Texas Sheet Cake

Texas Sheet Cake is a classic dessert which features a moist chocolate cake topped with a smooth, chocolatey glaze and a sprinkle of pecans.

Imagine biting into a rich, moist chocolate cake topped with a smooth, glossy frosting and sprinkled with crunchy pecans. Today we’re putting together a Texas Sheet Cake that’s all of that and more!

As with all things Texas, it’s go big or go home! We’ve got big flavor here and a big ‘ole cake. This classic dessert is perfect for family gatherings, birthday parties, or any occasion that calls for a delicious treat. It’s seriously one of my favorite cakes to eat.

Texas Sheet Cake is all about that rich chocolate flavor and moist, tender texture. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just for fun, this classic dessert will always impress.

It’s got simple ingredients and easy preparation, so it’s a go-to recipe for any baker. You won’t regret the effort it takes.

As always, be sure to share the experience with a loved one! Family and friends make amazing memories when baking is involved.

With its simple ingredients and easy steps, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Let’s dive into this yummy and easy-to-make cake!

Common Questions About Texas Sheet Cake

What makes Texas Sheet Cake different from regular cake?

Texas Sheet Cake is known for its thin, moist texture and rich chocolate flavor. Unlike regular cake, it’s baked in a large jelly roll pan or half sheet pan, which gives it a unique thinness.

The warm chocolate frosting is poured over the cake while it’s still hot, allowing it to seep into the cake and create a super moist, flavorful dessert.

Can I make a white Texas Sheet Cake instead of chocolate?

A white Texas Sheet Cake is made similarly but uses vanilla extract and white granulated sugar and would omit the cocoa powder. It’s perfect for those who prefer a vanilla flavor but still want the moist, thin texture of a traditional Texas Sheet Cake.

That would be an entirely different recipe. I will be sharing that coming up – so stay tuned. I don’t have an easy swap for changing this recipe to a white sheet cake.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes. Be careful not to overbake it to maintain its moist texture.

Storage

Don’t worry, you won’t have many leftovers. At my house, this Texas sheet cake recipe always gets devoured long before that step.

Refrigerator

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps keep it fresh and prevents the frosting from melting. Let the cake come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Freezer

You can freeze Texas Sheet Cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Tips

I don’t know if there is such a thing as the perfect dessert. This one certainly comes close though!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Helps the batter mix more evenly.
• Brown the butter: Adds a rich, nutty flavor to the cake.
• Line your pan with parchment paper: Makes it easier to remove the cake from the pan.
• Mix dry ingredients well: Ensures an even distribution of baking soda and cocoa powder.
• Pour frosting over warm cake: Allows the frosting to seep into the cake, making it extra moist.

Ingredients

Don’t skip out on those chopped pecans. You’ve gotta balance that sweet tooth with a little crunch.

Cake

• Butter
• Cocoa powder
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Sour cream
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs

Frosting

• Butter
• Cocoa powder
• Milk
• Confectioner’s sugar
• Chopped pecans

How to Make Texas Sheet Cake

Chocolate lovers unite! This is going to be your new favorite cake. It’s got flavor and texture the size of Texas itself!

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease an 18×13 inch baking pan.
2. Melt the butter over medium heat in a saucepan. 
3. Whisk in the cocoa powder until well combined. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
4. Mix the flour, granulated sugar, and baking soda in a bowl.
5. Slowly add the cooled butter and cocoa mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until well combined.
6. Mix in the sour cream and eggs to the batter until smooth.
7. Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan and spread it into a smooth, even layer. 
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Frosting

1. While the cake is baking, make the frosting by melting the butter in a saucepan. 
2. Stir in the cocoa powder and milk. 
3. Remove from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. 
4. Whisk in the confectioner’s sugar until smooth.

Decorate

1. Once the cake is baked and slightly cooled, pour the frosting over the warm cake and spread evenly with a spatula.
2. Sprinkle the top with the chopped pecans for decoration.
3. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Kitchen Supplies You’ll Need for Texas Sheet Cake

Not only is it delicious, it’s also the easiest chocolate cake to make. That’s important in my book. A classic cake shouldn’t be complicated.

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Spatula
• 18×13 inch jelly roll pan or half sheet pan
• Parchment paper
• Toothpick
• Cooling rack

What to Serve With Texas Sheet Cake

Good news. You know what to do here. Your favorite desserts almost always go with the following foods.

• Vanilla ice cream: A classic pairing that complements the rich chocolate flavor.
• Whipped cream: Light and fluffy, perfect for topping each slice.
• Fresh berries: Adds a tart contrast to the sweet cake.
• Hot coffee or tea: Enhances the flavors and provides a warm pairing.
• Milk: A classic choice that goes well with any chocolate dessert.

Why You Should Make Texas Sheet Cake

Got a big crowd coming over? Well it’s a good thing you’ve now got this recipe! Make sure you save that recipe card for later.

• Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
• Perfect for large gatherings: The large size makes it great for serving a crowd.
• Rich chocolate flavor: A chocolate lover’s dream.
• Moist texture: The warm frosting makes the cake incredibly moist.
• Classic recipe: A beloved Southern classic that never goes out of style.

Variations and Add-Ins for Texas Sheet Cake

No need to stick to the original recipe (though it is pretty awesome). Feel free to try out a couple of these ideas, and let me know how it goes!

• Add almond extract: For a subtle, nutty flavor.
• Use different nuts: Walnuts or almonds instead of pecans.
• Mix in chocolate chips: For an extra burst of chocolate.
• Top with coconut: Adds a tropical twist.
• Incorporate coffee: Brewed coffee in the batter enhances the chocolate flavor.

If you love this easy cake recipe, you’re going to love these other single-layer cake recipes too. Please click each link below to find the easy, printable recipe!

More Sheet Cakes to Try

Salted Caramel Mocha Sheet Cake

Peanut Butter Cake with Maple Frosting

Confetti Cake – Funfetti Cake

Fruit Cocktail Cake

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