Texas Sheet Cake

Texas Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that brings the rich flavor of chocolate to your gatherings. This soft homemade chocolate cake, baked on a large sheet, is topped with a warm, fudge-like pecan frosting that adds a special touch. Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or family get-togethers, Texas Sheet Cake is as easy to make as it is delicious. Its unique qualities and generous servings make it a favorite among chocolate lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This cake comes together quickly and does not require any special baking skills.
• Feeds a Crowd: With its large size, Texas Sheet Cake is perfect for parties and events.
• Rich Chocolate Flavor: The combination of cocoa powder and frosting offers an indulgent chocolate experience.
• Versatile Topping Options: While pecans are traditional, feel free to customize the frosting with your favorite nuts or sprinkles.
• Moist and Tender: The addition of sour cream ensures that each slice remains soft and moist.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on this amazing Texas Sheet Cake recipe, gather your tools for an efficient baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing the batter easy and ensures even consistency.
• Saucepan: Ideal for melting ingredients without burning them.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are vital for perfect results in baking.

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 your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 10×15 inch pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Mixture

Melt the 1 cup unsalted butter in a saucepan over low heat. Add the 1 cup water and 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder. Bring this mixture to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup sour cream and the 2 large eggs. Make sure they are well combined before adding them to the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Mix these dry ingredients until evenly blended. Then, add in the sour cream and egg mixture from Step 3.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Mixture

Once the chocolate mixture has cooled enough to touch, beat it into the flour mixture on low speed until just combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

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

Step 7: Make the Frosting

While the cake bakes, prepare your frosting. In a saucepan, combine:
– 6 tablespoons whole milk
– Additional 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– Additional 1/2 cup unsalted butter

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

Fold in:
– 1 cup chopped pecans, mixing until everything is well blended.

Step 8: Frost Your Cake

Once your cake has finished baking, immediately spread the warm frosting over it while it’s still hot. Enjoy your delicious Texas Sheet Cake!

How to Serve Texas Sheet Cake

Texas Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying a slice at home, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Classic Slice

• Simple yet satisfying, serve a warm slice of Texas Sheet Cake topped with the rich pecan frosting.

A La Mode

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a creamy contrast to the warm cake, making it extra indulgent.

With Fresh Berries

• Pair your slice with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the chocolate.

Drizzled with Caramel

• For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle caramel sauce over the frosting before serving.

Coffee Companion

• Serve alongside a cup of coffee or espresso to enhance the chocolate flavors and create a cozy dessert moment.

How to Perfect Texas Sheet Cake

Creating the perfect Texas Sheet Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out moist and delicious every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Let butter, eggs, and sour cream sit out before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than the light texture you want.

• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to test if your cake is done. Insert it into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.

• Cool before frosting: Allow the cake to cool slightly before adding the frosting. This prevents melting and helps the frosting set nicely on top.

Best Side Dishes for Texas Sheet Cake

Texas Sheet Cake pairs well with several side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds a sweet touch that balances the richness of the cake.

2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and acidity, cutting through the sweetness of the cake.

3. Chocolate Mousse: For chocolate lovers, a small serving of rich mousse enhances the dessert experience without overpowering it.

4. Pecan Pie Bars: These bars echo the pecan flavor in the frosting while offering another delicious texture.

5. Ice Cream Sundaes: Create mini sundaes using scoops of ice cream topped with nuts and fudge sauce for an extra treat.

6. Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses can provide a savory counterpoint to the sweet cake, making for an interesting pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Texas Sheet Cake can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can hinder your results.

• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined to keep the texture light and airy.
• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Precision is key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure accurate amounts for the best outcome.
• Skipping the cooling step: Frosting a hot cake can melt it away. Allow the cake to cool slightly before adding the frosting for a better finish.
• Using cold eggs or butter: Cold ingredients can affect how well they combine. Bring eggs and butter to room temperature for optimal mixing.
• Ignoring oven temperatures: Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your Texas Sheet Cake bakes evenly without overcooking or undercooking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Texas Sheet Cake in an airtight container.
• The cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• You can also cover it with plastic wrap for added protection.

Freezing Texas Sheet Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For best quality, try to freeze it before frosting.

Reheating Texas Sheet Cake

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes, covered with foil.
• Microwave: Heat one slice at a time on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds until warm. Be cautious not to overheat, as it may dry out.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat with a lid on. Heat until warmed through, which usually takes about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Texas Sheet Cake?

Texas Sheet Cake is a rich chocolate cake baked in a large sheet pan, topped with warm fudge-like frosting and pecans. It’s perfect for gatherings due to its easy serving size.

How do I know when my Texas Sheet Cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is ready!

Can I customize my Texas Sheet Cake?

Absolutely! You can add different nuts, swap pecans for walnuts, or even mix in chocolate chips for extra sweetness.

What should I serve with Texas Sheet Cake?

Texas Sheet Cake pairs well with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. A scoop of ice cream adds an extra layer of deliciousness!

How long does Texas Sheet Cake last?

When stored properly, this cake remains fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Texas Sheet Cake is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. With its soft chocolate layers and rich frosting, it’s sure to impress at any gathering. Feel free to customize it with your favorite nuts or toppings! Give this delightful dessert a try; you won’t be disappointed!