Decadent, rich, and perfectly moist, this Chocolate Sheet Cake is a classic dessert that never fails to impress. With its velvety texture, deep chocolate flavor, and smooth chocolate frosting, every bite is pure indulgence. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday celebration, a family gathering, or just a treat to satisfy your chocolate cravings.
What Makes This Chocolate Sheet Cake Special
The beauty of this Chocolate Sheet Cake lies in its simplicity and flavor. The cake itself is incredibly moist, thanks to a combination of high-quality cocoa powder. The rich chocolate frosting adds an extra layer of sweetness and texture, while the chocolate chips on top provide a delightful crunch. It’s a cake that’s both easy to make and absolutely delicious.
A Chocolate Lover’s Delight
Imagine this: It’s a special occasion, and you’ve just sliced into a beautifully frosted Chocolate Sheet Cake. The rich, chocolatey aroma fills the air, and as you take a bite, the moist cake and creamy frosting create a moment of pure bliss. The addition of chocolate chips adds a perfect touch of texture and flavor, making each bite even more enjoyable. This cake is a true delight for chocolate lovers.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special event, or simply craving a rich chocolate dessert, this Chocolate Sheet Cake is a versatile choice. It’s easy to make ahead and keeps well, so you can enjoy it fresh or serve it the next day. Pair it with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee for a classic combination that’s always a hit.
Ingredient Notes
- Flour: The base for the cake, giving it structure and tenderness.
- Sugar: Sweetens the cake, contributing to its moist texture.
- Cocoa Powder: Adds rich, deep chocolate flavor to the cake.
- Baking Soda & Baking Powder: Leavening agents that help the cake rise.
- Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Espresso Powder: A secret ingredient that deepens the chocolate flavor.
- Butter: Rich and creamy, adding moisture and flavor to the cake.
- Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the ingredients together.
- Sour Cream: Adds moisture and tang to the cake.
- Milk: Moisturizes the cake while balancing the richness.
- Vanilla: A touch of warmth that enhances the overall flavor.
- Mini Chocolate Chips: Little bursts of melted chocolate throughout the cake.
Buttercream Frosting:
- Salted Butter: Rich butter that provides a creamy base for the frosting.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- Cocoa Powder: Adds more depth and chocolate flavor to the frosting.
- Sea Salt: A pinch to balance the sweetness of the frosting.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a touch of sweetness.
- Whole Milk: Makes the frosting smooth and spreadable.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your Chocolate Sheet Cake with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for added creaminess and contrast.
- A side of fresh berries for a burst of color and freshness.
- A drizzle of caramel or raspberry sauce for extra indulgence.
- A sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Tips for Baking Perfection
- Use high-quality cocoa powder: This ensures a rich, deep chocolate flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense; mix just until combined.
- Grease the baking pan well: This helps the cake release easily and keeps the shape intact.
- Let the cake cool before frosting: This ensures the frosting sets beautifully on the cake.
- Store properly: Keep the cake covered to maintain its moisture and freshness.
A Decadent Dessert Worth Sharing
This Chocolate Sheet Cake is a testament to the beauty of simple, flavorful desserts. With its rich flavor, moist texture, and stunning presentation, it’s sure to become a favorite for any occasion. One bite, and you’ll understand why this cake is a beloved classic.
Chocolate Sheet Cake
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups flour
- 2 ½ cups sugar
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon espresso powder
- 2 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 cup butter melted
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
Chocolate Buttercream Frosting
- 1 cup salted butter softened
- 4 ½ cups powdered sugar confectioner's sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup whole milk
Instructions
Chocolate Sheet Cake
- Set your oven to 350°F and let it preheat. Line an 18 x 13” cake pan with parchment paper and set it aside.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, sea salt, and espresso powder, then set the bowl aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter, sugar, eggs, sour cream, milk, and vanilla until smooth and well combined. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until the batter comes together. Fold in the mini chocolate chips until evenly spread throughout.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Once baked, place the pan on a wire rack and let the cake cool completely to room temperature, which should take about 30 minutes.
Chocolate Buttercream Frosting
- In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and sea salt, then set aside.
- Using a stand mixer with the paddle attachment or a hand mixer in a large bowl, beat the butter until light and fluffy. Add half of the powdered sugar mixture and mix on low until incorporated, then increase the speed to high and beat for about 30 seconds until airy.
- Pour in the milk, vanilla, and the remaining powdered sugar mixture. Start mixing on low, then gradually increase to high and beat until smooth. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl, then beat again until fully combined and fluffy.
- Once the cake has completely cooled, either lift it out of the pan onto a serving platter or leave it in the pan. Spread the chocolate buttercream evenly over the top.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy! If preferred, cover the cake with a lid, foil, or plastic wrap and Chill it overnight.
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