Texas Sheet Cake

Texas Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that brings joy to any gathering. This soft, chocolatey cake spreads easily, making it perfect for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. Topped with a warm fudge-like pecan frosting, it’s a treat that satisfies every chocolate lover’s cravings. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just want a sweet indulgence, Texas Sheet Cake is sure to impress with its rich texture and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and minimal steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Deliciously Rich Flavor: The combination of cocoa powder and pecans creates a decadent taste that pleases everyone.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday, birthday, or casual get-together, this cake fits right in.
• Generous Servings: The large sheet cake yields 15 servings, making it ideal for sharing with friends and family.
• Moist and Tender Texture: The use of sour cream ensures the cake remains moist and fluffy.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Texas Sheet Cake experience seamless, gather your kitchen tools before you start. Having everything ready will help you move through the process smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet (10×15 inches)
• Parchment paper (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: A stand mixer saves time and effort while ensuring all ingredients are combined thoroughly.
• Saucepan: A saucepan is essential for melting butter and creating the rich chocolate base for the cake.
• Baking sheet: The right size baking sheet allows the cake to bake evenly.

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.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Mixture

1. In a saucepan over low heat, melt 1 cup unsalted butter.
2. Add 1 cup water and 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, then bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together 1/2 cup sour cream and 2 large eggs. Set aside.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In the bowl of your stand mixer:
1. Combine 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 well combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Chocolate Mixture

Once the chocolate mixture has cooled enough to touch:
1. Gradually beat it into the flour mixture on low speed until fully mixed.
2. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan:
1. Bake in the preheated oven for 22–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

While baking:
1. In a saucepan, combine 6 tablespoons whole milk, additional 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, and additional 1/2 cup unsalted butter.
2. Bring to a boil then remove from heat.
3. Stir in 4 cups confectioners sugar and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. Fold in chopped pecans until blended.

Step 8: Frost the Cake

Once your cake is out of the oven:
1. Spread frosting over warm cake for an irresistible finish.

Enjoy your homemade 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 for a celebration or just a sweet treat at home, serving it right enhances the experience.

For a Classic Dessert

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.
• Pair with a dollop of whipped cream to add lightness.

As a Party Treat

• Cut into small squares and serve on platters for easy sharing at gatherings.
• Arrange with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color and flavor.

For Afternoon Tea

• Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon pick-me-up.
• Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.

With Creative Toppings

• Drizzle caramel sauce over the frosting for added sweetness.
• Add sprinkles on top for festive occasions, making it visually appealing.

How to Perfect Texas Sheet Cake

To ensure your Texas Sheet Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring your eggs and sour cream to room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm your oven is at the right temperature for even baking.
• Cool the Cake Completely: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before frosting; this helps the frosting set better.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and cocoa powder are fresh for optimal rise and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Texas Sheet Cake

Pairing side dishes with Texas Sheet Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy ice cream complements the chocolate flavors beautifully and adds a cold element.
3. Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
4. Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a delightful texture when served alongside the cake.
5. Chocolate Mousse: For true chocolate lovers, pairing with mousse intensifies the chocolate experience.
6. Pecan Pie Bars: The nutty flavor of pecan pie bars complements the cake’s topping while adding variety to your dessert table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Texas Sheet Cake, it’s easy to stumble into some common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to watch out for:

• Overmixing the Batter – Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir just until ingredients are combined for a lighter texture.
• Skipping the Cooling Step – Failing to let the cocoa mixture cool can cause scrambled eggs when mixed with the batter. Allow it to cool slightly before combining.
• Incorrect Baking Time – Baking too long or too short can ruin your cake’s texture. Start checking at 22 minutes for doneness with a toothpick.
• Not Prepping the Pan Properly – Skipping greasing or lining can result in a stuck cake. Always grease and flour your pan or use parchment paper for easy removal.
• Ignoring Ingredient Temperatures – Using cold eggs and sour cream can affect how well they blend into the batter. Make sure they are at room temperature.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 5 days.
• Make sure the cake is completely cooled before covering it.

Freezing Texas Sheet Cake

• Wrap slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Label bags with the date for easy reference.

Reheating Texas Sheet Cake

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat slices wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm slices gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have about Texas Sheet Cake:

What makes Texas Sheet Cake different?

Texas Sheet Cake is known for its moist texture and rich chocolate flavor, often topped with a fudge-like frosting that sets it apart from other cakes.

Can I make Texas Sheet Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors may even improve overnight.

How should I serve Texas Sheet Cake?

Slice into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect for gatherings or as a sweet treat any time!

What can I substitute if I don’t have pecans?

You can use walnuts or simply omit nuts entirely if you prefer a nut-free version of Texas Sheet Cake.

Final Thoughts

Texas Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that combines rich chocolate flavors with an irresistible fudge frosting. Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual get-togethers. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite nuts or even experimenting with different frostings!

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Texas Sheet Cake

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 15 servings 1x

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Description

Texas Sheet Cake is a crowd-pleasing dessert that combines a soft, moist chocolate cake with a rich, fudge-like pecan frosting. This delightful treat is perfect for any gathering, from birthdays to casual family get-togethers. With its generous servings and easy preparation, it’s an ideal choice for those looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of cocoa powder and crunchy pecans creates a decadent flavor profile that satisfies every chocolate lover’s cravings. Enjoy this classic American dessert warm or at room temperature, and watch it disappear from the dessert table!

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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
• 6 tablespoons whole milk
• 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cups confectioners sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10×15-inch baking sheet.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter, then add water and cocoa powder, bringing it to a boil. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. In a small bowl, whisk sour cream and eggs together.
4. In your stand mixer bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix in the sour cream mixture until well combined.
5. Gradually add the cooled chocolate mixture to the batter until fully mixed.
6. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 22–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. For the frosting, combine milk, cocoa powder, and butter in a saucepan; bring to a boil then remove from heat. Stir in confectioners’ sugar and vanilla; fold in chopped pecans.
8. Spread frosting over the warm cake.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece (100g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 45g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 40mg