This iconic Southern dessert has been gracing potlucks, family gatherings, and church socials for generations, and for good reason. Here is a recipe for this classic treat that’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
What Makes Texas Sheet Cake Special?
Texas sheet cake is a large, thin chocolate cake that’s incredibly moist and fluffy, with a hint of cinnamon that tickles your taste buds. But the real star of the show? That rich, velvety chocolate frosting studded with crunchy walnuts that’s poured over the cake while it’s still warm. It’s a texture and flavor combination that’s simply irresistible!
This recipe yields a generous 12-16 servings, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or ensuring you have leftovers for midnight snacking (we won’t judge!).
Texas Sheet Cake Recipe
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup water
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup milk
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
Let’s Bake Some Magic!
- Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10×15 inch baking pan and set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set this mixture aside.
- Create Chocolate Base: In a medium saucepan, combine butter, cocoa powder, and water. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the hot chocolate mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Add Remaining Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla until well blended.
- Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Frosting Time: While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting. In a saucepan, combine butter, cocoa, and milk. Heat until the butter is melted, stirring constantly.
- Finish the Frosting: Remove from heat and stir in powdered sugar, vanilla, and chopped walnuts until smooth.
- The Grand Finale: Pour the warm frosting over the hot cake as soon as it comes out of the oven. Spread evenly and let cool before serving.
Pro Tips for Texas Sheet Cake Success
- Don’t Overbake: The key to a moist cake is to not overbake it. Start checking at 20 minutes.
- Frosting Consistency: If your frosting seems too thick, add a splash of milk. Too thin? A bit more powdered sugar will do the trick.
- Nut Alternatives: Not a fan of walnuts? Try pecans or leave them out entirely for a smooth frosting.
- Cinnamon Magic: Don’t skip the cinnamon in the cake batter. It adds a subtle warmth that complements the chocolate beautifully.
Serving Your Masterpiece
Serve this cake at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. It’s perfect on its own, but if you’re feeling indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it to the next level. Store any leftovers (if there are any!) in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
There you have it, folks – the ultimate Texas Sheet Cake recipe that’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because it’s Tuesday, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience a true taste of Southern hospitality.
Happy baking, y’all! 🍫🎂
Did you try this recipe? We’d love to see your creations! Share your photos and tag us on social media using #TexasSheetCakeMagic
