texas sheet cake
A Texas sheet cake is a chocolate lover’s dream. This classic dessert combines a moist, tender chocolate cake baked in a jelly roll pan with a rich, velvety frosting poured on while still warm. Perfect for gatherings or an indulgent treat, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
The Best Texas Sheet Cake is all about simplicity and bold flavors. With just a few staple ingredients and under 30 minutes of effort, you’ll have a dessert that’s both quick to make and unforgettable.
Key Ingredients for Texas Sheet Cake Magic
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake perfectly while contributing to its moist texture.
- Butter – Adds richness and creates a soft, tender crumb.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Infuses deep chocolate flavor in both the cake and frosting.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure needed for a light yet sturdy cake.
- Sour Cream – Ensures a moist cake with a subtle tang to balance sweetness.
- Eggs – Binds the batter together while adding richness.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the chocolate flavor and adds depth.
- Powdered Sugar – Essential for the creamy, pourable frosting that defines this cake.
Step-by-Step Magic: Making the Best Texas Sheet Cake
- Prep and Heat: Preheat the oven and grease your jelly roll pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Cook the Chocolate Mixture: Heat water, butter, and cocoa in a saucepan until it boils. This step creates the base of the cake’s rich flavor.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Combine the dry ingredients in one bowl and whisk the sour cream mixture separately. Blend everything together for a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into your pan and bake until just set, ensuring a moist texture.
- Frost While Warm: Cook the frosting mixture and pour it over the hot cake. The warmth helps the frosting seep into the cake for an irresistibly gooey finish.
Tips for Texas Sheet Cake Success
To prevent a dry cake, avoid overbaking. Check the cake a few minutes before the suggested time using a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. For ultra-smooth frosting, sift the powdered sugar before whisking it in. This simple step ensures a creamy consistency without lumps.
Storing and Enjoying Leftovers
To keep your Texas sheet cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Refrigerating can alter the cake’s texture, so it’s best to keep it in a cool, dry place. For a warm, just-made experience, microwave a slice for 10–15 seconds before enjoying.
Texas Sheet Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Cake:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup water
Frosting:
- 6 tablespoons milk
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup butter
- 3 3/4 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease an 18×13-inch jelly roll pan.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine water, butter, and cocoa powder. Stir occasionally and bring the mixture to a boil.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Incorporate this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
- Once the chocolate mixture reaches a boil, remove it from the heat and carefully pour it into the batter. Mix thoroughly until smooth and free of lumps.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cake is set.
- While the cake bakes, prepare the frosting.
- In a medium saucepan, combine milk, cocoa powder, and butter. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently. Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth. Use a hand mixer if necessary to eliminate lumps.
- Once the cake has finished baking, pour the hot frosting over the warm cake. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Allow the frosting to set for about 10 minutes before serving.