Texas Sheet Cake

Texas Sheet Cake is a beloved dessert that brings together the rich flavors of chocolate and the crunch of pecans, making it perfect for any gathering. This soft, homemade cake is baked in a large sheet pan, allowing for easy serving and sharing. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a potluck, or just craving something sweet, Texas Sheet Cake will impress with its warm fudge-like frosting and delightful texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This cake requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Rich Chocolate Flavor: The combination of cocoa powder and butter creates a deep chocolate flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Sharing: Baked in a sheet pan, this cake easily serves 15 people, making it ideal for parties and gatherings.
• Customizable Frosting: You can adjust the sweetness or add toppings like extra nuts or sprinkles to suit your taste.
• Moist Texture: The addition of sour cream ensures that this cake stays moist and tender even after baking.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious world of Texas Sheet Cake, gather your essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• 10×15 inch baking pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing ingredients easier and ensures even blending without manual effort.
• Saucepan: Perfect for melting butter and combining liquid ingredients over low heat without burning.
• Whisk: Great for achieving a smooth batter by thoroughly mixing eggs, sour cream, and dry ingredients.

Ingredients

Texas Sheet Cake is a soft homemade chocolate cake made in a large baking sheet topped with warm fudge-like pecan frosting.

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 oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 10×15 inch pan. Alternatively, line a 10×15 pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Mixture

Melt the 1 cup unsalted butter on low in a saucepan. Add the 1 cup water and 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder. Bring mixture to a boil then remove from heat. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup sour cream and 2 large eggs.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the following:
– 2 cups all purpose flour
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt

Beat in the sour cream and egg mixture until combined. Once the chocolate mixture has cooled enough to touch, beat it into the flour mixture on low speed until fully mixed.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

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

Step 6: Prepare the Frosting

About halfway through baking, make the frosting. Combine:
– 6 tablespoons whole milk
– Additional 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– Additional 1/2 cup unsalted butter

Bring to boil then remove from heat. Stir in:
– 4 cups confectioners sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Fold in:
– 1 cup pecans (chopped)

Mix until blended.

Step 7: Frost the Cake

Spread frosting over warm cake for best results. Enjoy your delicious Texas Sheet Cake!

How to Serve Texas Sheet Cake

Texas Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a family dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience with this rich chocolate cake.

Classic Slice

• A simple slice of Texas Sheet Cake is perfect for any occasion. The moist cake paired with creamy frosting makes for an unforgettable treat.

A La Mode

• Serve your cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, fudgy texture of the cake.

With Fresh Berries

• Enhance your dessert by adding fresh strawberries or raspberries. Their tartness complements the sweetness of the cake and adds a pop of color.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce over the cake creates an indulgent twist. It adds extra sweetness and pairs well with the chocolate flavor.

Coffee Pairing

• Enjoy your Texas Sheet Cake with a cup of coffee or espresso. The bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness perfectly.

For Special Occasions

• Decorate slices with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for birthdays or celebrations. This gives an elegant touch to your serving.

How to Perfect Texas Sheet Cake

Creating the best Texas Sheet Cake involves attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring that butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature helps them mix better, resulting in a fluffier cake.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to avoid a dense texture in your cake.
• Check Oven Temperature: An accurate oven temperature is crucial; consider using an oven thermometer if you’re unsure.
• Cool Before Frosting: Allow the cake to cool slightly before adding frosting. This prevents it from melting and ensures a beautiful finish.
• Frost While Warm: Apply frosting while the cake is still warm for easy spreading and enhanced flavor absorption.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cake covered at room temperature or in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Texas Sheet Cake

Pairing side dishes with Texas Sheet Cake can elevate your meal experience. Consider these options for a delightful spread.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: Adds creaminess and balances out the richness of the chocolate.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light complement to the heavy dessert.
3. Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream enhances every bite without overwhelming it.
4. Chocolate Mousse: For chocolate lovers, mousse offers a decadent pairing that matches well with Texas Sheet Cake’s flavors.
5. Pecan Pie Bars: These bars echo the pecans in the cake for a harmonious dessert table theme.
6. Coffee or Tea: Both beverages serve as excellent accompaniments, enhancing flavors while providing warmth after dessert.
7. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can create interesting flavor combinations alongside sweet desserts.
8. Milkshakes: Thick milkshakes add fun and nostalgia, making for a deliciously indulgent pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Texas Sheet Cake can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs and butter can lead to an uneven batter. Always let your butter and eggs come to room temperature before mixing.

• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make the cake dry. Use the spoon-and-level method to measure your flour accurately.

• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can result in a tough texture. Mix just until combined, especially after adding the cocoa mixture.

• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different. Start checking for doneness a few minutes early by inserting a toothpick in the center of the cake.

• Not using fresh ingredients: Stale baking soda or old cocoa powder can affect the cake’s rise and flavor. Always check expiration dates on your ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Texas Sheet Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to one week in the refrigerator.
• Place wax paper between layers if stacking, to prevent sticking.

Freezing Texas Sheet Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to three months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy again.

Reheating Texas Sheet Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.

• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.

• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Cover and warm for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Texas Sheet Cake unique?

Texas Sheet Cake is known for its moist texture and rich chocolate flavor, topped with a warm fudge-like frosting that elevates it above standard chocolate cakes.

Can I make Texas Sheet Cake gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup to achieve similar results.

How do I store leftover Texas Sheet Cake?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze it for longer storage.

What are some variations of Texas Sheet Cake?

You can customize your Texas Sheet Cake by adding flavors like coffee or almond extract, or mix in additional nuts or chocolate chips into the batter.

Can I use different nuts for the frosting?

Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, walnuts or even almonds can add delicious flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Texas Sheet Cake is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Its rich chocolate flavor pairs well with various toppings and mix-ins, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick with classic pecans or try something new, this cake is sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and discover why it’s beloved by many!

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Texas Sheet Cake

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Texas Sheet Cake is a crowd-pleasing dessert that combines rich chocolate flavors with a delightful pecan crunch. This soft, moist cake is baked in a large sheet pan, making it easy to serve at gatherings, birthdays, or any sweet craving. Topped with a warm fudge-like frosting, this cake is simple to make and perfect for bakers of all skill levels. The addition of sour cream ensures a tender crumb that keeps the cake moist, while customizable frosting options allow you to tailor it to your taste. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with ice cream or fresh berries, Texas Sheet Cake is sure to impress.

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

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 cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup butter
• 4 cups confectioners sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10×15 inch baking pan.
2. In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter; add water and cocoa powder. Bring to a boil and set aside.
3. In a bowl, whisk together sour cream and eggs.
4. In a stand mixer bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix in the egg mixture followed by the cooled chocolate mixture until blended.
5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 22-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. For the frosting: Boil milk, cocoa powder, and butter in a saucepan; remove from heat and stir in confectioners sugar and vanilla. Fold in pecans.
7. Spread frosting over warm cake.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 70g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 34g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 40mg