Original Texas Sheet Cake

Introduction

Original Texas Sheet Cake is a beloved Southern dessert known for its rich chocolate flavor,
ultra-moist texture, and thin, crowd-friendly shape. Baked in a large sheet pan and topped
with warm chocolate frosting poured directly over the hot cake, this classic recipe is
simple, indulgent, and perfect for gatherings of any size.

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Chocolate Frosting

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 6 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3½–4 cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

Make the Cake

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10×15-inch or 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the water and cocoa powder,
   stirring until smooth and just beginning to boil.
4. Pour the hot cocoa mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Stir in the sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
7. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Make the Frosting

1. While the cake is baking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir in the cocoa powder and milk; bring to a gentle boil.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar until smooth.
5. Fold in the chopped pecans, if using.

Frost the Cake

• Pour the warm frosting over the hot cake.
• Spread gently and allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing.

Description

Texas Sheet Cake is thin, ultra-moist, and packed with deep chocolate flavor.
Pouring the warm frosting over the freshly baked cake allows it to seep into
the surface, creating a glossy, fudgy topping in every bite. The texture lands
perfectly between cake and brownie.

Tips

• Use natural unsweetened cocoa powder for authentic flavor.
• Pour the frosting over the cake while both are still warm.
• Sour cream adds extra richness, but buttermilk works well too.
• Pecans are traditional but can be left out if preferred.

Corrections (Common Mistakes to Avoid)

• Do not overbake; the cake should remain moist.
• Avoid frosting a completely cooled cake—the frosting won’t soak in.
• Add powdered sugar gradually to prevent a grainy frosting texture.

Enjoy

Enjoy Original Texas Sheet Cake warm or at room temperature with a glass of cold milk
or a cup of coffee. This timeless dessert is perfect for sharing and guaranteed to
disappear quickly.