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Classic Chocolate Sheet Cake with Fudgy Icing

This classic chocolate sheet cake is a moist, rich cocoa dessert topped with decadent fudgy icing, perfect for gatherings and potlucks. It comes together easily in one pan and serves a crowd with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 6 tablespoons milk
  • 4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 13x9-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, and baking soda until well combined.
  4. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup of butter. Add the water and 1/2 cup cocoa powder, whisking until smooth. Bring to a gentle boil, then remove from heat.
  5. Pour the hot cocoa mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Add the buttermilk mixture and mix until the batter is smooth and uniform.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. While the cake is baking, prepare the icing: melt 1/2 cup butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the milk and 4 tablespoons cocoa powder, whisking until smooth. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat.
  8. Stir in the vanilla extract and gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth and creamy. Stir in nuts if using.
  9. Pour the warm icing over the hot cake as soon as it comes out of the oven. Spread evenly with a spatula and let cool completely before serving.

Notes

For the most moist and tender cake, don't overmix the batter once you've added the wet ingredients to the dry. The secret to that classic Texas sheet cake texture is pouring the warm icing over the hot cake, allowing it to seep in slightly.