Texas Sheet Cake

Texas Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together rich chocolate flavor with a moist, fluffy texture. Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake stands out because of its warm fudge-like frosting and the crunch of pecans. Its large size makes it ideal for serving a crowd, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy a slice of this classic American treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Texas Sheet Cake comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate cake and fudge-like frosting creates a rich taste that chocolate lovers will adore.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 15 generous servings, this cake is ideal for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe by adding different nuts or using different types of frosting to suit your taste.
• One-Pan Wonder: Made in a single baking sheet, cleanup is a breeze!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Texas Sheet Cake, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Having the right equipment can simplify the process and give you great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Baking sheet (10×15 inch)
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing the batter quick and easy, ensuring everything is well combined without too much effort.
• Baking sheet: The right size is essential for even baking; a 10×15 inch pan allows for the perfect thickness.
• Saucepan: Necessary for melting butter and combining the cocoa mixture efficiently.

Ingredients

Texas Sheet Cake is a soft homemade chocolate cake made in a large baking sheet topped with warm fudge-like pecan frosting.

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.

Step 2: Prepare the Cocoa Mixture

In a saucepan over low heat, melt the 1 cup unsalted butter. Add in the 1 cup water and 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder. Bring this mixture to a boil before removing it from heat. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup sour cream and 2 large eggs until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In your stand mixer bowl, combine 2 cups all purpose flour, 2 cups granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mix briefly before adding in the sour cream-egg mixture.

Step 5: Add Cocoa Mixture to Batter

Once the cocoa mixture has cooled enough to touch, beat it into the flour mixture at low speed. Scrape down the sides of your bowl as needed until everything is just mixed together.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

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

Step 7: Make the Frosting

While the cake bakes, prepare your frosting. In another saucepan, combine 6 tablespoons whole milk, additional 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, and additional 1/2 cup unsalted butter. Bring this mixture to a boil before removing from heat. Stir in 4 cups confectioners sugar and add in the vanilla extract. Finally, fold in chopped pecans until everything is well blended.

Step 8: Frost Your Cake

Spread your warm frosting over the freshly baked cake while it’s still warm for maximum flavor absorption.

Enjoy your homemade Texas Sheet Cake!

How to Serve Texas Sheet Cake

Texas Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual weekday treat, serving suggestions can enhance the experience.

Classic Slice

• Serve a simple slice topped with the warm pecan frosting for an authentic taste.

A La Mode

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of the cake for a rich and creamy contrast.

Coffee Companion

• Pair your cake with a cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.

Festive Platter

• Cut into small squares and arrange on a platter for parties. This makes it easy for guests to grab and enjoy.

Drizzle Delight

• Drizzle with chocolate syrup or caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.

Fruit Addition

• Serve alongside fresh berries for a refreshing touch that complements the chocolate.

How to Perfect Texas Sheet Cake

Creating the perfect Texas Sheet Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out just right.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than a light, fluffy texture.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is accurate, as baking relies heavily on proper temperatures.
• Cool Before Frosting: Allow the cake to cool slightly before adding frosting. This allows it to set properly without melting off.
• Experiment with Nuts: While pecans are traditional, try walnuts or omit nuts altogether if preferred for different flavors.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cake covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Texas Sheet Cake

Texas Sheet Cake pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the richness of the chocolate.
2. Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries bring brightness and acidity that contrast nicely with the sweet cake.
3. Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream makes for a fluffy topping that enhances each bite.
4. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color to your dessert spread.
5. Chocolate Mousse: For chocoholics, serving alongside chocolate mousse can create a decadent experience.
6. Cream Cheese Frosting Dip: Offer this sweet dip for those who love extra indulgence; it pairs wonderfully with cake pieces.
7. Pecan Pie Bars: For those who enjoy nutty desserts, these bars provide an appealing contrast in texture and flavor.
8. Coffee or Tea: Serving beverages like coffee or tea can elevate your dessert experience, making it perfect for gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Texas Sheet Cake, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Always use room temperature butter and eggs. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and a dense cake.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can cause the cake to become tough instead of light and fluffy.
• Not checking for doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done. If it comes out clean, it’s ready; otherwise, it needs more time.
• Skipping the frosting step: Make the frosting while the cake bakes. This ensures that the frosting is warm when spread on the cake, allowing it to melt into every bite.
• Storing improperly: Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container. This prevents it from drying out or absorbing odors from your fridge.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Texas Sheet Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure it’s completely cooled before covering to avoid condensation.

Freezing Texas Sheet Cake

• Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and foil.
• Store in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Texas Sheet Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 20-30 seconds. Check often to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat. Place a slice in the skillet and cover until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Texas Sheet Cake?

Texas Sheet Cake is a large, moist chocolate cake baked in a sheet pan and topped with rich pecan frosting. It’s perfect for serving a crowd!

How do I ensure my Texas Sheet Cake is fluffy?

To achieve fluffiness, use room temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing your batter after adding the dry ingredients.

Can I substitute ingredients in Texas Sheet Cake?

Yes! You can replace sour cream with yogurt or use almond milk instead of whole milk. Just keep proportions similar for best results.

How long does Texas Sheet Cake last?

When stored properly, Texas Sheet Cake can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Texas Sheet Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its rich chocolate flavor pairs well with various toppings or mix-ins, such as coconut or other nuts. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it at home, this cake is sure to impress everyone who tries it. Don’t hesitate to customize your version of this classic dessert!

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Texas Sheet Cake

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 15 servings 1x

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Description

Texas Sheet Cake is a beloved dessert that combines rich chocolate flavor with a moist, fluffy texture, making it the perfect treat for gatherings or a sweet indulgence at home. This easy-to-make cake features a warm fudge-like frosting topped with crunchy pecans, ensuring a delightful experience in every bite. With its generous servings and customizable options, it’s an ideal choice for parties and celebrations. Prepare to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings with this classic American dessert that is as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup water
• 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons whole milk
• 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cups confectioners sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10×15 inch baking sheet.
2. In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in water and cocoa powder; bring to a boil then set aside.
3. In a bowl, whisk together sour cream and eggs until well combined.
4. In a stand mixer, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix briefly before adding the sour cream mixture.
5. Once the cocoa mixture has cooled slightly, mix it into the batter until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 22-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. For frosting, combine milk, cocoa powder, and butter in another saucepan; bring to a boil then remove from heat. Stir in confectioners sugar and vanilla extract before mixing in pecans.
8. Frost the warm cake with the frosting for best flavor absorption.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 35g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 50mg