Texas Sheet Cake

Introduction

I first discovered Texas Sheet Cake at a family gathering, and it quickly became a crowd favorite. The rich, chocolatey flavor paired with the creamy, indulgent frosting was unlike anything I had tasted before. It’s not just a cake; it’s an experience. The soft and moist cake with its fudgy, warm icing topped with walnuts (optional) was such a hit that I decided to try making it myself. Now, this recipe has become a tradition in our home, and every time I make it, I’m reminded of those special moments with family. Whether it’s for birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy afternoon treat, Texas Sheet Cake never disappoints. It’s one of those desserts that’s simple enough for everyday enjoyment but special enough for any celebration.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your own Texas Sheet Cake:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups white sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup butter
• 1 cup water
• 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

For the Frosting:

• 6 tablespoons milk
• 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup butter
• 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

This simple combination of ingredients results in a rich and moist cake with a thick, fudgy frosting that’s sure to impress.

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Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make a Texas Sheet Cake that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and flour a 10×15 inch pan to prevent the cake from sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

• In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of white sugar, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt.
• Add ½ cup of sour cream and 2 eggs to the dry ingredients. Beat well to combine.
• In a saucepan, melt 1 cup of butter over low heat. Once melted, add 1 cup of water and 5 tablespoons of cocoa powder. Stir until smooth.
• Bring this mixture to a boil, then remove from heat. Allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the egg mixture. Stir until well blended.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

• For the frosting, combine 6 tablespoons of milk, 5 tablespoons of cocoa powder, and ½ cup of butter in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil.
• Once it comes to a boil, remove from heat.
• Stir in 4 cups of confectioners’ sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
• Fold in 1 cup of chopped walnuts if using.

Step 5: Frost the Cake

• Spread the warm frosting over the freshly baked cake. The warmth of the cake will melt the frosting, creating a smooth, glossy finish.
• Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving.

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Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

Texas Sheet Cake is rich and decadent, so be sure to enjoy it in moderation! Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (assuming 12 servings):

• Serving Size: 1 slice (based on 12 slices)
• Calories: 450-500 calories
• Total Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 250mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 60g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 50g
• Protein: 5g

These numbers will vary slightly depending on how you divide the cake and the size of your portions.

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Preparation Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Texas Sheet Cake is quick and easy to make, which makes it perfect for last-minute celebrations or a sweet afternoon snack.

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How to Serve

Texas Sheet Cake is best served warm, but it’s also delicious at room temperature. Here are a few ways to serve it:

• As a Dessert: Perfect for any dinner party, holiday gathering, or casual get-together.
• With Coffee: Serve a slice alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea for a satisfying afternoon treat.
• Topped with Ice Cream: Add a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream on top for an extra indulgence.
• For Birthdays: Serve it at birthday parties or celebrations; the cake easily serves a crowd.
• With Fresh Fruit: Pair a slice with fresh berries for a light contrast to the rich cake.

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Additional Tips

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smoother batter and more even mixing, ensure that your sour cream and eggs are at room temperature before adding them to the batter.
2. Cool the Cake Before Frosting: Allow the cake to cool slightly before spreading the frosting to avoid it melting too much.
3. Mix the Frosting Quickly: When making the frosting, stir it quickly to prevent lumps and to create a smooth, glossy texture.
4. Make It More Nutty: If you love nuts, feel free to add more walnuts or try other nuts like pecans for added texture.
5. Add a Touch of Cinnamon: For a slightly spiced flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the cake batter. It adds a warm depth of flavor without overpowering the chocolate.

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Recipe Variations

While the traditional Texas Sheet Cake is already delicious, here are some variations to make it your own:

• Caramel Texas Sheet Cake: Add ½ cup of caramel sauce to the batter for a sweet, caramelized flavor.
• Peanut Butter Texas Sheet Cake: Mix in ½ cup of peanut butter to the frosting for a peanut butter twist.
• Chocolate Chip Texas Sheet Cake: Stir 1 cup of chocolate chips into the batter for extra chocolatey goodness.
• Gluten-Free Texas Sheet Cake: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.
• Vegan Texas Sheet Cake: Substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal and the butter with dairy-free margarine for a vegan-friendly version.

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Serving Suggestions

Texas Sheet Cake is versatile and can be paired with many different dishes. Here are some suggestions:

• Serve with a Side Salad: A light, fresh salad balances the richness of the cake. Try a simple spinach salad with vinaigrette for contrast.
• Pair with a Warm Beverage: A cup of hot cocoa or coffee pairs wonderfully with this cake.
• For Special Occasions: Serve it at birthdays, potlucks, or even Thanksgiving dinner as a deliciously indulgent dessert.
• As a Gift: Texas Sheet Cake makes a great gift when cut into squares and wrapped in cellophane or placed in a decorative box.

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Freezing and Storage

Texas Sheet Cake stores very well and can even be frozen for future use:

• Freezing: Allow the cake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave it at room temperature for a few hours, then frost and serve.
• Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a warm climate, consider refrigerating the cake to preserve freshness.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

• Yes, margarine can be substituted for butter, though the flavor may be slightly different.

1. Can I use a different type of nut?

• Absolutely! Pecans are a great alternative to walnuts.

1. How can I make the frosting less sweet?

• Use less powdered sugar in the frosting or omit the nuts if you find the frosting too sweet.

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

• Yes, this cake can be made a day or two in advance. Just be sure to store it properly in an airtight container.

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?

• You can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be slightly denser.

1. How can I tell when the cake is done baking?

• Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, it’s done.

1. Can I make this cake without sour cream?

• Yes, you can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt or buttermilk.

1. Can I use milk instead of water in the cake batter?

• Yes, using milk will make the cake slightly richer, but water works just as well.

1. Is the frosting supposed to be thick?

• Yes, the frosting is supposed to be thick and fudgy, which makes it perfect for spreading over the warm cake.

1. Can I use a smaller pan?

• If you use a smaller pan, be sure to adjust the baking time, as the cake may need more time to cook.

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Conclusion

Texas Sheet Cake is a dessert that’s

perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a special celebration or just to enjoy with family and friends, this cake is sure to be a hit. Its rich, chocolatey flavor and decadent frosting make it a true indulgence. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a recipe you can rely on time and time again. So, next time you need a crowd-pleasing treat, give Texas Sheet Cake a try — you won’t regret it!

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