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Moist Classic Texas Sheet Cake Recipe with Easy Rich Chocolate Frosting

moist classic texas sheet cake - featured image

A simple, no-fuss classic Texas sheet cake that is moist and topped with a rich, silky chocolate frosting. Perfect for family gatherings or quick desserts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup (30g) cocoa powder
  • 1 cup (240ml) water
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • For frosting:
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup (22g) cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) milk (whole milk preferred)
  • 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in cocoa powder and water. Bring to a gentle boil, then remove from heat.
  4. Pour the hot butter mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Fold into the batter gently until smooth.
  6. Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, checking with a toothpick for doneness (should come out with moist crumbs, no wet batter).
  8. While the cake bakes, prepare the frosting: melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in cocoa powder, milk, and powdered sugar. Remove from heat and beat in vanilla extract until smooth.
  9. Frost the cake while it is still warm, spreading evenly over the top.
  10. Let the cake cool at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter to avoid a tough crumb. Frost the cake while warm for a glossy finish. Use fresh baking soda and cocoa powder for best results. If frosting is too thick, add a splash of milk; if too thin, add more powdered sugar. Let cake cool before slicing to allow frosting to set.

Nutrition

Keywords: Texas sheet cake, chocolate cake, easy chocolate frosting, moist chocolate cake, classic sheet cake, family dessert