Chocolate Sheet Cake is a classic dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with a soft, moist cake base, all topped off with a luscious, creamy icing. This cake is perfect for gatherings, family events, or just a simple dessert at home. The optional addition of pecans in the icing adds a delightful crunch, though you can easily customize the toppings to suit any occasion or preference.
Chocolate Sheet Cake: A Rich and Decadent Treat
This recipe is straightforward and results in a cake that is sure to please everyone. It’s a wonderful choice for anyone looking for a reliable and delicious chocolate cake that’s both easy to make and universally loved.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12-15
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 sticks (1 cup) butter
- 4 heaping tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Icing:
- 1 3/4 sticks (about 7/8 cup) butter
- 4 heaping tablespoons cocoa powder
- 6 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pound powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans (optional)
Directions:
- Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, baking soda, vanilla extract, and eggs. Set this aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and stir in the cocoa powder. Once combined, add 1 cup of boiling water, allow the mixture to bubble for a moment, then remove from heat.
- Pour the chocolate mixture into the dry ingredients and stir a bit to cool down the chocolate. Then, integrate the egg mixture, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the batter into an ungreased jelly roll pan or a rimmed baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Make the Icing:
- While the cake is baking, prepare the icing by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
- Add the cocoa powder and milk, stirring until the mixture is smooth.
- Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Stir in the pecans, if using.
- Once the cake is out of the oven, immediately pour the warm icing over the hot cake. Try to distribute the icing evenly as you pour to minimize the need for spreading.
Cook’s Note:
- For a child-friendly version, omit the pecans and serve the cake with M&Ms for decoration.
- This recipe can also be adapted for cupcakes. Fill muffin tins slightly less than usual to accommodate the icing.
This Chocolate Sheet Cake is wonderfully versatile, rich, and sure to satisfy any chocolate lover. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply treating yourself, this cake is an excellent choice that promises decadence in every bite. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delight of sharing it with others!
