Texas Sheet Cake

Texas Sheet Cake is a delightful, soft chocolate cake that is perfect for sharing. Its warm, fudge-like pecan frosting makes it a favorite at gatherings, potlucks, and family celebrations. This cake is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, offering a rich chocolate flavor that everyone loves. Whether it’s a birthday party or just a cozy night in, Texas Sheet Cake stands out with its moist texture and delicious topping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for parties or gatherings, this cake serves 15 people with ease.
• Rich Chocolate Flavor: The combination of cocoa powder and pecans creates an indulgent taste experience.
• One-Pan Wonder: Bake it in a single sheet pan for convenience and less cleanup.
• Customizable Toppings: While pecans are traditional, feel free to add your favorite nuts or sprinkles.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Texas Sheet Cake, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the baking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool helps mix the batter quickly and efficiently, ensuring everything is well combined without much effort.
• Saucepan: Used for melting butter and mixing the cocoa mixture; it allows for even heating.
• Whisk: Essential for combining eggs and sour cream smoothly, ensuring no lumps remain.

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)

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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 Cocoa Mixture

Melt the 1 cup of unsalted butter on low heat in a saucepan. Add the 1 cup of water and 5 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder. Bring this mixture to a boil, then remove 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. This combination will add moisture to your cake.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In the bowl of your stand mixer, 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 until well blended.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Beat in the sour cream and egg mixture into the dry ingredients. Once the cocoa mixture has cooled enough to handle, add it slowly to the flour mixture on low speed. Scrape down the sides as needed until fully mixed.

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 into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

While your cake bakes, prepare the frosting. In another saucepan, combine 6 tablespoons of whole milk, an additional 5 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder, and an additional 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Bring this mixture to a boil before removing it from heat.

Step 8: Finish Frosting

Stir in the 4 cups of confectioners sugar along with 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Fold in the chopped pecans until everything is well mixed.

Step 9: Frost Your Cake

Once your cake has baked and cooled slightly, spread the warm frosting over it evenly. Enjoy your homemade Texas Sheet Cake!

How to Serve Texas Sheet Cake

Texas Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging on a weekend, there are many creative ways to serve this delicious cake.

Individual Slices

• Serve warm slices directly from the baking sheet for a casual approach.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an extra treat.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair slices with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a fruity contrast.
• Drizzle some chocolate sauce over the fruit for added sweetness.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on each slice for a light and fluffy texture.
• Enhance the presentation with chocolate shavings or cocoa powder.

As a Layered Dessert

• Cut pieces of Texas Sheet Cake into squares and layer them in glass cups with whipped cream and fruit.
• Create an eye-catching trifle that guests will love.

How to Perfect Texas Sheet Cake

To ensure your Texas Sheet Cake turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until all ingredients are combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is calibrated correctly to avoid undercooking or overbaking the cake.
• Cool Before Frosting: Allow the cake to cool slightly before adding frosting, which helps it adhere better without melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Texas Sheet Cake

While Texas Sheet Cake is delicious on its own, pairing it with side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the rich chocolate flavor perfectly.
2. Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add freshness and acidity.
3. Chocolate Mousse: For chocolate lovers, serve alongside rich chocolate mousse for an indulgent treat.
4. Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cake.
5. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over each slice for an extra layer of sweetness.
6. Chilled Milk: A cold glass of milk is always a favorite, bringing back nostalgic memories of childhood desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Texas Sheet Cake is simple, but certain mistakes can ruin your delicious creation. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold butter or eggs can affect the batter’s texture. Always use room temperature ingredients for a fluffy cake.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined to keep your Texas Sheet Cake light and airy.
• Skipping the Parchment Paper: Not lining your pan can make it hard to remove the cake. Use parchment paper or grease the pan well to ensure easy removal.
• Not Checking Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can spoil your cake. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy, as ovens can vary.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Frosting a hot cake can cause it to melt and slide off. Let your cake cool completely before adding the frosting for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• If using plastic wrap, ensure it’s tightly sealed to prevent drying out.

Freezing Texas Sheet Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months without compromising taste or texture.

Reheating Texas Sheet Cake

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Texas Sheet Cake unique?

Texas Sheet Cake stands out due to its moist texture and rich chocolate flavor, topped with a warm fudge-like frosting that is simply irresistible.

Can I use different nuts in my Texas Sheet Cake?

Yes! While pecans are traditional, feel free to substitute with walnuts or omit nuts altogether if you prefer a nut-free version.

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

Your cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it during baking as ovens may vary.

Can I add other flavors to my Texas Sheet Cake?

Absolutely! You can mix in coffee or espresso powder for an added depth of flavor, or even try vanilla extract instead of chocolate icing for variety.

How should I serve my Texas Sheet Cake?

This cake is perfect as a dessert at gatherings or parties, served plain or with ice cream on the side for a delightful treat!

Final Thoughts

Texas Sheet Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its soft chocolate base and rich frosting make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize with different nuts or flavors to make it your own! Try this recipe today and impress your family and friends with this classic American dessert!

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Texas Sheet Cake

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 15 slices 1x

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Description

Texas Sheet Cake is a classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to birthday parties. This moist chocolate cake is baked in a large sheet pan and topped with a rich, warm fudge-like frosting adorned with crunchy pecans. It’s not only easy to prepare but also serves a crowd, making it an ideal choice for potlucks or celebrations. The combination of simple ingredients results in a decadent treat that everyone will love. Enjoy a slice warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and experience the delightful blend of flavors and textures in every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• For the frosting: whole milk
• additional cocoa powder
• confectioners sugar
• vanilla extract
• chopped pecans

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10×15 inch pan.
2. In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add water and cocoa powder; bring to boil then remove from heat.
3. In a bowl, whisk together sour cream and eggs until smooth.
4. In a stand mixer, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
5. Add the sour cream mixture to the dry ingredients; slowly mix in the cooled cocoa mixture until fully combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 22-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. For frosting, boil milk, cocoa powder, and butter in another saucepan; remove from heat and stir in confectioners sugar and vanilla before mixing in pecans.
8. Spread warm frosting over the cooled cake.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 38g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 51g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing. Avoid overmixing to keep your cake light. Cool the cake slightly before frosting for best results.