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chocolate sheet cake recipe

Chocolate Sheet Cake

Avatar photoGrace Ovendale
A rich and moist chocolate sheet cake perfect for parties and gatherings. Easy to make and sure to delight any crowd with its decadent chocolate flavor.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 24 slices
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9x13-inch sheet pan greased and floured
  • 1 electric mixer
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water

Chocolate Frosting

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch sheet pan or line it with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  • In another bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in boiling water until the batter is smooth.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  • Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting

  • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add cocoa powder and powdered sugar, alternating with milk until smooth.
  • Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake using a spatula or butter knife.

Serving and Storage

  • Cut the cake into slices and serve. Pair with coffee or milk for a delightful treat.
  • Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter. Don't overmix to keep the cake fluffy. Allow the cake to cool before frosting.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute buttermilk with a mixture of milk and vinegar if needed.
How to Serve: Best served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Can be made a day in advance.
Make-Ahead Tips: Bake the cake a day before and frost it on the day of serving.
Keyword chocolate sheet cake, easy chocolate cake, sheet pan desserts