Texas Sheet Cake: A Classic Southern Delight

Texas Sheet Cake is a beloved Southern dessert known for its rich chocolate flavor and moist, tender crumb. This cake is perfect for large gatherings, potlucks, and celebrations. With its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing taste, it's no wonder this recipe has become a staple in many households. Let's explore the ingredients and steps to make this classic Texas Sheet Cake.

1. Ingredients

To make a Texas Sheet Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)

2. Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Texas Sheet Cake:

texas sheet cale

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 13x18-inch baking sheet or jelly roll pan.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Heat Wet Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, vegetable oil, water, and cocoa powder. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once boiling, remove from heat.
  4. Mix Batter: Pour the hot cocoa mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Add the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

  1. Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 3: Prepare the Frosting

  1. Heat Butter and Cocoa: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the cocoa powder and milk, and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.
  2. Mix Frosting: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the saucepan, stirring until smooth. If using, stir in the chopped pecans.

Step 4: Frost the Cake

  1. Pour and Spread: While the cake is still warm, pour the hot frosting over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  2. Cool and Set: Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into squares and serving.

3. Tips for Perfect Texas Sheet Cake

Use Fresh Ingredients

  • Buttermilk: Fresh buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps achieve the cake's tender crumb. If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

Spread Evenly

  • Even Layers: When pouring the batter and frosting, spread them evenly to ensure a uniform cake with consistent flavor and texture in every bite.

Add Toppings

  • Pecans: While chopped pecans are optional, they add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the rich chocolate.

4. Serving Suggestions

Perfect for Gatherings

  • Large Crowds: Texas Sheet Cake is ideal for feeding a crowd, making it perfect for potlucks, family reunions, and celebrations.

texas sheet cale

Pair with Ice Cream

  • A La Mode: Serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert experience.

5. Conclusion

Texas Sheet Cake is a classic Southern dessert that is both easy to make and incredibly delicious. With its rich chocolate flavor and moist texture, this cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Follow the steps and tips provided to create this beloved treat and enjoy a taste of Southern hospitality with every bite.




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