Best Texas Sheet Cake Recipe With Video

I originally shared this recipe for Texas Sheet Cake over on Spend with Pennies! I’m so in love with this cake. The tender chocolate crumb, the sleek, fudgy, shiny frosting, how simple it is to make… Chocolate lovers, you’re going to want to try this one. Chances are you’ve had or at least heard of Texas sheet cake before (fun fact: Texas sheet cake didn’t actually originate in Texas, just like German chocolate cake isn’t from Germany!). It’s a southern classic, baked in a jelly roll pan and perfect for bringing to a party or potluck. Or polishing off by yourself, I don’t judge.

Texas sheet cake is a classic, and the age-old recipe was almost perfect as-is. Almost. You know I can’t resist tweaking anything I try, and this recipe was no exception. I wanted the crumb to be just a bit softer, moister, more flavorful, and richer than the original, and oh did we get there. I took a few notes from my (best ever) chocolate cake recipe:

Brown sugar in addition to granulated adds both moisture and a depth of flavor. A splash of vanilla extract, for added flavor of course. A sprinkle of instant coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee. Extra cocoa powder, for an even more intense chocolate flavor.

These small modifications make this cake a chocolate-lover’s dream.

And that frosting! That beautifully glossy blanket of chocolate fudge frosting is simple to make and absolutely heavenly. It’s made on the stovetop like a ganache, but it’s not quite as heavy, instead it’s light and melts in your mouth, giving way to that perfect chocolate crumb.

Storing

Chances are you won’t have any leftovers. But just in case you want to make it in advance: Texas sheet cake can be stored covered or in an airtight container at room temperature for several days. It will keep longer in the refrigerator, but keep in mind that the fridge tends to dry out cakes, even if they are covered. This cake can also be frozen. Allow it to cool completely and then cover tightly with plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Enjoy! For a peanut buttery variation, try my peanut butter sheet cake!