Description
This classic chocolate sheet cake is rich, moist, and topped with a pourable warm cocoa frosting that sets into a smooth, fudgy layer. A Southern-style favorite perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or anytime you need a nostalgic chocolate treat.
Ingredients
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp baking soda
1 cup (226g) unsalted butter
1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup (240ml) water
1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter (for frosting)
1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder (for frosting)
6 tbsp whole milk
1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
3 1/2–4 cups (420–480g) powdered sugar, sifted
Optional: 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 13x18-inch sheet pan (or a 9x13 pan for a thicker cake).
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- In a saucepan, combine butter, cocoa powder, and water. Bring to a gentle boil until smooth.
- Pour hot cocoa mixture into dry ingredients and stir to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add to the batter and stir until smooth.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20–22 minutes for a sheet pan or 30–35 minutes for a 9x13 pan, until a toothpick comes out clean.
- While the cake bakes, make the frosting: In a saucepan, melt butter with cocoa powder and milk over medium heat. Once it simmers, remove from heat and stir in vanilla and powdered sugar until smooth. Stir in nuts if using.
- Immediately pour warm frosting over hot cake and spread quickly before it sets.
- Let cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Use a 9x13 pan for a thicker cake—adjust bake time accordingly.
Add 1/2 tsp instant espresso powder for a mocha flavor.
Dark cocoa powder can be used for a richer taste.
Gluten-free all-purpose flour works well as a substitute.
Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, refrigerate for longer storage, or freeze slices for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
