Easy Texas Sheet Cake Recipe

Don’t let the name fool you. People far beyond the state lines of Texas love Texas Sheet Cake! Even though the Old Line State has their Smith Island Cake, this super sweet cake is near the top of all lists for the most popular cakes in Maryland. This Easy Texas Sheet Cake Recipe is moist and chocolatey, with a rich, fudgy frosting. It is a simple, yet indulgent treat that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Let’s get started!

Sheet cake vs Regular Cake

The pan size used distinguishes a sheet cake from a regular cakes. Regular cakes are made using a 9 x 13 baking pans. A 13×18 pan, also called a half sheet baking pan, is used to bake traditional sheet cakes. This results in a thinner cake.

Ingredients and variations

The ingredients for easy Texas sheet cake recipe are straightforward. They include flour, sugar, cocoa powder, butter, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. The frosting consists of butter, cocoa powder, confectioner’s sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. You can also substitute vanilla with other extracts, such as almond or peppermint.

Some can experiment with different types of chocolate. Consider semisweet or dark chocolate, or the addition of nuts, such as pecans or walnuts.

Some bakers also like to add a sprinkle of coconut or a drizzle of caramel on top. This gives the frosting added texture and flavor. Overall, the ingredients for the Texas sheet cake are simple, but the final result is a decadent and delicious dessert.

Preparing the cake

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and lightly grease a large sheet pan. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and cocoa powder. In a separate bowl, melt the butter and then add in the eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined. Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan and smooth it out into an even layer. Bake the cake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

While the cake is baking, you can prepare the frosting by melting the butter in a medium saucepan. Add in the cocoa powder and powdered sugar and stir until smooth. Stir in a small amount of vanilla extract or other extracts, if desired.

After the cake finishes baking, take it out of the oven and pour the hot frosting over the top. Use a spatula to spread the frosting evenly over the surface of the cake. Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting and serving.

Making the frosting

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and add the water. Bring to a boil.
2. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cocoa powder until well combined.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the confectioner’s sugar, vanilla extract, and buttermilk. Add the cocoa mixture from the saucepan and beat until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour the frosting over the warm Texas sheet cake and spread evenly. Let the frosting set before slicing and serving.

Serving and storing the cake

Typically, people serve Texas sheet cake in squares. Serve it at room temperature for the best taste. It is a rich, indulgent dessert, so a small piece is often enough to satisfy the sweet tooth of most people.

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Wrap in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Allow it to reach room temperature or warm it briefly in the microwave.

Does Texas sheet cake need to be refrigerated?

No. Store at room temperature, covered with foil or plastic wrap, for several days. You can also store the cake in the refrigerator if you prefer, but it may become firmer and drier.

Can you freeze it?

Yes, you can freeze Texas sheet cake. To freeze the cake, wrap it well in plastic wrap, or using in a resealable freezer bag. This dessert can be frozen for up to 3 months.

When you are ready to serve the cake, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature until it is soft enough to cut. Slice and serve the cake as desired. If you prefer, you can also warm the slices of cake briefly in the microwave before serving. Freezing the cake is a convenient way to enjoy it at a later date.

Pairing suggestions

There are many tasty options for pairing with Texas sheet cake. Some ideas include:

• Coffee: The rich, chocolatey flavor of Texas sheet cake pairs well with a hot cup of coffee. The bitterness of the coffee helps to balance out the sweetness of the cake.
• Ice cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream on top of a warm slice is a classic combination. The creamy, cold ice cream complements the fudgy frosting on the cake.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, fluffy element to the rich dessert.
• Fruit: A sprinkle of fresh berries or a slice of fruit, such as banana or mango, can add a touch of brightness to the rich chocolate flavor.
• Bourbon or whiskey: For a boozy twist, try pairing Texas sheet cake with a splash of bourbon or whiskey. The bold, smoky flavors of the liquor complement the rich chocolate flavor of the cake.