Texas Sheet Cake Recipe | The Best Chocolate Sheet Cake

If you’re a fan of indulgent chocolate desserts, this Texas Sheet Cake recipe is about to become your go-to treat. Moist, rich, and topped with a luscious chocolate glaze, this iconic cake is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Why You'll Love This Delicious Dessert

• Easy to Make. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake is beginner-friendly.
• Perfect for Crowds. Baked in a large sheet pan, it’s ideal for serving a big group.
• Rich and Flavorful. The combination of cocoa and buttermilk creates an irresistibly deep chocolate flavor.
• Quick Dessert. Ready in under an hour, from prep to plate.

Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a potluck, this dessert steals the show every time.

What Is Texas Sheet Cake?

Texas Sheet Cake is a classic Southern dessert featuring a thin, moist chocolate cake topped with a warm, glossy chocolate icing. Known for its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, it’s baked in a large jelly roll pan, making it perfect for gatherings.

What Does It Taste Like?

Texas Sheet Cake is a chocolate lover's dream. Its flavor is rich and indulgent, with a deep chocolatey base that’s perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the frosting. The cake itself is incredibly moist and tender, thanks to the use of buttermilk and a warm chocolate batter.

The frosting, poured over the cake while still warm, creates a glossy, fudgy layer that soaks slightly into the surface, adding even more decadence.

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Cake

• All-Purpose Flour- Provides structure and ensures a tender crumb.
• Granulated Sugar- Sweetens the cake while helping achieve a moist texture.
• Unsalted Butter- Adds richness and helps create that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Cocoa Powder- Gives the cake its deep chocolate flavor.
• Buttermilk- Reacts with baking soda to create a tender, fluffy cake.
• Eggs- Bind the ingredients together for a cohesive batter.
• Vanilla Extract- Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Baking Soda & Salt- Ensure the cake rises perfectly and balances the sweetness.

For The Chocolate Frosting

• Unsalted Butter- Forms the base of the glossy glaze.
• Cocoa Powder- Adds rich chocolate flavor to the frosting.
• Powdered Sugar- Sweetens and thickens the frosting for a smooth finish.
• Milk- Helps achieve the perfect frosting consistency.
• Vanilla Extract- Adds a final touch of flavor.
• Chopped Pecans (Optional)- Adds crunch and Southern charm.

How To Make Texas Sheet Cake

1. Prepare the Cake Batter. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch sheet pan or line it with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. In a saucepan, melt the butter, then stir in cocoa powder and water. Bring to a gentle boil, then pour over the dry ingredients, mixing until combined. Add the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
2. Bake the Cake. Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Prepare the Frosting. While the cake bakes, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in cocoa powder and milk, then bring to a gentle simmer. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Frost the Cake. Pour the warm frosting over the hot cake, spreading it quickly and evenly. Sprinkle with chopped pecans if desired.
5. Cool and Serve. Allow the cake to cool at room temperature until the frosting sets. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Tips And Tricks

By following these tips, you’ll achieve a Texas Sheet Cake that’s rich, moist, and irresistibly delicious every time:

• Use Buttermilk. Don’t skip the buttermilk—it’s essential for the moist texture and tangy flavor.
• Frost While Warm. Pouring the frosting over the warm cake helps it soak into the surface for extra richness.
• Room-Temperature Ingredients. Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.

Variations

These variations allow you to customize Texas Sheet Cake to suit any occasion, flavor preference, or dietary need:

• Nut-Free- Skip the pecans or swap them with shredded coconut for a nut-free twist.
• Double Chocolate- Add chocolate chips to the batter for an extra chocolatey kick.
• Spiced Sheet Cake- Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder for added depth of flavor.
• Gluten-Free- Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix.

What To Enjoy With Texas Sheet Cake

Texas sheet cake is a rich, chocolatey dessert that pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Whether you're hosting a gathering or enjoying a slice at home, here are some delicious options to elevate your dessert experience:

• Whipped Cream- A dollop of freshly whipped cream balances the richness.
• Vanilla Ice Cream- The perfect pairing for warm slices of cake.
• Fresh Berries- Adds a pop of freshness and tartness.
• Hot Coffee or Milk- Complements the sweet, chocolatey flavors.

How Long Does It Last?

Texas sheet cake can last up to 4–5 days when stored properly, making it a convenient dessert for gatherings or meal prep. To maintain its freshness, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature.

If your kitchen is particularly warm, you can refrigerate it to extend its shelf life and prevent the frosting from becoming too soft. When refrigerated, the cake stays moist and delicious for up to a week.

Can You Freeze It?

If you’d like to make it ahead or keep leftovers for longer, Texas sheet cake can also be frozen. Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and store in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Properly frozen, it will retain its flavor and texture for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let the cake thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

More Sweet Treats

• Rum Balls
• Apple Upside Down Cake
• Brownie Cookie Mix Cookies
• Lemonade Pie
• Peach Crisp

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