Yellow Sheet Cake with Chocolate Frosting Recipe

Indulge into this delightful dessert - Yellow Sheet Cake with Chocolate Frosting. It's buttery, moist, and layered with a rich, creamy frosting. The perfect treat for any occasion.

Photos of Yellow Sheet Cake with Chocolate Frosting Recipe

Most of the ingredients needed for this recipe are usually found in the average kitchen. However, do not overlook the importance of using unsweetened baking cocoa for the frosting. It provides a rich chocolatey flavor without extra sweetness. When shopping, also ensure to pick up whole milk, which gives the cake a delicious, creamy texture.

Ingredients for Yellow Sheet Cake with Chocolate Frosting

Unsalted butter: Key to a moist cake and creamy frosting. Its neutral flavor lets other ingredients shine.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the cake base.

Large eggs: Provide structure and moisture to the cake.

Large egg yolks: Enhance the yellow color and richness of the cake.

Vanilla extract: Adds a delicate flavor to both the cake and frosting.

Flour: The base of the cake providing structure.

Baking powder: Leavening agent that makes the cake rise.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Whole milk: Provides moisture and a creamy texture to the cake.

Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.

Unsweetened baking cocoa: Gives the frosting its rich chocolate flavor.

Milk: Thins the frosting to the perfect spreading consistency.

One reader, Angeline Esquivel says:

This yellow sheet cake with chocolate frosting recipe is a game-changer! The cake is moist and fluffy, and the chocolate frosting is rich and decadent. It's the perfect combination of flavors and textures. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a delightful treat that will impress everyone!

Angeline Esquivel

Techniques Required for Making Yellow Sheet Cake

How to prepare the cake batter: Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Then, add in the eggs, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Alternate adding in the milk and the sifted flour mixture until just combined.

How to bake the cake: Spread the prepared cake batter into a 9x13-inch baking pan and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until lightly browned and cooked through.

How to make the chocolate frosting: Cream together the butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla extract in a stand mixer. Start mixing on the lowest setting until just combined, then increase the speed to medium-high and mix for 1 to 2 minutes until light and fluffy.

How to frost the cake: Wait until the cake has completely cooled before spreading the chocolate frosting evenly over the top.

How To Make Yellow Sheet Cake with Chocolate Frosting

This yellow sheet cake is a moist and fluffy treat that’s topped with a rich chocolate frosting made with cocoa, milk, and vanilla.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 35 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupunsalted butter,softened
1½cupssugar
2large eggs
2large egg yolks
2tspvanilla extract
2cupsflour
1tspbaking powder
¼tspsalt
1cupwhole milk

For Chocolate Frosting:

1cupunsalted butter,softened
2¼cupspowdered sugar
⅓cupunsweetened baking cocoa
2tbspmilk
1tspvanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with baking spray.
To stand mixer, add butter and sugar on medium speed, and mix for 1 to 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
Add in the eggs and egg yolks one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
Alternate adding in the milk and the flour mixture until just combined.
Spread into baking pan and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until lightly browned and cooked through.
In a clean stand mixer, cream together butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla.
Mix on the lowest setting until just mixed together, then raise the speed to medium-high, mixing for about 1 to 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
Wait until the cake has cooled before frosting.

Nutrition

Calories: 287.50kcal
Fat: 16.75g
Saturated Fat: 10.31g
Trans Fat: 0.62g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.45g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.79g
Carbohydrates: 33.11g
Fiber: 0.72g
Sugar: 24.21g
Protein: 2.58g
Cholesterol: 72.68mg
Sodium: 53.80mg
Calcium: 39.12mg
Potassium: 57.52mg
Iron: 0.44mg
Vitamin A: 146.71µg

Crucial Technique Tip for Yellow Sheet Cake Success

When making the chocolate frosting, ensure that the butter is at room temperature. This will make it easier to cream together with the powdered sugar and cocoa powder. If the butter is too cold, it can lead to a lumpy frosting. If it's too warm, the frosting may become too thin. Achieving the right consistency is key to a smooth and creamy frosting.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Cake Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the ingredients and measure them out in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-bowl method: Look for recipes that use a single bowl for mixing to minimize cleanup time.

Kitchen organization: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized to easily locate ingredients and utensils.

Efficient multitasking: Plan your cooking process to efficiently handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Time-saving appliances: Utilize kitchen appliances like food processors and stand mixers to expedite food preparation.

Make-ahead options: Opt for recipes that allow for components to be made in advance and assembled later.

Streamlined workflow: Arrange your workspace to create a smooth and efficient cooking flow.

Quick cleanup: Clean as you go to maintain an organized and clutter-free kitchen.

Substitute Ingredients For Yellow Sheet Cake with Chocolate Frosting Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter, providing a similar richness and flavor to the cake.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener and adds a unique flavor to the cake.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a vegan-friendly substitute for eggs, adding moisture and binding the ingredients together.
flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour can be used as a gluten-free alternative to traditional flour, adding a nutty flavor to the cake.
whole milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, adding a subtle tropical flavor to the cake.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda: Baking soda can be used as a leavening agent, especially when combined with an acidic ingredient like buttermilk or yogurt.
unsweetened baking cocoa - Substitute with cacao powder: Cacao powder can be used as a healthier alternative to cocoa powder, providing a rich chocolate flavor with added nutritional benefits.
powdered sugar - Substitute with maple sugar: Maple sugar can be used as a natural sweetener, adding a hint of maple flavor to the frosting.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a subtle nutty flavor to the frosting.

How to Beautifully Present Yellow Sheet Cake

Elevate the plating: When presenting the yellow sheet cake with chocolate frosting, ensure that the cake is placed on a pristine white plate to create a stunning contrast and allow the vibrant colors of the cake and frosting to pop.
Incorporate edible flowers: Add a touch of elegance by garnishing the cake with delicate edible flowers. This not only adds a visual appeal but also brings a subtle floral aroma to the dish.
Utilize chocolate shavings: Sprinkle the top of the cake with fine chocolate shavings to provide a sophisticated and luxurious finish. The shavings will add a delightful texture and a rich chocolate flavor to each bite.
Create a chocolate drizzle: Drizzle a luscious chocolate sauce on the plate in an artistic manner before placing the cake slice. This adds a touch of finesse and elevates the overall presentation.
Add a dusting of powdered sugar: Lightly dust the plate with powdered sugar before placing the cake slice. This simple yet effective technique adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the presentation.
Garnish with gold leaf: For an opulent touch, consider adorning the cake with delicate gold leaf. This luxurious addition will captivate the eyes and add a sense of extravagance to the dessert.

Essential Tools for Making Sheet Cake with Chocolate Frosting

Oven: An essential appliance for baking the sheet cake at the specified temperature.
Stand mixer: Used to cream the butter and sugar, and to prepare the chocolate frosting.
9x13-inch baking pan: The ideal size for baking the sheet cake.
Sifter: Used to sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the ingredients.
Spatula: Used for spreading the cake batter into the baking pan and for frosting the cake.
Cooling rack: Used to cool the cake before frosting.

Storing and Freezing Yellow Sheet Cake with Chocolate Frosting

Once the cake has cooled completely and been frosted, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days.
If you want to keep the cake fresh for longer, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
To freeze the cake, first let it cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also slice the cake into individual portions and wrap each one separately for easier thawing later on. Place the wrapped cake or slices in a freezer-safe container or bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to enjoy the frozen cake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. If you've frozen individual slices, you can thaw them at room temperature for about an hour before serving.
If you want to freeze the cake with the chocolate frosting already on it, first let the frosting set completely in the refrigerator for at least an hour. Then, wrap the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you're ready to serve, let the cake thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bring it to room temperature before slicing and serving.

How To Reheat Leftover Yellow Sheet Cake

To reheat leftover yellow sheet cake with chocolate frosting, first let the cake come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before reheating. This will help the cake reheat more evenly and prevent it from drying out.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. This will help keep the moisture in and prevent the frosting from burning.
Place the cake in the preheated oven and reheat for about 10-15 minutes, or until it's warmed through. The exact time will depend on the size of the piece of cake and how cold it was to begin with.
If you prefer a softer, more moist cake, you can also reheat it in the microwave. Place a single slice of cake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for about 15-20 seconds. If the cake isn't warm enough, continue heating it in 5-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature.
For a crispy top on your reheated yellow sheet cake, remove the aluminum foil for the last 2-3 minutes of reheating in the oven. This will allow the chocolate frosting to crisp up slightly and give the cake a nice texture contrast.
If you find that the cake has dried out a bit after reheating, you can brush it with a simple syrup made from equal parts water and sugar. This will help restore some of the moisture and make the cake taste fresher.
Another option for reheating is to use a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water. Place the cake in the basket, cover it with a lid, and steam for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. This method is particularly useful if you want to reheat a larger portion of the cake at once.

Interesting Fact About Yellow Sheet Cake with Chocolate Frosting

The yellow sheet cake with chocolate frosting recipe is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. It's a versatile treat that can be served at birthday parties, potlucks, or any special occasion. The combination of moist yellow cake and rich chocolate frosting is a timeless favorite. This dessert is perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth and is loved by both kids and adults. It's a simple yet delicious dessert that never goes out of style.

Is Making Yellow Sheet Cake at Home Cost-Effective?

The yellow sheet cake with chocolate frosting recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, and the recipe yields a large cake that can serve a family of four for several days. The cost of the ingredients is relatively low, making it a budget-friendly dessert option. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be an 8 out of 10 for its simplicity, delicious flavor, and affordability. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, depending on the availability and pricing of the ingredients.

Is This Cake Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The yellow sheet cake with chocolate frosting recipe is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

High sugar content: The cake itself contains 1½ cups of sugar, and the frosting has an additional 2¼ cups of powdered sugar. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues.
Significant amount of butter: The recipe calls for 2 cups of unsalted butter in total, which is high in saturated fat. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems.
Refined flour: The recipe uses 2 cups of all-purpose flour, which is a refined carbohydrate. Refined carbohydrates have been stripped of their fiber and nutrients, and consuming too many can lead to blood sugar spikes and increased risk of chronic diseases.
Low in nutrients: The cake lacks fruits, vegetables, or whole grains, which are essential for a balanced and nutritious diet.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the sugar content by using natural sweeteners like applesauce, mashed bananas, or dates. These alternatives can add moisture and sweetness while cutting down on the overall sugar content.
Replace some of the butter with healthier options like Greek yogurt, avocado, or nut butters. These substitutions can help reduce the amount of saturated fat while maintaining the cake's texture and richness.
Swap out half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, almond flour, or oat flour. These alternatives are higher in fiber, protein, and nutrients, making the cake more wholesome.
Incorporate some shredded zucchini, carrots, or beets into the batter. These vegetables can add moisture, fiber, and nutrients without significantly altering the taste of the cake.
Experiment with a lighter frosting option, such as a Greek yogurt-based frosting or a whipped cream cheese frosting. These alternatives can help reduce the amount of sugar and fat in the topping.

Editor's Opinion on This Yellow Sheet Cake Recipe

This yellow sheet cake with chocolate frosting recipe is a classic and delightful dessert. The cake is moist and tender, with a rich buttery flavor, while the chocolate frosting adds a decadent touch. The combination of vanilla and chocolate is timeless and sure to please any crowd. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. Overall, this recipe is a winner for any occasion, from birthdays to potlucks.

Enhance Your Yellow Sheet Cake with Chocolate Frosting Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of parmesan cheese

Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with a balsamic glaze and sprinkled with toasted almonds

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits tossed in a honey-lime dressing

Tomato Basil Soup: Velvety smooth tomato soup infused with fresh basil and a touch of cream

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Yellow Sheet Cake

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy texture makes this soup a crowd-pleaser.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables: These garlic parmesan roasted vegetables are a delicious and healthy side dish that is easy to make. The combination of roasted vegetables with garlic and parmesan creates a flavorful and savory dish that pairs well with any main course.

Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon: This honey mustard glazed salmon is a simple and elegant dish that is perfect for a special dinner. The combination of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a delicious glaze that pairs perfectly with the tender and flaky salmon.

Appetizer and Main Course Pairings for Yellow Sheet Cake with Chocolate Frosting

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. They're the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in this creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip, served with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread. It's a crowd-pleasing appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish by combining tender chicken with a rich and flavorful Alfredo sauce. Serve it over a bed of al dente fettuccine for a satisfying and comforting meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a quick and delicious stir fry by sautéing thinly sliced beef with an assortment of colorful vegetables in a savory sauce. Serve it over steamed rice for a flavorful and nutritious dinner option.

Why trust this Yellow Sheet Cake with Chocolate Frosting Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a moist and flavorful yellow sheet cake that will satisfy your sweet cravings. The unsalted butter and whole milk ensure a rich and creamy texture, while the addition of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile. The decadent chocolate frosting is made with high-quality unsweetened baking cocoa and powdered sugar, resulting in a luscious and indulgent topping for the cake. Trust in the expertise of this recipe to create a delightful dessert that will impress your taste buds.

Share your experience making this Yellow Sheet Cake with Chocolate Frosting and discuss any tweaks you made to the recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum.

FAQ:

How can I make the cake more moist?

To make the cake more moist, you can try adding a little bit of sour cream or yogurt to the batter. This will help to keep the cake moist and tender.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce the amount of additional salt in the recipe to balance the flavor.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the frosting ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature and give it a good stir before using it.

Can I use a different type of milk for the cake?

Yes, you can use different types of milk such as almond milk or soy milk, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the cake.

How should I store the cake after frosting it?

Once the cake is frosted, it's best to store it in the refrigerator to keep the frosting firm and fresh. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out.