Texas Sheet Cake

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×18-inch rimmed baking sheet or jelly roll pan.
Whisk together flour, sugar, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon (if using) in a large bowl. Set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt butter, water, and cocoa powder over medium heat until smooth. Bring to a gentle boil, then remove from heat.
Pour warm cocoa mixture into the flour mixture and stir until just combined.
Whisk sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract; add to batter and stir until smooth.
Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.

Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Prepare the icing while the cake bakes.

Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add cocoa powder and milk, whisking until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat.
Gradually whisk in powdered sugar until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
Fold in nuts (optional).

Immediately pour warm icing over the hot cake. Spread evenly with an offset spatula.
Let cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.

Pour icing over the cake while both are warm for easy spreading and a fudgy texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Cinnamon Twist: Add cinnamon to the batter for a spiced note.
Buttermilk Substitute: Use buttermilk, or mix 1/2 cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice/vinegar (let sit 5 minutes).
White Texas Sheet Cake: Omit cocoa; add almond extract to batter and icing.

Yes! Once cooled, store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Yes! Wrap slices tightly, then place in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, milk, or coffee.

A 13×18-inch pan is best for a thinner cake. Adjust baking time if using a smaller pan.

Texas Sheet Cake is a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert with rich chocolate flavor and a moist texture. It’s perfect for any occasion!