Texas Sheet Cake with Pecans

Introduction

The Texas sheet cake is a beloved dessert that has won hearts across generations.

Known for its moist, chocolatey base, glossy frosting, and delightful crunch of pecans, this cake is perfect for feeding a crowd.

It’s a go-to recipe for celebrations, potlucks, or anytime you want to share something irresistibly sweet.

The image captures the beauty of this cake, showcasing its glossy chocolate topping adorned with pecans.

Follow this recipe to bring the rich flavors of a classic Texas sheet cake to your kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour

2 cups (400g) granulated sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup (240ml) water

1 cup (225g) unsalted butter

1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder

For the Frosting:

1/2 cup (120ml) unsalted butter

1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder

1/4 cup (60ml) milk

3 1/2 cups (450g) powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup (120g) pecans, halved or chopped (for topping)

Instructions

Preparing the Cake

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a large 9×13-inch sheet pan or line it with parchment paper.

Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, cocoa powder, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat.

Combine the Ingredients: Pour the warm cocoa mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined. Add the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract, and stir until the batter is smooth.

Pour the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan and spread it evenly.

Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Preparing the Frosting

Make the Cocoa Mixture: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the cocoa powder and milk, whisking until smooth.

Add the Sugar and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and glossy.

Assembling the Cake

Frost the Cake: While the cake is still warm, pour the frosting evenly over the top. Use a spatula to spread it to the edges.

Add the Pecans: Immediately sprinkle the pecan halves or chopped pecans over the frosting. Press lightly so they adhere to the surface.

Serving Suggestions

Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing into squares. This rich and indulgent cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of cold milk.

Its moist texture and decadent frosting make it a crowd favorite for any occasion.

Conclusion

The Texas sheet cake with pecans is a timeless dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Its moist, chocolate base and luxurious frosting, topped with crunchy pecans, create a flavor and texture combination that’s hard to resist.

Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with family, this cake is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Bake it today and experience the joy of a classic Texas treat!