to touch, pour it into the bowl. Beat on low speed until everything is fully mixed. Scrape down the sides as needed.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 22-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

While the cake bakes, make your frosting. In another saucepan, combine 6 tablespoons of whole milk with an additional 5 tablespoons of cocoa powder and another 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Bring this mixture to a boil before removing it from heat. Stir in the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract. Finally, fold in chopped pecans until well blended.

Step 8: Frost Your Cake

Once baked, allow the cake to cool slightly before spreading the warm frosting over it while still warm.

Now you have an incredible Texas Sheet Cake ready to impress! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Texas Sheet Cake

Serving Texas Sheet Cake can be a delightful experience. This rich chocolate dessert is versatile and pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your enjoyment.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added lightness and texture.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices alongside vanilla or coffee ice cream to create a delicious contrast of temperatures.

Fresh Berries

• Garnish with strawberries or raspberries to add a fresh, fruity element that balances the sweetness.

Drizzled Chocolate Sauce

• Elevate your cake by drizzling warm chocolate sauce over each piece for an indulgent touch.

Toasted Coconut

• Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for a tropical twist that complements the chocolate flavor.

Coffee Pairing

• Enjoy with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, as the rich flavors of the cake pair beautifully with coffee’s bitterness.

How to Perfect Texas Sheet Cake

Creating the perfect Texas Sheet Cake involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out delicious every time.

• Measure ingredients accurately – Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure you have the right quantities for a balanced cake.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Allow butter, eggs, and sour cream to reach room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Don’t overmix – Mix the batter just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one.

• Check doneness carefully – Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

• Let it cool before frosting – Allow the cake to cool slightly before adding frosting so it doesn’t melt off.

Best Side Dishes for Texas Sheet Cake

Texas Sheet Cake can be complemented with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that adds creaminess and coolness to the rich chocolate cake.
2. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
3. Chocolate Mousse – For chocolate lovers, this light dessert offers an elegant touch alongside your sheet cake.
4. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses can provide savory contrast, especially with sharp varieties like cheddar.
5. Pecan Pie Bars – A nod to Southern desserts, these bars echo the pecan topping on the cake.
6. Coffee or Espresso – The bitterness of coffee enhances the sweet flavors of Texas Sheet Cake, making for a delightful combination.
7. Caramel Sauce – Drizzle caramel sauce over slices for an extra layer of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with chocolate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Texas Sheet Cake can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps achieve a better texture in your cake.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light texture you want.
• Ignoring the baking time: Keep an eye on the oven timer. Checking a few minutes early can prevent overbaking, which can dry out your cake.
• Not cooling the frosting mixture: Allow the cocoa mixture to cool slightly before adding it to the batter. This prevents cooking the eggs and helps maintain a smooth consistency.
• Skipping the greasing step: Grease and flour your pan thoroughly or use parchment paper. This ensures easy removal of your cake after baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Texas Sheet Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Texas Sheet Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months for best flavor and texture.

Reheating Texas Sheet Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes. This method keeps it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Texas Sheet Cake is beloved, so it’s natural to have questions! Here are some common inquiries about this recipe.

What makes Texas Sheet Cake different from other cakes?

Texas Sheet Cake is unique because it is baked in a large sheet pan, allowing for more servings and quicker baking time compared to traditional round cakes.

Can I customize my Texas Sheet Cake?

Absolutely! You can add different nuts, swap chocolate for vanilla, or even mix in fruits like cherries or raspberries for added flavor.

How do I know when my Texas Sheet Cake is done?

You can check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, it’s ready!

Is there a gluten-free version of Texas Sheet Cake?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Adjustments might be needed based on the blend used.

How long does it take to prepare Texas Sheet Cake?

The total time is approximately 45 minutes, with about 20 minutes of prep work and around 25 minutes of baking.

Final Thoughts

Texas Sheet Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for gatherings or as a cozy dessert at home. Feel free to customize it with your favorite nuts or flavors, making it truly your own. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every bite!