Skillet Texas Sheet Cake

Skillet Texas Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of down-home cooking. This rich, chocolatey cake bakes right in your skillet, making it the perfect choice for a family gathering or a casual get-together with friends. With its fudgy texture and smooth frosting, every bite is filled with warmth and nostalgia. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to make it!

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 320
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 35g
• Sodium: 210mg

Why Make This Skillet Texas Sheet Cake

This cake is not just easy to prepare; it’s also incredibly comforting and satisfying. The use of a skillet means less cleanup and more time enjoying your treats! Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, suitable for birthdays, potlucks, or simply when you want a little chocolate in your life. The combination of melted butter, cocoa, and sugar creates a velvety cake that’s topped with a luscious chocolate frosting—the ultimate indulgence.

How to Make Skillet Texas Sheet Cake

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• For the frosting:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Mixing

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the water and cocoa powder, stirring until well combined. Remove from heat and whisk in the granulated sugar, flour, baking soda, salt, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth. If desired, fold in the chopped pecans for added crunch and flavor.

Step 3: Cooking

Pour the batter into the skillet and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and use a toothpick to check doneness; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.

Step 4: Finishing

While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in cocoa powder and milk, then bring the mixture to a boil. Remove it from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, pour the warm frosting over the top, allowing it to set.

How to Serve Skillet Texas Sheet Cake

Serve this cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. For a festive touch, top with additional chopped pecans or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It’s perfect for birthdays or any casual gathering!

How to Store Skillet Texas Sheet Cake

To store, allow the cake to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices for up to 3 months.

Expert Tips for Perfect Skillet Texas Sheet Cake

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Avoid overmixing the batter; mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or chocolate chips make excellent substitutes.
• Add a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee.

Delicious Variations

• Caramel Texas Sheet Cake: Drizzle caramel sauce over the frosting for a sweet twist.
• Coconut Texas Sheet Cake: Mix shredded coconut into the batter and top with coconut frosting.
• Spiced Texas Sheet Cake: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper for a unique flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use a different type of pan? Yes, if you don’t have a skillet, you can use a 9×13-inch baking pan.
• Is it okay to skip the nuts? Absolutely! This cake is delicious on its own, with or without nuts.
• What if I want a lighter version? Consider using unsweetened applesauce in place of some of the butter and reducing the sugar slightly.
• Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it the day of serving.
• How can I tell when the cake is done? Stick a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is done!

Conclusion

Skillet Texas Sheet Cake is not only an easy recipe to whip up but also brings a rich, chocolaty experience that everyone will enjoy. With its gorgeous frosting and cozy texture, it’s the kind of dessert that turns an ordinary day into a celebration. So gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and enjoy a slice (or two) of this delightful cake—your tastebuds will thank you!