Name: Chocolate Cherry Texas Sheet Cake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 20
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Chocolate Cake Batter:; 2 cups flour; 2 cups white sugar; 1 tsp Baking Soda; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup sour cream; 2 large eggs; 1 cup unsalted butter; ¾ cup water; 5 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder; 20 oz cherry pie filling; For Chocolate Frosting:; 6 tbsp milk; 5 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder; ½ cup unsalted butter; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 20 maraschino cherries

Indulge in this delightful twist on a classic dessert with a rich chocolate flavor and bursts of tangy cherry goodness. This Texas sheet cake is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.

chocolate cherry texas sheet cake recipe

Photos of Chocolate Cherry Texas Sheet Cake Recipe

When preparing this recipe, you might need to pick up a few items that aren’t always in your pantry. Sour cream and unsweetened cocoa powder are essential for the cake's texture and flavor. Additionally, cherry pie filling and maraschino cherries add a fruity touch that sets this dessert apart.

Ingredients for Chocolate Cherry Texas Sheet Cake

Flour: The base of the cake, giving it structure and texture.

White sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a tender crumb.

Baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise.

Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances sweetness.

Sour cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang to the batter.

Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cake and frosting.

Water: Helps dissolve and incorporate the cocoa powder into the batter.

Unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides deep chocolate flavor to the cake and frosting.

Cherry pie filling: Adds a fruity, tangy element to the cake.

Milk: Used in the frosting to create a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps it set properly.

Vanilla extract: Adds a hint of vanilla flavor to the frosting.

Maraschino cherries: Decorative topping that adds a burst of color and flavor.

One reader, Grata Pedersen says:

This chocolate cherry Texas sheet cake is a delightful treat! The rich chocolate flavor paired with the sweet cherry filling is heavenly. The frosting is smooth and decadent, making each bite irresistible. Perfect for any occasion!

Grata Pedersen

Techniques Required

How to grease and flour a pan: Grease the pan with butter or cooking spray, then add a small amount of flour. Tilt and shake the pan to coat the surface evenly, then tap out the excess flour. How to combine dry ingredients: Use a whisk or sifter to mix the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt together until they are evenly distributed. How to beat ingredients: Use an electric mixer or a whisk to thoroughly combine the sour cream and eggs with the dry ingredients until smooth. How to fold in ingredients: Gently mix the cherry pie filling into the batter using a spatula, being careful not to overmix. How to bring to a boil: Heat the milk, cocoa, and butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it reaches a rolling boil, then remove from heat. How to spread frosting: Use a spatula to evenly spread the chocolate frosting over the warm cake.

How To Make Chocolate Cherry Texas Sheet Cake

The rich homemade chocolate cake base for this Texas sheet cake recipe is dotted with cherry pie filling, for a sweet surprise in every bite.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Chocolate Cake Batter:

2cupsflour
2cupswhite sugar
1tspbaking soda
½tspsalt
½cupsour cream
2large eggs
1cupunsalted butter
¾cupwater
5tbspunsweetened cocoa powder
20ozcherry pie filling,(1 can)

For Chocolate Frosting:

6tbspmilk
5tbspunsweetened cocoa powder
½cupunsalted butter
4cupspowdered sugar
1tspvanilla extract
20maraschino cherries,for topping

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour a 10×15-inch sheet pan or jelly roll pan.
Combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Beat in the sour cream and eggs. Set aside.
Stir the cocoa mixture into the egg mixture, mixing until blended. Fold in the pie filling.
Pour the batter into prepared pan.
Bake in the oven for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Frosting:

In a large saucepan, combine the milk, cocoa and butter. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat.
Stir in the confectioners sugar and vanilla, mixing until blended.
Spread chocolate frosting over warm cake, and put cherries in a grid over the cake, 1 for each slice.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 406.93kcal
Fat: 16.09g
Saturated Fat: 9.89g
Trans Fat: 0.56g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.23g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.74g
Carbohydrates: 65.53g
Fiber: 1.67g
Sugar: 45.90g
Protein: 2.97g
Cholesterol: 58.64mg
Sodium: 141.85mg
Calcium: 30.21mg
Potassium: 111.58mg
Iron: 0.74mg
Vitamin A: 139.58µg
Vitamin C: 1.07mg

Technique Tip for This Recipe

To ensure a moist and evenly baked chocolate cake, make sure to evenly spread the batter in the sheet pan and tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles before placing it in the oven.

How to Save Time on This Recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This minimizes interruptions and keeps the process smooth.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can quickly and efficiently combine your cake batter and frosting ingredients, saving you time and effort.

Preheat the oven early: Turn on the oven before you start mixing. This ensures it's ready when you are.

Line the pan with parchment: Instead of greasing and flouring, use parchment paper for easy cleanup and quick removal of the cake.

Use a microwave for butter: Soften or melt the butter in the microwave to speed up the process.

Substitute Ingredients For Chocolate Cherry Texas Sheet Cake Recipe

flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour provides a gluten-free alternative and adds a slightly nutty flavor.
white sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a caramel-like flavor.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use three times the amount of baking powder to achieve a similar leavening effect.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a more complex flavor profile.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a similar texture and tanginess with added protein.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg for a vegan alternative.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar fat content and a subtle coconut flavor.
water - Substitute with coffee: Coffee enhances the chocolate flavor in the cake.
unsweetened cocoa powder - Substitute with carob powder: Carob powder is naturally sweet and caffeine-free.
cherry pie filling - Substitute with fresh cherries: Fresh cherries offer a more natural flavor and texture.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in frosting.
powdered sugar - Substitute with coconut powdered sugar: Coconut powdered sugar is a less processed option with a hint of coconut flavor.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor.
maraschino cherries - Substitute with dried cherries: Dried cherries offer a more natural and less sweet alternative.

Best Way to Present This Dessert

Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the chocolate cake into elegant, bite-sized squares to ensure each piece is a perfect mouthful of indulgence.
Use decoration: Place a single maraschino cherry on top of each square, ensuring it sits perfectly centered to create a visually appealing grid pattern.
Add texture: Sprinkle a light dusting of finely grated dark chocolate over the frosting to add a touch of sophistication and a hint of bitterness to balance the sweetness.
Enhance presentation: Serve each piece on a small, pristine white plate to highlight the rich colors of the chocolate cake and cherries.
Garnish with fresh elements: Add a small sprig of mint next to each piece to introduce a fresh, aromatic element that complements the chocolate and cherry flavors.
Create a sauce drizzle: Prepare a simple cherry sauce by reducing cherry pie filling with a bit of sugar and lemon juice. Drizzle this sauce artistically around the plate for an added layer of flavor and visual appeal.
Use elegant utensils: Provide a small, elegant dessert fork or spoon with each plate to enhance the dining experience and make it feel more refined.
Incorporate height: Stack two small squares of chocolate cake slightly off-center to add dimension and height to the presentation, making it more dynamic and visually interesting.
Highlight the frosting: Ensure the chocolate frosting is spread smoothly and evenly over each piece, with a glossy finish that catches the light and adds a luxurious touch.
Balance flavors: Serve with a small dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on the side to balance the richness of the chocolate and cherry flavors, providing a creamy contrast.

Best Tools for This Recipe

Oven: Used to bake the cake at a consistent temperature of 350 degrees F.
10x15-inch sheet pan or jelly roll pan: The baking pan where the cake batter will be poured and baked.
Mixing bowls: Used to combine and mix the dry and wet ingredients separately.
Whisk: Useful for beating the eggs and sour cream into the dry ingredients.
Saucepan: Needed to heat and combine the ingredients for the chocolate frosting.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, sugar, sour cream, and other ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients like baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
Spatula: Handy for folding in the cherry pie filling and spreading the frosting over the cake.
Toothpick: Used to check if the cake is done by inserting it into the center to see if it comes out clean.
Cooling rack: Allows the cake to cool evenly after baking.
Knife: Useful for slicing the cake into pieces, each topped with a maraschino cherry.
Chopping board: Provides a surface for any necessary cutting or chopping tasks, like slicing the maraschino cherries if needed.
Electric mixer: Optional but helpful for thoroughly mixing the cake batter and frosting ingredients.

How to Store / Freeze This Dessert

Allow the chocolate cherry texas sheet cake to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the cake soggy.
For short-term storage, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also store it in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days.
If you prefer to refrigerate, place the cake in an airtight container or wrap it well with plastic wrap. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before serving, let it come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
To freeze the cake, first, ensure it is completely cooled. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can also place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Label the wrapped cake with the date to keep track of its freshness. The chocolate cherry texas sheet cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight. For quicker thawing, leave it at room temperature for a few hours.
If you prefer to freeze individual slices, cut the cake into portions and wrap each slice in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method allows you to thaw only the amount you need.
For the best texture, avoid freezing the maraschino cherries on top. Add fresh cherries after thawing the cake.
To refresh the cake after thawing, you can warm it slightly in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 300 degrees f for about 10 minutes. This will help restore its moist and tender texture.

How to Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 300 degrees F. Place the leftover chocolate cherry texas sheet cake on a baking sheet. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the cake's moisture and texture.
Use a microwave for a quick reheat. Place a slice of the cake on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check if it's warm enough; if not, continue in 10-second intervals. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the cake rubbery.
For a stovetop method, use a double boiler. Fill the bottom pot with water and bring it to a simmer. Place the cake in a heatproof bowl and set it over the simmering water. Cover the bowl with a lid or foil and let it steam gently for about 5-7 minutes. This method is excellent for retaining the cake's moisture.
If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300 degrees F. Place the cake slice in the air fryer basket. Heat for about 3-5 minutes. This method is quick and helps maintain a slightly crispy edge while keeping the inside moist.
For a toaster oven, preheat to 300 degrees F. Place the cake slice on a piece of parchment paper or directly on the toaster oven tray. Heat for 5-7 minutes, checking frequently to ensure it doesn't overheat. This method is great for small portions and keeps the cake's texture intact.
If you prefer a steaming method, place the cake slice on a heatproof plate. Set up a steamer basket over simmering water and place the plate inside. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes. This method is gentle and helps maintain the cake's moisture.
For a unique twist, reheat the cake on a grill. Preheat the grill to low heat. Wrap the cake slice in aluminum foil and place it on the grill. Heat for about 5 minutes, turning once. This method can add a subtle smoky flavor to the cake.
If you have a sous-vide machine, set it to 140 degrees F. Place the cake slice in a vacuum-sealed bag. Submerge the bag in the water bath and heat for about 15-20 minutes. This method ensures even heating and retains the cake's moisture perfectly.

Random Fact About This Recipe

A Texas sheet cake is known for its large, thin size, making it perfect for serving a crowd. This chocolate cherry version adds a delightful twist with the inclusion of cherry pie filling in the batter, creating a moist and flavorful dessert.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

The chocolate cherry texas sheet cake recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. With basic pantry staples like flour, sugar, and cocoa powder, the most significant expense is the cherry pie filling and maraschino cherries. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD. Considering the rich flavors and the large serving size, this recipe offers excellent value. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Healthy or Unhealthy?

This chocolate cherry Texas sheet cake is undeniably delicious, but it's not the healthiest option. The cake batter alone contains a significant amount of sugar (2 cups) and butter (1 cup), contributing to high calorie and fat content. The cherry pie filling, while adding flavor, also introduces additional sugars. The frosting further amplifies the sugar and fat content with 4 cups of powdered sugar and ½ cup of butter.

Replace white sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce fat and increase protein.
Opt for a homemade cherry filling using fresh or frozen cherries with minimal added sugar.
Reduce the amount of butter in both the cake and frosting, or use a healthier fat like coconut oil.
Use dark chocolate cocoa powder for a richer flavor and added antioxidants.
Top with fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries to cut down on added sugars and artificial ingredients.

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a more nutritious version of this delightful dessert without sacrificing too much on taste.

Editor's Thoughts on This Dessert

This chocolate cherry Texas sheet cake recipe is a delightful fusion of rich chocolate and tart cherries. The use of sour cream ensures a moist and tender crumb, while the cherry pie filling adds a burst of fruity flavor. The chocolate frosting, with its smooth and velvety texture, perfectly complements the cake. Topping each slice with a maraschino cherry adds a charming touch. Overall, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser, ideal for gatherings and celebrations.

Enhance Your Chocolate Cherry Texas Sheet Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Elevate your dessert experience with a savory twist by pairing it with roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled in a tangy balsamic glaze. The caramelized notes of the vegetables will complement the rich chocolate and cherry flavors, creating a symphony of taste in every bite.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus: Add a touch of elegance to your chocolate cherry Texas sheet cake with prosciutto-wrapped asparagus. The salty, savory prosciutto contrasts beautifully with the sweet, decadent dessert, making each mouthful a delightful surprise.

Spicy Mango Salsa: For a burst of freshness, serve a vibrant spicy mango salsa alongside your cake. The fruity sweetness and subtle heat from the jalapeños will dance on your palate, balancing the richness of the chocolate and cherries.

Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes: Indulge in a comforting side of garlic parmesan mashed potatoes to accompany your dessert. The creamy, savory potatoes with a hint of garlic and cheese will provide a delightful contrast to the sweet, moist cake.

Citrus Arugula Salad: Brighten your dessert plate with a refreshing citrus arugula salad. The peppery arugula and zesty citrus segments will cleanse your palate, making each bite of the chocolate cherry Texas sheet cake even more enjoyable.

Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dessert

Black Forest Cake: Indulge in the rich layers of chocolate cake, whipped cream, and cherry filling. This classic German dessert is perfect for any celebration.

Cherry Almond Coffee Cake: Start your morning with a delightful coffee cake featuring a moist almond-flavored batter and bursts of cherry goodness. Perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.

Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Cake: Experience the decadent combination of chocolate cake layers filled with raspberry preserves and covered in a rich chocolate ganache. A true treat for chocolate lovers.

Cherry Cheesecake Brownies: Combine the best of both worlds with these fudgy brownies swirled with cherry cheesecake. Each bite is a perfect balance of rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake.

Chocolate Cherry Trifle: Layer chocolate cake, cherry pie filling, and whipped cream in a beautiful trifle dish. This dessert is as stunning to look at as it is delicious to eat.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory bites. Large mushroom caps are filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The filling is then topped with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, creating a crispy and golden crust. Bake until the mushrooms are tender and the topping is perfectly browned. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with this classic appetizer. Start with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with garlic for an extra kick. Top each slice with a fresh mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of crunchy bread and juicy tomatoes creates a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness of this delightful dish.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs. The chicken is then grilled to perfection, achieving a beautiful char and a burst of flavor in every bite. Serve it alongside a refreshing cucumber salad and roasted potatoes for a complete meal that will impress your guests.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. These vibrant peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce, seasoned with spices and herbs. Baked until tender, the peppers are topped with melted cheese for an irresistible finish. Pair them with a side of garlic bread and a green salad for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Why trust this Chocolate Cherry Texas Sheet Cake Recipe:

This chocolate cherry Texas sheet cake recipe is a tried-and-true favorite, combining the rich flavors of chocolate and cherry pie filling for a delightful dessert. The sour cream in the batter ensures a moist and tender crumb, while the unsweetened cocoa powder in both the cake and frosting adds a deep, satisfying chocolate flavor. Topped with maraschino cherries, this cake is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Perfect for gatherings, this recipe has been tested and loved by many, making it a reliable choice for any occasion.

Share your thoughts on this delectable Chocolate Cherry Texas Sheet Cake recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

How do I store the leftover cake?

I usually store the leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure it's well-covered to prevent it from drying out.

Can I use a different type of pie filling?

Absolutely! While cherry pie filling adds a nice flavor and texture, you can experiment with other fruit fillings like blueberry or raspberry. Just keep in mind that it might change the overall taste of the cake.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cake a day in advance. Just bake the cake and let it cool completely before adding the frosting and cherries. Store it in an airtight container, and it should be just as delicious the next day.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

If you don't have sour cream on hand, you can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt or even buttermilk. Both options will give you a similar texture and tangy flavor.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. I recommend freezing it without the frosting and cherries. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to serve, thaw it at room temperature and then add the frosting and cherries.