Texas Sheet Cake Recipe – Easy, Moist & How to Make 2025

If you’re looking for a rich, chocolatey, and easy-to-make dessert that feeds a crowd, then the Texas sheet cake recipe is your answer. Known for its thin, moist layers and fudgy icing poured over the cake while it’s still warm, this iconic Southern dessert has stood the test of time for a reason.

Whether you’re baking for a potluck, family gathering, or holiday table, a Texas sheet cake recipe delivers on flavor, simplicity, and nostalgia. It’s also one of the most forgiving cakes you can make, making it ideal for both beginner and seasoned bakers.

You can also explore variations of the recipe from trusted sources like King Arthur’s take on Texas Sheet Cake or the classic step-by-step guide from Delish to see how others put their own spin on this beloved dessert.

History and Origins of the Texas Sheet Cake

The origins of the Texas sheet cake are debated, though it’s widely accepted as a traditional Southern recipe. Some believe the name came from its massive size—”everything’s bigger in Texas”—while others attribute it to early publications in Texas-based cookbooks during the 1950s and 60s.

Its chocolate buttermilk base and warm fudge icing quickly made it a staple in Southern homes. The cake’s enduring popularity comes from its straightforward ingredients and ability to satisfy chocolate cravings with minimal effort.

Essential Ingredients and Their Roles

A classic Texas sheet cake relies on a few key ingredients that work together to create its signature texture and flavor:

All-purpose flour – Gives structure to the cake.
Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds deep, rich chocolate flavor.
Buttermilk – Provides tang and helps create a moist crumb.
Butter – Ensures a tender cake and enhances richness.
Baking soda – A leavening agent that reacts with buttermilk.
Sugar – Sweetens the batter and balances the cocoa.
Eggs – Bind ingredients and add structure.
Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and complexity.
Chopped pecans – A classic topping, but optional.

Substitutions and Tips

Swap buttermilk with milk + vinegar (1 tablespoon vinegar to 1 cup milk) if needed.
For nut-free options, omit pecans or replace them with toasted coconut.
For a richer taste, use Dutch-processed cocoa powder.

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

Follow this tried-and-true method for the perfect Texas sheet cake every time:

Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 13×18-inch sheet pan.
In a saucepan, melt butter with cocoa powder and water. Bring to a gentle boil.
In a separate bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
Pour the hot cocoa mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
Stir in buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla.
Pour the batter into the sheet pan and bake for 18–22 minutes.
While the cake is baking, prepare the icing:
- Melt butter, then add cocoa, milk, and powdered sugar.
- Stir in vanilla and chopped pecans.
Pour warm icing over the hot cake and spread evenly.

Let cool slightly before serving. The icing will set into a fudgy glaze.

Variations of Texas Sheet Cake

You can easily put your own spin on this Southern favorite. Here are some popular variations:

White Texas Sheet Cake – Made with vanilla and sour cream instead of cocoa. Check out the White Texas Sheet Cake variation.
Gluten-Free – Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
Vegan – Use plant-based milk, dairy-free butter, and egg substitutes.
Nut-Free – Skip the pecans or replace them with seeds or dried fruit.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

This cake is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion:

Serve warm or at room temperature with a glass of milk or cup of coffee.
Pair with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Perfect for birthdays, church suppers, picnics, and potlucks.

To store:

Cover and keep at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for longer storage (up to a week), though this may firm the icing.
Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even simple recipes can go awry. Avoid these common Texas sheet cake mistakes:

Overbaking – Keep an eye on the cake. It’s done when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Icing too thick or thin – Adjust milk or sugar in the icing to reach a pourable consistency.
Pouring cold icing on a cool cake – The warmth of both the cake and icing helps them fuse together perfectly.

FAQs

What is the difference between a sheet cake and a Texas sheet cake?
A traditional sheet cake refers to any cake baked in a large rectangular pan, usually topped with buttercream or whipped frosting. A Texas sheet cake is a specific type of sheet cake made with buttermilk and cocoa, poured into a thin layer, and topped with a warm, fudgy chocolate icing, often with pecans. It has a denser texture and richer flavor compared to regular sheet cakes.

How many people will a 1 sheet cake feed?
A full Texas sheet cake baked in a standard 13×18-inch pan can easily serve 24 to 30 people, depending on how large the pieces are cut. It’s an ideal dessert for potlucks, parties, or events with a crowd.

Can you make Texas sheet cake ahead of time?
Yes, Texas sheet cake is perfect for making ahead. In fact, the flavor can improve overnight as the icing seeps into the cake. Prepare it 1–2 days before serving, store it covered at room temperature, or refrigerate if you need it to last longer.

What makes sheet cake different?
What sets a sheet cake apart is the method and shape—it’s baked in a large, shallow rectangular pan rather than in layers. A Texas sheet cake, specifically, is made with a boiled icing and often features a lighter, moister crumb compared to standard frosted cakes.

What is a Texas funeral cake?
Texas funeral cake is essentially another name for Texas sheet cake, often brought to gatherings like funerals, potlucks, and church functions due to its simplicity and crowd-pleasing taste. It’s known for being comforting, rich, and easy to transport.

Can you leave Texas sheet cake out overnight?
Yes, it’s safe to leave Texas sheet cake out overnight, as long as it’s kept covered. The icing acts as a seal, helping retain moisture. Just make sure it’s in a cool, dry place. If your kitchen is particularly warm or humid, refrigeration is a safer option.

What is the difference between Texas Sheet Cake and regular chocolate cake?
Texas sheet cake is thinner, uses a boiled icing, and is usually made in a sheet pan for a dense, moist texture and fudgy topping.

Can I make Texas Sheet Cake without nuts?
Yes. Simply leave them out or substitute with something else like toasted coconut or candy bits.

How do I store Texas Sheet Cake, and how long does it last?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Can I freeze Texas Sheet Cake?
Yes, it freezes well. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

What size pan is best for Texas Sheet Cake?
A half-sheet pan (13×18 inches) is traditional, but you can use a 9×13 for a thicker cake—just adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

A Texas sheet cake recipe is more than just a dessert—it’s a rich, nostalgic experience that brings comfort with every bite. With its soft, moist chocolate base and silky, fudge-like icing, it stands out as one of the most beloved cakes in Southern baking. What makes it so appealing is not only its bold flavor, but also its versatility and ease. You don’t need special equipment or advanced baking skills—just a sheet pan, a few pantry staples, and a little time.

This cake is perfect for feeding a crowd, making it ideal for birthdays, holidays, church gatherings, and casual weeknight treats. Whether you choose to bake a classic version or experiment with modern twists like a white Texas sheet cake or gluten-free variation, the results are always crowd-pleasing.

Inspired by timeless traditions and passed down through generations, this recipe remains a staple in Southern kitchens—and now, hopefully, in yours too. For more ideas, check out Gemma’s Ultimate Texas Sheet Cake for a bold variation worth trying.

So go ahead—whip up your own Texas sheet cake, and don’t be surprised when it disappears before you even get a second slice.