Texas Sheet Cake

Texas Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that never fails to impress. This soft, homemade chocolate cake is baked in a large sheet and topped with a warm, fudge-like pecan frosting. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat after dinner, this Texas Sheet Cake stands out with its rich flavor and moist texture. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Feeding a Crowd: The generous size of this sheet cake makes it ideal for serving at gatherings or celebrations.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and pecans creates a rich taste that pleases everyone’s palate.
• Versatile Topping Options: While the pecan frosting is delicious, you can also experiment with different toppings like walnuts or berries.
• Quick Preparation: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this cake ready in no time!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking this delicious Texas Sheet Cake, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• 10×15 inch baking pan
• Whisk
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool saves time and effort when mixing batter. It ensures thorough blending without tiring your arms.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to easily prepare different components of the recipe simultaneously.
• Saucepan: A good saucepan is essential for melting butter and combining wet ingredients seamlessly.

Ingredients

To create the perfect Texas Sheet Cake, gather the following ingredients:

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:
1. Melt the 1 cup unsalted butter.
2. Add in the 1 cup water and 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove from heat. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together the 1/2 cup sour cream and 2 large eggs. Ensure they are well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In the bowl of your stand mixer:
1. Combine the 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 cups granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
2. Beat in the sour cream and egg mixture until just combined.
3. Once the chocolate mixture is cool enough to touch, beat it into the flour mixture on low speed until fully mixed.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour 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 6: Make the Frosting

While your cake is baking:
1. In another saucepan, combine 6 tablespoons whole milk, an additional 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, and an additional 1/2 cup unsalted butter.
2. Bring this mixture to a boil, then remove from heat.
3. Stir in the remaining 4 cups confectioners sugar, along with 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract.
4. Fold in the chopped 1 cup pecans, mixing thoroughly until blended.

Step 7: Frosting Application

Once your cake has finished baking:
Spread the warm frosting over the top while it’s still hot for maximum flavor absorption.

Enjoy your delicious 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 birthday party, family gathering, or a simple weeknight treat, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate this classic cake.

Classic Served Warm

• Serve the cake warm straight from the oven for a gooey and indulgent experience, allowing the fudge-like frosting to melt into each slice.

À La Mode

• Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm cake, creating a delicious contrast.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Add a handful of fresh berries or sliced fruits on the side. Strawberries or raspberries add a pop of color and tanginess that complements the rich chocolate flavor.

Whipped Cream Topping

• For an extra creamy touch, dollop whipped cream on top of each slice. This light topping balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

Coffee Pairing

• Serve with a cup of freshly brewed coffee. The bitterness of the coffee enhances the chocolate flavor and makes for an inviting dessert experience.

Chocolate Sauce Drizzle

• Drizzle additional chocolate sauce over each slice for chocolate lovers. This adds an extra layer of richness and visual appeal.

How to Perfect Texas Sheet Cake

Perfecting your Texas Sheet Cake can take it from good to exceptional. Here are some tips to ensure you create the best version possible.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix your batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake texture instead of a light and fluffy one.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to make sure your oven is at the correct temperature. An inaccurate oven can result in uneven baking.
• Cool Before Frosting: Allow the cake to cool slightly before adding frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting off and ensures it sets nicely on top of the warm cake.
• Toast Pecans: For added flavor, toast your chopped pecans before adding them to the frosting. This enhances their nuttiness and adds depth to your cake.

Best Side Dishes for Texas Sheet Cake

Pairing side dishes with Texas Sheet Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options that complement this sweet treat perfectly.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances out the rich chocolate flavor.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and acidity that cuts through the sweetness.
3. Coffee: Brewed coffee offers a bitter contrast, enhancing the chocolate notes in the cake.
4. Chocolate Milkshake: Indulge further with a thick milkshake for an ultimate dessert experience.
5. Chilled Lemonade: The tartness from lemonade refreshes your palate after each sweet bite.
6. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some caramel sauce over slices for an added layer of flavor that complements chocolate well.
7. Nutty Granola: A crunchy granola on the side provides texture contrast alongside the soft cake.
8. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a lighter side dish that still feels indulgent.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a perfect Texas Sheet Cake can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can affect the batter’s texture. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth mix.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science, and inaccurate measurements can ruin your cake. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for precision.
• Ignoring oven calibration: Every oven is different. Always check that your oven temperature is accurate to avoid undercooking or overcooking the cake.
• Frosting too early: Frosting the cake while it’s still hot can make it melt into a puddle. Wait until the cake cools down for perfectly set frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Texas Sheet Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Cut into individual pieces before freezing for easy thawing.

Reheating Texas Sheet Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering with a lid for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Texas Sheet Cake that will help you master this delicious dessert!

What is Texas Sheet Cake?

Texas Sheet Cake is a rich, moist chocolate cake baked in a large sheet pan and topped with decadent chocolate frosting and pecans.

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

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready!

Can I make Texas Sheet Cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cake a day ahead and frost it just before serving for optimal freshness.

How do I customize my Texas Sheet Cake?

Feel free to add toppings like sprinkles, coconut, or different nuts based on your taste preferences!

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends designed for baking.

Final Thoughts

Texas Sheet Cake is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. It’s perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite toppings or flavors – experiment and make this recipe your own!

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Texas Sheet Cake

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Indulge in the decadent delight of Texas Sheet Cake, a moist and rich chocolate dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This homemade cake is baked in a generous sheet pan, making it ideal for parties or family gatherings. Topped with a warm, fudge-like frosting featuring crunchy pecans, each bite is a delightful experience that will leave your guests clamoring for more. With its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing flavor, this Texas Sheet Cake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire—try it once and you’ll be hooked!

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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 (for frosting)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for frosting)
• 4 cups confectioners sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup pecans (chopped)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 10×15 inch baking pan.
2. In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter, then add water and cocoa powder. Bring to a boil and set aside to cool.
3. In a bowl, whisk together sour cream and eggs.
4. In a stand mixer, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Add the sour cream mixture followed by the cooled chocolate mixture until well blended.
5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 22-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. For frosting, combine milk, cocoa powder, and butter in a saucepan; bring to a boil. Remove from heat and mix in confectioners’ sugar and chopped pecans.
7. Spread the warm frosting over the cake immediately after removing it from the oven.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 34g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 60mg