Indulge in the timeless allure of Homemade Texas Sheet Cake, a lusciously moist dessert that pays homage to the heart of Texas flavors. With a prep time of just 20 minutes and a cook time of 20 minutes, this classic delight captures the essence of Southern hospitality. A tender cocoa-infused cake, generously topped with warm, velvety cocoa frosting, offers a symphony of flavors in every bite. This recipe comes together with everyday kitchen essentials and is perfect for gatherings, birthdays, and special occasions. Dive into the world of Texan culinary tradition and create a dessert that's as unforgettable as it is irresistible.

Homemade Texas Sheet Cake

Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts! We're diving into the scrumptious world of desserts with a classic Texan treat that never fails to impress – the beloved Texas Sheet Cake. This moist and decadent delight is sure to become your new favorite dessert to whip up for gatherings, celebrations, or just because.

The Classic Texas Sheet Cake Recipe:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup water
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 15x10-inch sheet cake pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter and stir in water and cocoa powder. Bring to a boil.
4. Pour the cocoa mixture over the dry ingredients and mix well.
5. Stir in buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting.

For the Frosting:

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups powdered sugar

1. In a saucepan, melt the butter and stir in cocoa powder and milk. Bring to a boil.
2. Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla extract and powdered sugar until smooth.
3. Pour the warm frosting over the warm cake and spread evenly.
4. Let the cake cool before serving.

What's the cooling time for the cake?

The cooling time for the cake in the first Texas Sheet Cake recipe is typically around 20 to 30 minutes. After you have poured the warm frosting over the warm cake, it's a good idea to let the cake sit at room temperature for a bit before serving. This allows the frosting to set and the flavors to meld together.

During this cooling period, the frosting will slightly firm up, but it will still be soft and fudgy. You don't want to cut the cake immediately after frosting, as it might be too runny and could make slicing messy. Waiting for about 20 to 30 minutes will ensure that the frosting has a chance to set a bit while remaining deliciously gooey.

Keep in mind that these are just approximate timeframes, and you can adjust the cooling time based on your preferences and the specific conditions in your kitchen. Enjoy your scrumptious Texas Sheet Cake!

Kitchen Tools Needed:

• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• 15x10-inch sheet cake pan

Tips for Recipe Success:

• Make sure to mix the ingredients well to avoid lumps in the batter.
• Use fresh buttermilk for the best results.
• Pour the frosting on the cake while both are still warm for a smooth finish.

Customization and Variations:

• Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the batter or sprinkle them on top of the frosting.
• Swap the vanilla extract with other flavors like almond or coconut for a twist.
• Incorporate a layer of cream cheese frosting for a delightful contrast.

Diet Lifestyles:

• Vegetarian
• Nut-free (without nuts)
• Can be made gluten-free with appropriate flour substitutes

Perfect for Special Events and Occasions:

• Family gatherings
• Birthday parties
• BBQs and cookouts
• Potluck dinners
• Thanksgiving and Christmas dessert tables

Recipes to Use Texas Sheet Cake In:

• Crumbled over ice cream for a delicious sundae
• Sandwiched with a scoop of frosting for a decadent cake sandwich
• Cut into small squares for an indulgent finger food at parties

Final Thoughts

There you have it, an exquisite homemade Texas Sheet Cake recipe that will leave your taste buds dancing and your guests asking for seconds. From its rich history to its endless customization possibilities, this cake is a true embodiment of Texan flavors and hospitality. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and create a culinary masterpiece that's bound to become a cherished favorite. Happy baking, y'all!

• First published: 10/7/2023

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Sara Maniez

Owner at Life's Little Sweets

Sara is an architectural designer turned work-at-home Mom. She lives in New Jersey by way of New England and New York, with her husband and 3 kids under 8. She loves design, being creative, and spending time with family and friends. She loves checking out local businesses and eats and being apart of the local farm to table community.

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