Texas Sheet Cake Recipe

Texas Sheet Cake is a beloved classic that stands out not only for its rich, chocolatey flavor but also for its simplicity and ease of preparation. This cake is a crowd-pleaser, with its tender, moist crumb and a layer of indulgent, glossy icing that melts into the cake as it cools. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or celebrating a special occasion, Texas Sheet Cake is the perfect choice for its versatility and universal appeal. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like home with every bite.

This recipe is a go-to for any event, be it a potluck, a family reunion, or a weekday treat. The combination of a dense yet fluffy cake with a smooth, decadent icing creates a harmony of textures and flavors that is hard to resist. It’s also an excellent option when you need to whip up something quickly without compromising on taste or quality.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The success of your Texas Sheet Cake hinges on using the right ingredients, each contributing to the cake’s unique texture and flavor profile.

The cake’s base is built on rich, creamy butter, which, when combined with water and unsweetened cocoa powder, forms the backbone of this indulgent dessert. All-purpose flour provides the necessary structure, while white sugar sweetens the batter, creating a tender crumb. Baking soda acts as the leavening agent, giving the cake its airy rise, and a pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor. The addition of sour cream brings a subtle tang and extra moisture, ensuring the cake remains soft and luscious. Finally, eggs bind everything together, contributing to the cake’s velvety texture.

The icing is equally essential in making this cake unforgettable. Butter, milk, and unsweetened cocoa powder are combined to create a silky-smooth base, while confectioners’ sugar sweetens and thickens the mixture to the perfect consistency. Vanilla extract adds a warm, aromatic note that balances the richness of the chocolate. For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, chopped walnuts can be added for texture, though they are entirely optional.

For those looking to elevate the cake further, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter or a dash of espresso powder to the icing. These subtle enhancements can add depth and complexity to the flavor, making your Texas Sheet Cake truly stand out.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Texas Sheet Cake

Achieving the perfect Texas Sheet Cake requires attention to detail at each step, from preparing your kitchen to applying the final layer of icing.

Before you begin, ensure your kitchen is equipped with the necessary tools: a large mixing bowl, a saucepan, a whisk, and a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan. Proper preparation is key, so start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and thoroughly greasing and flouring the jelly roll pan to prevent the cake from sticking.

To make the cake batter, begin by combining the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt—in a large mixing bowl. Add the sour cream and eggs, mixing until the batter is smooth and lump-free. This initial mixture sets the stage for a tender, well-risen cake.

Next, melt the butter over low heat in a small saucepan. Gradually stir in the water and cocoa powder, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. The heat helps to bloom the cocoa, intensifying its flavor. Once it reaches a boil, remove the pan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly before blending it into the flour and egg mixture. Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform baking.

Bake the cake in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This short baking time is one of the reasons this recipe is so convenient, allowing you to have a homemade cake ready in no time.

While the cake is baking, you can prepare the icing. In a large saucepan, combine the butter, milk, and cocoa powder. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it reaches a boil, then promptly remove it from the heat. Stir in the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract until the icing is smooth and glossy. If you’re adding walnuts, fold them in gently at this stage.

As soon as the cake comes out of the oven and is still warm, spread the icing over the top. The warmth of the cake helps the icing to meld with the surface, creating a seamless, shiny layer that is the hallmark of a perfect Texas Sheet Cake.

Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

Substitutions and Variations:
If you’re looking to make the recipe a bit lighter, consider using Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. You can also substitute almond or oat milk in the icing for a dairy-free version.

Even Baking and Texture Tips:
Ensure even baking by spreading the batter uniformly in the pan. For a fluffier cake, sift the flour before adding it to the batter to avoid clumps.

Icing Consistency:
To prevent the icing from becoming grainy, sift the confectioners’ sugar before mixing it into the cocoa mixture. If the icing thickens too much before spreading, gently warm it over low heat.

Storage:
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week. The cake can also be frozen—just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to maintain its freshness.

Pan Size:
If you don’t have a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan, you can use a 9×13-inch pan. Keep in mind that the baking time may need to be adjusted slightly.

Leftovers:
To store leftover cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will keep well at room temperature for a few days, or you can refrigerate it for up to a week.

Nut-Free Option:
If you’re not a fan of walnuts or have a nut allergy, simply omit them from the icing. You could also substitute with pecans or leave the icing plain.

Make-Ahead:
This cake is a great make-ahead option. Bake the cake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Make the icing fresh just before serving for the best texture.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Texas Sheet Cake is rich and decadent, making it the perfect candidate for a variety of complementary pairings.

For beverages, consider serving the cake with a cold glass of milk, which pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate flavor. If you prefer something warm, a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a latte can provide a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the cake. For a more indulgent experience, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can elevate the dessert, creating a delightful hot-and-cold combination.

As for side dishes, the simplicity of this cake allows it to be paired with light, fresh options such as a fruit salad or a berry compote. These fresh flavors will cut through the richness of the cake and provide a balanced finish to the meal.

For those who enjoy a complete dessert experience, consider pairing the cake with other chocolate-themed treats. Chocolate-dipped strawberries or a chocolate mousse can create a dessert spread that is both luxurious and satisfying.

Creative Variations to Try

While the classic Texas Sheet Cake is delicious as is, there are several creative variations you can try to customize the recipe to your liking.

If you’re looking to make individual servings, consider turning the recipe into cupcakes. Simply divide the batter into cupcake tins and adjust the baking time accordingly. This is a fun option for parties or gatherings where guests can easily grab a cupcake.

To add unique flavors to the icing, try infusing it with a touch of espresso powder or a hint of peppermint extract. These subtle additions can enhance the chocolate flavor and provide a surprising twist.

For those with dietary restrictions, a gluten-free version of Texas Sheet Cake is possible with the right flour substitutes. Opt for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour to keep the texture and flavor as close to the original as possible.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

When it comes to serving Texas Sheet Cake, presentation is key to making it look as good as it tastes.

For a clean, professional look, use a sharp knife to slice the cake into even squares or rectangles. Wipe the knife between cuts to ensure clean edges.

Garnishing the cake can also add an extra touch of elegance. Consider sprinkling a light dusting of powdered sugar over the top or adding a few fresh berries for a pop of color. If you’ve included nuts in the icing, reserve a few to sprinkle on top as a final garnish.

For gatherings, consider serving the cake on a beautiful cake stand or platter. You can even line the platter with a few fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for a touch of sophistication. This presentation will not only make the cake look stunning but also make your guests feel like they’re indulging in a truly special treat.

Ingredients

Cake:

• 1 cup butter
• 1 cup water
• 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups white sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 eggs

Icing:

• ½ cup butter
• 6 tablespoons milk
• 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (Optional)

Instructions

Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and prepare a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan by greasing and flouring it.

For the cake: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Add the sour cream and eggs, mixing well until the batter is smooth.

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Gradually stir in the water and cocoa powder, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it reaches a boil, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.

Once cooled, blend the cocoa mixture into the flour and egg mixture until thoroughly combined. Pour the prepared batter into the jelly roll pan, spreading it evenly.

Bake the cake in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

While the cake is baking, prepare the icing: In a large saucepan, combine the butter, milk, and cocoa powder. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it reaches a boil. Remove from the heat immediately.

Stir in the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract until the icing is smooth and creamy. If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts for added texture.

Once the cake is out of the oven and still warm, spread the icing evenly over the top.

Serve warm and enjoy this delicious Texas Sheet Cake!