Chocolate Texas Sheet Cake: 1 Heavenly Recipe

Name: Chocolate Texas Sheet Cake: 1 Heavenly Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup water; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; For the Frosting:; 1 cup unsalted butter; 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1/3 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

by Jannet Lisa

17 de August de 2025

Jump to Recipe

Chocolate Texas Sheet Cake has always been my go-to for any gathering, and for good reason! The aroma of rich chocolate wafting through the house as it bakes is pure bliss. I remember the first time I made it for a family reunion; everyone raved about how incredibly moist chocolate Texas sheet cake it was, and it disappeared in minutes. This recipe is truly an easy chocolate Texas sheet cake, perfect even if you’re new to baking. The decadent, fudgy frosting is the cherry on top. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Texas Sheet Cake

An unbelievably rich and moist chocolate flavor that melts in your mouth.
Super quick prep time, making it an ideal easy chocolate Texas sheet cake for busy weeknights.
Surprisingly budget-friendly ingredients that deliver big on taste without breaking the bank.
A guaranteed family favorite that kids and adults alike will devour.
The simple frosting is the perfect complement, creating a truly decadent experience.
This is an incredibly easy chocolate Texas sheet cake that even beginner bakers can master.
It’s a classic comfort dessert that brings smiles to any occasion.

Ingredients for Chocolate Texas Sheet Cake

Gathering the right ingredients for Texas sheet cake is the first step to baking this classic. You’ll need 2 cups all-purpose flour for structure, and 2 cups granulated sugar for sweetness and moisture. We’ll also use 1 teaspoon baking soda and 1 teaspoon salt to help the cake rise and balance the flavors. For that signature richness, we have 1 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup water, and 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder. The buttermilk adds a lovely tang and tenderness, so grab 1/2 cup buttermilk. Don’t forget 2 large eggs for binding and richness, plus 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to enhance the chocolate. For the decadent frosting, you’ll need 1 cup unsalted butter, 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 4 cups powdered sugar, 1/3 cup milk, and another 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Chopped pecans are optional but highly recommended for that classic crunch!

How to Make Chocolate Texas Sheet Cake

Let’s get started on this wonderfully easy chocolate Texas sheet cake! Follow these steps to create a truly memorable dessert.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a moment to properly grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan; this prevents any sticking and ensures your beautiful cake comes out perfectly.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 cups granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon salt. Getting these dry ingredients well combined is key to an even bake.
Step 3: In a medium saucepan, melt the 1 cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the 1 cup water and 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder until smooth. Bring this chocolatey mixture to a boil, then immediately remove it from the heat. The aroma at this stage is incredible!
Step 4: Carefully pour the hot chocolate mixture over the dry ingredients you prepared earlier. Mix everything together until it’s just combined. Don’t overmix; we want a tender crumb.
Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup buttermilk, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. This is your wet ingredient base.
Step 6: Add the wet ingredients to the chocolate batter and mix until the batter is smooth and glossy. This is where the magic happens, transforming into the base for your moist chocolate Texas sheet cake.
Step 7: Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly to ensure consistent baking.
Step 8: Bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. This timing is crucial for a quick chocolate sheet cake recipe.

While the cake bakes, let’s whip up that irresistible frosting. In a saucepan, melt the 1 cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder and bring to a boil, then remove from heat.
In a large bowl, combine the 4 cups powdered sugar and 1/3 cup milk. Add the melted chocolate mixture and the remaining 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is gloriously smooth and creamy. Stir in the 1/2 cup chopped pecans if you’re using them for that classic crunch.
As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, pour the warm frosting over the hot cake. Spread it evenly to coat the entire surface.
Let the cake cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving. This allows the frosting to set perfectly, completing the process of how to make chocolate Texas sheet cake.

Pro Tips for the Best Chocolate Texas Sheet Cake

Want to elevate your baking game? These simple tricks will ensure your Chocolate Texas Sheet Cake is a showstopper every single time!

Always use good quality cocoa powder; it makes a huge difference in the depth of flavor.
Don’t overmix the batter once the wet and dry ingredients are combined. Overmixing develops the gluten, leading to a tougher cake.
Pour the frosting over the cake while it’s still warm. This allows the frosting to spread easily and create that signature thin, fudgy layer.
Letting the cake cool completely in the pan before slicing is key for clean cuts.

What’s the secret to perfect chocolate Texas sheet cake?

The real secret to a perfect moist chocolate Texas sheet cake lies in the hot liquid poured over the dry ingredients. This technique “blooms” the cocoa powder, intensifying its flavor and creating an incredibly tender crumb. For more on the science behind baking, you can explore resources on ingredient properties.

Can I make Chocolate Texas Sheet Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can mix the batter and pour it into the pan, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be aware it might need an extra minute or two in the oven.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chocolate Texas Sheet Cake?

A common pitfall is overbaking, which can dry out your cake. Watch for the skewer test! Also, ensure your baking soda is fresh for proper leavening. Finally, don’t skip pouring the frosting on while the cake is still warm.

Best Ways to Serve Chocolate Texas Sheet Cake

This classic cake is wonderfully versatile! For a truly indulgent experience, serve it slightly warm with a scoop of classic vanilla ice cream; the contrast of warm cake and cold ice cream is divine. It’s also fantastic with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a sprinkle of berries for a touch of freshness. When it comes to pairing, the rich, fudgy topping is already a winner, but if you’re looking for the absolute best frosting for chocolate sheet cake, this recipe’s built-in frosting is hard to beat. You can also serve slices alongside a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee for a perfect afternoon treat.

Nutrition Facts for Chocolate Texas Sheet Cake

Let’s look at the nutritional breakdown for this delightful cake. This information is based on one serving, assuming the recipe yields 12-15 slices.

Calories: 450
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 60g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 300mg
Cholesterol: 80mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more detailed nutritional information, you can consult a nutrition tracking tool.

How to Store and Reheat Chocolate Texas Sheet Cake

Properly storing your delicious Chocolate Texas Sheet Cake ensures you can enjoy its amazing flavor for days to come. After the cake has completely cooled in the pan, carefully remove it. For short-term storage, place the cake in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. This will keep it fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you won’t finish it within that timeframe, don’t worry! This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the entire cake securely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. For reheating, you can gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to enjoy that fudgy frosting just right. These storage-related secondary keyword tips will keep your cake tasting fantastic!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Texas Sheet Cake

What is Texas sheet cake?

A Texas sheet cake is a famously moist, rich, and dense chocolate cake that’s baked in a jelly roll pan or a 9×13 inch pan. It’s characterized by its thin, fudgy chocolate frosting that’s poured over the warm cake, often with chopped pecans mixed in. It’s known for being easy to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Is Texas sheet cake easy to make?

Absolutely! That’s one of the best things about this cake. Most recipes, including this one, involve a straightforward mixing process, often with a one-bowl method for the batter. The ingredients are common pantry staples, and the frosting is incredibly simple to whip up. It truly is an easy chocolate Texas sheet cake that even beginners can master.

Can I use a different pan for my Chocolate Texas Sheet Cake?

While traditionally baked in a 9×13 inch pan or a jelly roll pan, you can adapt this recipe. If you use a larger pan, the cake will be thinner and might bake faster. If you use a smaller or deeper pan, you’ll need to adjust the baking time significantly to ensure it cooks through without burning. The 9×13 inch pan is ideal for achieving the perfect thickness and frosting-to-cake ratio!

What makes this cake so moist?

The combination of ingredients like buttermilk, oil (or butter in this recipe), and the hot liquid poured over the dry ingredients contributes to the incredible moisture. This process, sometimes called “blooming” the cocoa, intensifies the chocolate flavor and results in a tender, moist crumb that makes this a truly exceptional moist chocolate Texas sheet cake.

Variations of Chocolate Texas Sheet Cake You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, there are so many fun ways to switch up this beloved cake! For a truly decadent experience, try a chocolate sheet cake with pecan frosting; the nutty crunch complements the rich chocolate beautifully. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can easily adapt this recipe by using plant-based milk and butter substitutes. For a different flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the batter to deepen the chocolate notes, creating a more complex classic Texas sheet cake chocolate flavor. You could also experiment with baking it as cupcakes for individual treats, adjusting the baking time accordingly! If you enjoy experimenting with flavors, you might also like our apple cider donut cake recipe.

Chocolate Texas Sheet Cake: 1 Heavenly Recipe - Chocolate Texas Sheet Cake - additional detail

For another delightful dessert, check out these cosmic brownie bites or our nutter butter bars. If you’re in the mood for something savory, our sloppy joe bowls are a fantastic choice.