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!