If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that embodies the spirit of Texas—big, bold, and full of flavor—look no further than the iconic Texas Sheet Cake. This beloved treat is a staple at potlucks, family gatherings, and celebrations across the Lone Star State, and for good reason. With its moist, tender crumb, rich chocolate flavor, and velvety frosting studded with pecans, it’s a dessert that’s sure to impress even the most discerning sweet tooth.
In this recipe, we’re going to walk you through how to make the ultimate Texas Sheet Cake from scratch. From preheating the oven to pouring on the luscious frosting, every step is designed to ensure that your cake turns out perfectly every time. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and let’s get baking!
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 espresso shot (optional, but recommended for an extra depth of flavor)
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 6 tablespoons milk
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions:
For the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 13×18 inch baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the cake later on.
- In a small saucepan, combine the butter, water, cocoa powder, and espresso shot (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the sugar, flour, salt, and baking soda.
- Pour the cocoa mixture over the flour mixture and stir until well combined.
- Add the eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract to the batter, and gently mix until everything is fully incorporated.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Place the baking sheet in the middle of the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the cake is set and springs back when lightly touched in the center.
For the Frosting:
- While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the cocoa powder until smooth, then remove the pan from the heat.
- Sift the powdered sugar into the cocoa mixture, then stir in the milk and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and glossy.
- Fold in the chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the frosting.
- As soon as you remove the cake from the oven, pour the warm frosting over the top, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Extra Tips and Tricks:
- For an even richer flavor, try adding a shot of espresso to the cake batter. The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.
- Make sure to sift your dry ingredients before adding them to the batter. This helps to ensure a smooth, lump-free texture in your cake.
- When pouring the frosting over the warm cake, work quickly but carefully to spread it out evenly before it sets.
- If you’re not a fan of pecans, feel free to leave them out or substitute them with chopped walnuts or shredded coconut for a different flavor and texture.
Texas Sheet Cake is the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers everywhere, and with this foolproof recipe, you can enjoy it in the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just because, this cake is sure to be a hit with family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to treat yourself to a slice of pure Texas goodness. Happy baking!
