why make this recipe
Classic Texas Sheet Cake is a delicious and easy dessert that is perfect for any occasion. It’s a favorite at potlucks, family gatherings, and birthday parties. This cake is moist, chocolatey, and topped with a rich frosting that takes it to the next level. Plus, it feeds a crowd, making it a great choice for large gatherings.
how to make Classic Texas Sheet Cake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large sheet pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and baking soda.
- In a saucepan, combine the butter, water, and cocoa powder; bring this mixture to a boil.
- Pour the hot mixture into the dry ingredients and mix well.
- Add the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla; mix until combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Meanwhile, prepare the frosting by combining 1/2 cup butter, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, 1/3 cup milk, and 4 cups powdered sugar in a bowl.
- Once the cake is cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top, and enjoy!
how to serve Classic Texas Sheet Cake
Serve Classic Texas Sheet Cake directly from the sheet pan. Cut it into squares for easy serving. It pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
how to store Classic Texas Sheet Cake
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week. If you need to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
tips to make Classic Texas Sheet Cake
- Make sure the butter is unsalted to control the saltiness of the cake.
- Use room temperature eggs and buttermilk to ensure a smooth batter.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
variation
You can add nuts, such as chopped pecans or walnuts, to the batter for added texture. Another delicious variation is to use different flavored frostings, like cream cheese or caramel, for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the cake may be denser.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Classic Texas Sheet Cake tastes even better the next day. Bake it a day in advance and store it properly.
3. Is there a gluten-free version?
Yes! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for a gluten-free cake.

Classic Texas Sheet Cake
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Frosting Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup milk
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large sheet pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and baking soda.
- In a saucepan, combine the butter, water, and cocoa powder; bring this mixture to a boil.
- Pour the hot mixture into the dry ingredients and mix well.
- Add the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla; mix until combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan.
Baking
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Frosting
- In a bowl, combine the butter, cocoa powder, milk, and powdered sugar for the frosting.
- Once the cake is cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.