Texas Sheet Cake Recipe: Taste of Home

The Texas sheet cake is a classic dessert that’s beloved for its rich, chocolatey flavor and moist texture. Known for being a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, family gatherings, and celebrations, this cake is both easy to make and incredibly delicious. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide to creating a Texas sheet cake that captures the true taste of home.

1. Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

  • Flour: 2 cups
  • Sugar: 2 cups
  • Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks)
  • Water: 1 cup
  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: 1/4 cup
  • Buttermilk: 1/2 cup
  • Eggs: 2 large
  • Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
  • Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: 1/4 teaspoon

Frosting Ingredients

  • Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick)
  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: 1/4 cup
  • Milk: 1/3 cup
  • Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
  • Powdered Sugar: 4 cups
  • Chopped Pecans: 1 cup (optional)

2. Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  • Temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour and sugar.
  2. Heat Butter Mixture: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter. Add water and cocoa powder, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat.
  3. Combine Mixtures: Pour the hot cocoa mixture over the flour and sugar. Mix well.
  4. Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Add this mixture to the large bowl and stir until smooth.

texas sheet cake recipe taste of home

Step 3: Bake the Cake

  1. Prepare Pan: Grease a 13x18-inch baking sheet (or jelly roll pan).
  2. Pour Batter: Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
  3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting

  1. Heat Butter Mixture: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter. Add the cocoa powder and milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil and then remove from heat.
  2. Mix in Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth.
  3. Add Pecans: Stir in chopped pecans if using.

Step 5: Frost the Cake

  1. Cool Slightly: Allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan on a wire rack.
  2. Apply Frosting: Pour the warm frosting over the warm cake, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
  3. Set: Let the frosting set before cutting and serving.

3. Tips for Success

Batter Preparation

  • Smooth Mixture: Ensure the batter is well-mixed to avoid lumps, which can affect the cake’s texture.
  • Quick Work: Work quickly when combining the hot butter mixture with the dry ingredients to maintain the batter’s smoothness.

Frosting

  • Warm Frosting: Pour the frosting while it’s still warm to ensure it spreads easily and creates a glossy finish.
  • Optional Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, you can leave them out or replace them with another type of nut or no nuts at all.

Baking

  • Even Spread: Spread the batter evenly in the pan to ensure consistent baking.
  • Doneness Test: Use a toothpick to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

4. Serving Suggestions

Classic Presentation

  • Squares: Cut the cake into squares or rectangles for easy serving.
  • Room Temperature: Serve at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.

texas sheet cake recipe taste of home

Add-Ons

  • Ice Cream: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
  • Fruit Garnish: Add fresh berries or sliced fruit for a colorful and fresh addition.

Storage

  • Airtight Container: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate the cake, but bring it to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

5. Conclusion

Creating a Texas sheet cake that embodies the taste of home is easy with this straightforward recipe. With its rich chocolate flavor, moist texture, and delicious frosting, this cake is sure to become a favorite at any gathering. Follow the steps and tips outlined in this guide to bake a perfect Texas sheet cake that will delight your family and friends. Enjoy the comforting taste of this classic dessert today!




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