The Ultimate Texas Sheet Cake Recipe

If there’s one dessert that embodies Southern comfort and indulgence, it’s a classic Texas Sheet Cake. With its moist, chocolatey layers and decadent fudgy icing, this cake has been a favorite for generations. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a potluck, or simply craving a sweet treat, this Texas Sheet Cake recipe is sure to delight.

Why Texas Sheet Cake is a Must-Try

Texas Sheet Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a nostalgic experience. Unlike traditional layer cakes, this cake is baked in a sheet pan, making it perfect for feeding a crowd without the fuss of multiple layers. Its unique texture—light yet dense, moist yet airy—comes from a combination of boiling butter, cocoa, and water poured over dry ingredients, which gives the cake its signature tenderness.

What truly sets this cake apart is the chocolate icing. Unlike other cakes where frosting sits on top after cooling, Texas Sheet Cake’s frosting is poured over the cake while it’s still hot, creating a fudgy, glossy layer that seeps slightly into the cake, making every bite irresistible.

Ingredients for the Perfect Cake

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup water
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Chocolate Icing:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup milk
• 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans (optional but classic!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 13×18-inch sheet pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and sugar. This ensures even distribution and a smooth texture.
3. In a saucepan, bring butter, water, and cocoa powder to a boil, stirring until completely smooth. This hot mixture is key for achieving the cake’s moist texture.
4. Pour the hot chocolate mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined.
5. Add eggs, sour cream, baking soda, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

2. Make the Icing

1. About 5 minutes before the cake finishes baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add cocoa powder and milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
4. Stir in pecans if using.
5. Pour the warm icing over the hot cake and spread quickly before it sets. This step is essential for creating that classic fudgy layer that Texas Sheet Cake is known for.

Tips for the Perfect Texas Sheet Cake

• Timing is Everything: Pour the icing while the cake is still hot for maximum flavor and fudginess.
• Southern Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for a warm, spicy note that complements the chocolate beautifully.
• Nut Variations: Pecans are traditional, but walnuts or skipping nuts entirely works just as well.
• Storage: Store at room temperature, covered, for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and refrigerate, though this may slightly firm up the icing.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

This Texas Sheet Cake isn’t just chocolatey—it’s comforting. It’s the kind of dessert that brings people together, whether it’s a casual family night or a celebratory gathering. The fudgy icing, tender crumb, and simple preparation make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite nuts, a touch of cinnamon, or even a drizzle of caramel.

Perfect Pairings

Pair this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a cup of freshly brewed coffee for an unforgettable dessert experience. Its rich chocolate flavor also complements fresh berries or a glass of cold milk perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Texas Sheet Cake is proof that sometimes, the simplest recipes create the most unforgettable desserts. With this recipe, you can enjoy a classic Southern treat without the fuss of complicated techniques. Its moist texture, rich chocolate flavor, and luscious icing make it a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Whether you’re a baking novice or a dessert enthusiast, this Texas Sheet Cake will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.