Ingredients
Method
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 15x10-inch jelly roll pan or similar sized baking sheet.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine butter, water, and cocoa powder. Heat over medium heat until butter melts and mixture comes to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Pour the hot cocoa mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
- In a small bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Add to the batter and mix until smooth.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cake bakes, prepare the icing. In a saucepan, combine butter, milk, and cocoa powder. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat.
- Whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Stir in pecans if using.
- As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, pour the warm icing over the hot cake and spread evenly.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
Don't overmix the batter. For buttermilk substitute: mix ½ cup milk with 1½ teaspoons lemon juice or vinegar. Spread icing while cake is warm for signature fudgy texture. Cake improves in flavor overnight.
