There's no denying the magic of a perfectly moist sheet cake with a layer of delectable chocolate frosting. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers a rich, melt-in-your-mouth cake that's perfect for any special occasion or casual indulgence.
Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, but there are a couple you might need to pick up. Cake flour, which is milled into a fine consistency and has a lower protein content, gives the cake a tender, delicate crumb. Sour cream is another key ingredient, bringing a tangy richness and extra moisture to the cake. Don't skip the light corn syrup in the frosting; it adds a glossy finish and smooth texture.
Ingredients for Moist Sheet Cake with Chocolate Frosting Recipe
cake flour: This finely milled flour creates a tender and soft crumb in cakes.
baking powder and baking soda: These are leavening agents that help the cake to rise.
unsalted butter: Brings a rich and creamy flavor to the cake and frosting.
granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake.
eggs: Give structure and stability to the cake.
vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, creamy aroma to the cake and frosting.
sour cream: Brings a tangy richness and extra moisture to the cake.
milk: Adds moisture and helps blend the ingredients.
confectioners’ sugar: This powdered sugar sweetens and thickens the frosting.
cocoa powder: Gives a deep chocolate flavor to the frosting.
light corn syrup: Adds a glossy finish and smooth texture to the frosting.
rainbow sprinkles: Add a fun, colorful touch to the finished cake.
One reader, Dionne Gunn says:
This moist sheet cake with chocolate frosting recipe is a game-changer! The cake turned out incredibly moist and the chocolate frosting was the perfect balance of rich and sweet. It was a hit at my family gathering and everyone asked for the recipe. I'll definitely be making this again!
Essential Techniques for Making Moist Sheet Cake
How to prepare the cake batter: Combine the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, then mix them together until just combined to avoid overmixing.
How to make the chocolate fudge frosting: Beat the butter until pale and creamy, then gradually add and mix in the confectioners' sugar, cocoa, milk, corn syrup, vanilla, and salt until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with additional milk if needed.
How To Make Moist Sheet Cake with Chocolate Frosting
Made with simple ingredients, this fluffy and moist yellow sheet cake is topped with sweet and decadent chocolate fudge frosting for a fuss-free dessert.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2¼cupscake flour,spoon and leveled
- 2¼tspbaking powder
- ¼tspbaking soda
- ½tspsalt
- 1cupunsalted butter,softened to room temperature
- 1¾cupsgranulated sugar
- 2large eggs,at room temperature
- 2tsppure vanilla extract
- ½cupsour cream,at room temperature
- 1cupwhole milk,at room temperature
For Chocolate Fudge Frosting:
- 1cupunsalted butter,softened to room temperature
- 4½cupsconfectioners’ sugar
- ¾cupcocoa powder,natural unsweetened or Dutch-process
- ½cupwhole milk
- 1tbsplight corn syrup
- 1½tsppure vanilla extract
- ⅛tspsalt
- rainbow sprinkles,optional
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Generously grease a 9×13-inch quarter sheet pan. Set aside.
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Whisk the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together in a large bowl. Set aside.
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Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter and sugar together on high speed for 3 full minutes. Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed.
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Turn the mixer down to medium-high speed and beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until combined. Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl as needed. Beat in the sour cream.
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Add ½ of the cake flour mixture-dry ingredients and ½ of the milk and beat on low speed until combined. Add the remaining dry ingredients and milk and beat on low speed until combined. Do not overmix this batter.
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Whisk batter by hand to make sure there are no lumps at the bottom of the bowl.
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Spread the cake batter into the prepared pan. Smooth it out into a thin, even layer.
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Bake for 36 to 40 minutes or until the top is lightly browned and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Make sure to rotate the cake pan once or twice during bake time.
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Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool in the pan placed on a wire rack. As the cake cools, make the frosting.
Chocolate Fudge Frosting:
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Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter on high speed for about 2 minutes until pale, smooth, and creamy.
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Using a fine-mesh strainer or sieve, sift the confectioners’ sugar and cocoa together. Add the sugar-cocoa mixture to the butter, then beat on low speed for 20 seconds.
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Stop the mixer, then add the milk, corn syrup, vanilla, and salt. Beat on medium-high speed for 2 minutes. If the frosting is too thick, beat in an extra splash of milk.
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Frost cooled cake and top with sprinkles.
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Slice and serve.
Nutrition
- Calories: 722.61kcal
- Fat: 35.32g
- Saturated Fat: 21.83g
- Trans Fat: 1.24g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 9.26g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.57g
- Carbohydrates: 100.81g
- Fiber: 2.43g
- Sugar: 76.73g
- Protein: 5.69g
- Cholesterol: 120.38mg
- Sodium: 253.11mg
- Calcium: 133.93mg
- Potassium: 186.62mg
- Iron: 2.95mg
- Vitamin A: 303.01µg
- Vitamin C: 0.09mg
Pro Tip for Achieving the Perfect Moist Sheet Cake Texture
When making the chocolate fudge frosting, ensure that your butter is at room temperature. This will make it easier to beat and will result in a smoother, creamier frosting. Also, when adding the confectioners’ sugar and cocoa powder, sift them together to avoid any lumps in your frosting. This will give your frosting a smoother texture and a more even chocolate flavor. Lastly, remember to adjust the thickness of your frosting by adding more milk if needed. The consistency should be thick yet spreadable.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Delectable Cake Recipe
Prep ahead: Measure and sift dry ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers to save time on the day of baking.
Room temperature: Ensure all refrigerated ingredients like butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before starting the recipe for quicker mixing and better incorporation.
One-bowl method: Opt for recipes that use the one-bowl method to minimize cleanup and streamline the baking process.
Efficient tools: Invest in efficient tools like a stand mixer or food processor to speed up the mixing and blending process.
Batch baking: Consider doubling the recipe and freezing the extra cake for future use to save time on baking multiple times.
Substitute Ingredients For Moist Sheet Cake with Chocolate Frosting Recipe
cake flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used as a substitute for cake flour. However, for every cup of cake flour, use 1 cup minus 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to achieve a similar texture in the cake.
unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a substitute for unsalted butter in baking. However, it may alter the flavor slightly, so consider using a high-quality margarine for the best results.
granulated sugar - Substitute with brown sugar: Brown sugar can be used as a substitute for granulated sugar in the cake batter. It will add a slightly different flavor and moisture to the cake.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream in the cake batter. It will provide a similar tanginess and moisture to the cake.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a substitute for whole milk in the cake batter. It will add a subtle nutty flavor to the cake.
confectioners’ sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Granulated sugar can be used as a substitute for confectioners’ sugar in the frosting. However, it will not dissolve as easily, so it may result in a slightly grainy texture.
cocoa powder - Substitute with carob powder: Carob powder can be used as a substitute for cocoa powder in the frosting. It will provide a similar chocolate-like flavor with a slightly different taste profile.
light corn syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a substitute for light corn syrup in the frosting. It will add a natural sweetness and a hint of floral flavor to the frosting.
How to Beautifully Present Your Moist Sheet Cake
Elevate the plating: When presenting the sheet cake, consider using a rectangular serving platter to showcase the cake's shape and form. This will create a visually appealing presentation that highlights the moist texture and decadent frosting.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a touch of elegance to the sheet cake by delicately placing edible flowers, such as pansies or violets, on top of the chocolate fudge frosting. This adds a pop of color and a sophisticated touch to the overall presentation.
Incorporate chocolate shards: Create thin, delicate chocolate shards to adorn the top of the cake. These shards can be strategically placed to add height and texture, elevating the visual appeal of the dessert.
Utilize gold leaf accents: For a luxurious touch, consider incorporating edible gold leaf accents around the edges of the sheet cake. The shimmering gold will add a touch of opulence and sophistication to the presentation.
Serve with a side of fresh berries: Accompany the sheet cake with a side of fresh, vibrant berries such as raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries. The burst of color and freshness will complement the richness of the cake and provide a visually stunning contrast.
Dust with cocoa powder: Before serving, delicately dust the platter with a fine layer of cocoa powder to add a touch of elegance and tie in the chocolate flavor of the frosting. This subtle addition enhances the overall presentation.
Create a chocolate drizzle design: Using a piping bag, create an intricate chocolate drizzle design on the serving platter before placing the sheet cake. This artistic touch adds a professional and visually captivating element to the presentation.
Add a touch of edible gold dust: Lightly dust the edges of the cake with edible gold dust to create a luxurious and eye-catching presentation. The subtle shimmer will enhance the overall visual appeal of the dessert.
Essential Tools for Making a Delicious Sheet Cake with Chocolate Frosting
- Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking or roasting food.
- Quarter sheet pan: A shallow baking pan with a 9x13 inch size, suitable for baking sheet cakes and other baked goods.
- Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for blending ingredients together and incorporating air into the mixture.
- Handheld or stand mixer: An electric kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients.
- Rubber spatula: A flexible kitchen tool used for scraping bowls, folding ingredients, and spreading batter.
- Fine-mesh strainer or sieve: A tool used to separate and remove any lumps from dry ingredients and to sift them evenly.
Storing and Freezing Your Moist Sheet Cake for Later
- Let the sheet cake cool completely on a wire rack before storing or freezing.
- To store the cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The chocolate frosting will help keep the cake moist and delicious.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the sheet cake:
- Cut the cake into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped cake pieces in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze the cake for up to 3 months.
- To thaw the frozen cake, remove the desired number of pieces from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Alternatively, you can thaw the cake at room temperature for about 2-3 hours.
- Once thawed, consume the cake within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture. Avoid refreezing the cake, as it may affect the quality and texture of the cake and frosting.
How To Reheat Leftover Sheet Cake
To reheat leftover moist sheet cake with chocolate frosting, the best method is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the cake loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the frosting from drying out or burning. Heat the cake for 10-15 minutes, or until it's warmed through.
Another option is to use the microwave. Place a single slice of cake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 15-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the cake, as it can cause the frosting to melt and the cake to become rubbery.
If you want to reheat a larger portion of the cake, you can use a steamer basket. Fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a simmer. Place the cake in a heat-proof dish and set it in the steamer basket. Cover the pot and steam the cake for 5-10 minutes, or until it's heated through.
For a quicker option, you can also reheat the cake in a toaster oven. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and place a slice of cake on a small baking sheet or piece of aluminum foil. Heat the cake for 3-5 minutes, or until it's warmed to your liking.
If you want to maintain the texture of the frosting, you can remove it before reheating the cake. Use a knife or spatula to gently scrape off the frosting, then reheat the cake using one of the methods above. Once the cake is warm, you can add the frosting back on top.
Interesting Trivia About Moist Sheet Cake with Chocolate Frosting
The moist sheet cake with chocolate frosting recipe is a classic dessert that can be easily customized with different flavors and decorations. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit various occasions, making it a go-to option for gatherings and celebrations.
Is Making Moist Sheet Cake at Home Cost-Effective?
This moist 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 reasonable, and the cake can be enjoyed for multiple occasions. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9 out of 10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it a budget-friendly dessert option.
Is This Cake Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This recipe for a moist sheet cake with chocolate frosting is undeniably delicious, but it's not the healthiest choice. The cake itself is made with refined flour, sugar, and a significant amount of butter, which are all high in calories and low in nutrients. The frosting is also loaded with sugar, butter, and cocoa powder, making it a very indulgent treat.
However, there are a few redeeming qualities to this recipe. The use of whole milk and sour cream adds some protein and calcium to the cake, while the cocoa powder in the frosting provides a small amount of antioxidants. But overall, this cake should be enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of a balanced diet.
To make this recipe a bit healthier without sacrificing too much taste or texture, consider the following modifications:
- Replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
- Reduce the amount of sugar in both the cake and frosting, or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey instead
- Swap out some of the butter for Greek yogurt or mashed avocado to lower the saturated fat content
- Use low-fat milk instead of whole milk to cut down on calories and fat
- Add some fresh fruit to the top of the cake for a burst of natural sweetness and added vitamins
Editor's Opinion on This Moist Sheet Cake Recipe
The recipe for a moist sheet cake with chocolate frosting is a classic and indulgent treat that is sure to please any crowd. The combination of tender cake and rich, fudgy frosting creates a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. The addition of rainbow sprinkles adds a fun and colorful touch, making it perfect for celebrations or gatherings. Overall, this recipe is a winner and is guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth.
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Why trust this Moist Sheet Cake with Chocolate Frosting Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a moist and delicious sheet cake with a rich chocolate frosting. The precise measurements and detailed instructions ensure a perfect result every time. The use of high-quality ingredients such as unsalted butter, pure vanilla extract, and cocoa powder promises a decadent and indulgent flavor. The thorough mixing process and careful baking technique result in a light and fluffy cake with a tender crumb. The addition of sour cream and whole milk enhances the moistness and richness of the cake, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
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