Texas Sheet Cake with Fudge Frosting and Pecans Recipe

If you have a craving for a dessert that is deeply chocolatey, moist, and topped with rich, creamy frosting dotted with crunchy pecans, then you are in for a treat with this Texas Sheet Cake with Fudge Frosting and Pecans Recipe. This classic Southern delight is beloved for its simplicity and incredible flavor combination that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, potluck, or just because, this cake promises to be your new go-to for satisfying your sweet tooth and impressing your guests with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this Texas Sheet Cake with Fudge Frosting and Pecans Recipe just right means having the right ingredients on hand. Each one plays a key role, from bringing moistness and depth of chocolate flavor to providing the perfect texture and sweetness balance.

• Canola oil: Adds moisture and keeps the cake tender without overpowering flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Used in both the batter and frosting for richness and creaminess.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers that signature deep chocolate flavor in both cake and frosting.
• Water: Helps bloom the cocoa, enhancing its natural chocolaty goodness.
• All-purpose flour: The structure of the cake that holds all the magic together.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just enough without being cloying.
• Baking soda: Provides the needed lift, making the cake light and fluffy.
• Kosher salt: Balances sweetness and highlights the chocolate notes.
• Espresso powder (optional): Intensifies the chocolate flavor and adds subtle complexity.
• Ground cinnamon: Offers a hint of warm spice that complements the chocolate beautifully.
• Large eggs: Bind everything together while adding richness.
• Buttermilk: Brings a slight tanginess and ensures a moist crumb.
• Pure vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a sweet aroma.
• Whole milk: Used in the frosting for a creamy texture.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for that perfect spreadable consistency.
• Chopped pecans (optional): Adds a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor to the frosting.

How to Make Texas Sheet Cake with Fudge Frosting and Pecans Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

First things first, adjust your oven rack to the middle position and preheat it to a sizzling 400 degrees Fahrenheit. You want your sheet pan, ideally 9×13 inches, ready by spraying it with baking spray or using the classic grease-and-flour method to prevent sticking. This ensures your cake comes out cleanly and looks beautiful.

Step 2: Melt the Cocoa and Butter Mixture

In a large saucepan, combine the canola oil, butter, unsweetened cocoa powder, and water. Heat this mixture just until it boils, stirring frequently to blend the ingredients smoothly. This step is where the rich chocolate base for both the cake and frosting is born, so pay attention to getting a lovely, velvety blend.

Step 3: Mix the Dry and Wet Ingredients Separately

While your cocoa mixture heats, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, kosher salt, espresso powder if using, and ground cinnamon in a large mixing bowl. Then add the lightly beaten eggs, buttermilk, and pure vanilla extract. This keeps the batter balanced, ensuring your cake gets air and moisture evenly distributed.

Step 4: Combine the Hot Cocoa Mixture and Batter

Once your cocoa mixture is boiling, carefully remove it from heat and gradually pour it into the flour and sugar mixture. Use a rubber spatula, wooden spoon, or even an electric mixer on low to beat everything together until you have a smooth, silky batter free from lumps—this step guarantees that perfect tender crumb we all love.

Step 5: Pour Batter and Bake

Transfer the batter into your prepared sheet pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Give the pan a few gentle taps on the countertop to release any trapped air bubbles that might create unwanted holes in your cake. Pop the pan into your preheated oven to bake for 10 minutes at 400°F.

Step 6: Adjust Temperature and Continue Baking

After 10 minutes, carefully rotate the pan for even baking and reduce the oven temperature to 375°F. Bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—when it comes out clean, your cake is perfectly baked.

Step 7: Cool the Cake

Once baked, transfer the cake on the rack and let it cool slightly as you prepare the luscious fudge frosting. This wait time allows the cake to firm up just enough so the frosting will set beautifully when spread.

Step 8: Make the Fudge Frosting

In a large saucepan, bring together the cocoa powder, butter, and whole milk over medium heat until it reaches a gentle boil. Stir in kosher salt and vanilla extract, then whisk in powdered sugar and chopped pecans until everything is smooth and glossy. The frosting is the star of this Texas Sheet Cake with Fudge Frosting and Pecans Recipe because it’s indulgent and nutty, adding incredible texture and flavor.

Step 9: Frost the Cake

Remove the frosting from heat and immediately spread it over the warm cake evenly. Because the cake is still warm, the frosting will melt slightly into the surface, creating a wonderfully fudgy finish that sets into a rich layer as it cools.

Step 10: Let It Set

Let the frosted cake rest for at least one hour until the frosting has set perfectly. This step is essential for slicing clean pieces and enjoying that classic Texas sheet cake texture with a glossy, nutty topping.

How to Serve Texas Sheet Cake with Fudge Frosting and Pecans Recipe

Garnishes

While the chopped pecans in the frosting add a delightful crunch, feel free to sprinkle additional pecans or even a light dusting of cocoa powder on top right before serving. Fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can elevate this dessert to a new level of decadence. A few bright berries can also add a pop of color and fresh contrast to the richness.

Side Dishes

Texas Sheet Cake with Fudge Frosting and Pecans Recipe pairs beautifully with coffee or a cold glass of milk—simple, classic companions that balance the cake’s richness. If you want to serve a full dessert spread, consider light fruit salads or tangy lemon bars to offer a refreshing counterpoint.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the cake into bite-sized squares for easy party servings or layer it with whipped cream and fresh berries to create an impromptu trifle. You can also turn leftovers into decadent bread pudding by cubing cake pieces and soaking them in a custard mix before baking again. Presentation adds a fun twist to a beloved classic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Texas Sheet Cake with Fudge Frosting and Pecans Recipe keeps beautifully when covered tightly and stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake wrapped well to prevent drying out. These timeless flavors hold up well and taste even better after resting.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake either before or after frosting. If freezing unfrosted, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. Frosted cake should be frozen on a baking sheet first, then wrapped carefully once the frosting is firm. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

While this cake is delicious cold or at room temperature, if you prefer it warm, gently heat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. This revives the fudgy sensation of the frosting and softens the crumb for a cozy, comforting treat.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic buttermilk’s tang. It helps maintain the cake’s moist texture and slight tanginess that compliments the chocolate.

Is espresso powder necessary in this Texas Sheet Cake with Fudge Frosting and Pecans Recipe?

Espresso powder is optional but highly recommended because it enhances the chocolate flavor without adding a coffee taste. If you don’t have it, you can leave it out and the cake will still be delicious.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in equal measure, but results may vary slightly in texture. Be sure to use blends that include xanthan gum for binding.

How long does this cake stay fresh once frosted?

When stored properly at room temperature, the frosted cake will remain fresh for about 2 days. Refrigerating it can extend its life up to 4-5 days, but bring it back to room temperature before serving for best flavor.

Can I omit the pecans if I have a nut allergy?

Definitely! The pecans add nice texture and flavor, but the cake and frosting are fantastic on their own. You can replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds or simply leave them out.

Final Thoughts

This Texas Sheet Cake with Fudge Frosting and Pecans Recipe is a heartwarming dessert that celebrates simplicity with extraordinary flavor. Every step, from mixing to frosting, fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and results in a cake that feels like a celebration in every forkful. Don’t hesitate to try it out soon; your family and friends will thank you for bringing such a delightful Southern classic to the table!

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