Decadent Chocolate Sheet Cake Recipe: A Crowd-Pleaser Guaranteed
This recipe delivers a supremely moist and intensely chocolatey sheet cake, perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress. Forget boxed mixes; this homemade version is surprisingly easy to make and tastes infinitely better. Get ready to experience chocolate heaven!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe provides ample servings for a crowd. Feel free to halve it for a smaller gathering.
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For the Cake:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed for a richer flavor)
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) freshly brewed hot coffee
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For the Chocolate Frosting:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
- ¾ cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup (120ml) milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Baking Instructions: Step-by-Step
Preparing the Cake Batter:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
- Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Thorough mixing prevents lumps in your final cake.
- Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Combine: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
- Coffee Infusion: Slowly pour in the hot coffee while mixing on low speed. The coffee adds incredible depth of flavor and moisture to the cake.
- Pour & Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Making the Decadent Chocolate Frosting:
- Cream the Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add Sugar & Cocoa: Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with the milk, and beat until smooth and creamy. Be patient; this process creates a luscious frosting.
- Vanilla Enhancement: Stir in the vanilla extract for an extra touch of flavor.
Assembling Your Chocolate Masterpiece:
- Cool Completely: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the frosting from melting.
- Frost & Enjoy: Once the cake is completely cool, frost generously with the chocolate frosting. You can get creative with your frosting techniques!
Tips for Chocolate Cake Perfection:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature ingredients ensures even mixing and a smoother batter.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh baking powder and baking soda is crucial for proper leavening.
- Cooling is Key: Ensure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this decadent chocolate sheet cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar. It's delicious on its own, too!
This recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy baking and the delicious rewards! Remember to share your baking creations using #chocolateSheetCake #homemadecake #bakinglove. Happy baking!