- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 18×13-inch rimmed baking sheet or jelly roll pan, ensuring it’s well-coated to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir until well blended and set aside.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the water and cocoa powder, stirring until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then remove from heat.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the hot butter mixture over the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl. Stir until fully combined and smooth.
- Add Eggs and Sour Cream: Beat the eggs lightly in a separate bowl, then gradually add them to the batter, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and well incorporated.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly to the edges. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare Frosting: While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the cocoa powder and milk, stirring until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then remove from heat.
- Add Sugar and Flavor: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the saucepan, whisking continuously until the frosting is smooth and glossy. Stir in the vanilla extract and chopped nuts, if using, until well combined.
- Frost the Cake: As soon as the cake is removed from the oven, pour the warm frosting over the hot cake, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Allow the cake to cool completely and the frosting to set before slicing and serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, cut the Texas Sheet Cake into squares and serve with a tall glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence. Watch as your guests marvel at the moist texture, rich chocolate flavor, and irresistible sweetness of this classic Southern treat.
Conclusion:
Texas Sheet Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a symbol of Southern hospitality and indulgence. With its moist crumb, rich chocolate flavor, and decadent frosting, this iconic dessert is sure to delight your guests and keep them coming back for seconds. So roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the sweet side of Texas tradition.
