Are you craving a rich, decadent dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this Texas Sheet Cake recipe with a delightful cinnamon twist! This classic Southern dessert is known for its moist, chocolatey texture and irresistible frosting, and our cinnamon addition elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness. Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. It's one of those easy recipes that delivers impressive results, making it a great option for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros looking for a quick dinner dessert.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 15x10 inch baking pan. This ensures your cake releases easily and prevents sticking.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Make sure all the dry ingredients are thoroughly combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Gradually pour in the boiling water while mixing on low speed. The batter will be thin – that's perfectly normal for this type of cake.
Step 2: Baking the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Overbaking will dry out the cake, so keep an eye on it.
Step 3: Making the Frosting
While the cake is still warm, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with the milk, and beat until smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
Step 4: Frosting the Cake
Pour the frosting over the warm cake and spread evenly. The warmth of the cake helps the frosting melt slightly, creating a beautiful, glossy finish. Let the cake cool completely before cutting and serving.
Tips for the Best Texas Sheet Cake:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake.
- Use good quality cocoa powder: This will significantly impact the flavor of your cake.
- Let the cake cool completely before cutting: This prevents the frosting from melting and makes for cleaner slices.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature: This cake is best enjoyed within a few days.
Variations:
- Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts would be a delicious addition to the batter.
- Use different extracts: Experiment with almond extract or peppermint extract for a unique flavor profile.
- Make it a layer cake: Bake the batter in two 9-inch round pans for a layer cake.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Fat: 18-20g Saturated Fat: 8-10g Cholesterol: 40-50mg Sodium: 200-250mg Carbohydrates: 45-50g Sugar: 30-35g Protein: 3-4g
This Texas Sheet Cake with Cinnamon is a simple yet impressive dessert perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this delicious homemade cooking creation! It's a truly delightful addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, offering a comforting and satisfying treat. This easy recipe is sure to become a staple in your best recipes repertoire.