Pioneer Woman Texas Sheet Cake Recipe

Now here’s a classic Texas sheet cake that combines rich chocolate with a luscious, velvety icing. Can’t ask for more now can we?!

Mix the flour, sugar, and salt. This will create a fluffy and flavorful cake!

Once the cocoa mixture is poured over, you’ll see how it enhances the deep chocolatey flavor – this is the real magic happening my friends.

Another great tip: Stir lightly after adding the boiling water to the cocoa helps prevent the batter from getting too dense.

Your family and friends will appreciate the extra touch that chopped pecans bring!

How to Make Pioneer Woman Texas Sheet Cake

Ingredients

• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 2 cups Sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt
• 1/2 cup Butter
• 4 tablespoons Cocoa Powder (unsweetened)
• 1 cup Boiling Water
• 1/2 cup Buttermilk
• 2 Eggs
• 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Grease a 13×18 inch sheet pan to keep the cake from sticking.

Step 2:

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.

Set this mixture aside.

Step 3:

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Stir in cocoa powder and boiling water until mixed well.

Pour this hot mixture over the dry flour mixture.

Stir lightly to combine, letting it cool slightly.

Step 4:

Mix together buttermilk, eggs, baking soda, and vanilla extract in a separate small bowl.

Add to the butter-flour mixture once cooled.

Stir until smooth and fully combined.

Step 5:

Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan and spread it evenly.

Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Let it cool before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Ingredients

Fresh eggs and butter make a real difference in the texture and flavor of the cake.

Seasoned ingredients lead to a cake that’s fresh and full of flavor.

Adjust for Altitude

If you’re baking at high altitude, reduce the baking soda slightly and increase the baking time.

This will help prevent it from rising too quickly and then falling.

Add a Topping

I love to add some chopped pecans or walnuts to the top of the frosting for extra crunch.

They pair wonderfully with the chocolate base.

Try Different Frosting

Switch up the traditional chocolate frosting with a cream cheese version for a different take.

Both options are deliciously tempting!

What to Serve with Pioneer Woman Texas Sheet Cake

Ice Cream

You can’t go wrong with pairing a slice of Pioneer Woman Texas Sheet Cake with a scoop of ice cream.

Vanilla ice cream is a classic choice that lets the rich chocolate flavors of the cake shine through.

A scoop of coffee or mint chocolate chip ice cream offers a fun twist if you’re feeling adventurous.

Fresh Berries

Adding some fresh berries on the side can give a refreshing contrast to the rich and dense sheet cake.

Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries not only add a pop of color but a burst of tartness.

It’s a delicious combination that feels just right for a summer gathering.

Whipped Cream

A dollop of freshly whipped cream can be the perfect simple complement to your Texas sheet cake.

It’s light and airy, providing a fluffy contrast to the rich and moist cake.

Salted Nuts

Try serving salted nuts alongside your Texas sheet cake for an unexpected flavor balance.

Pecans or almonds can add a crunch and a hint of saltiness.

This combination can highlight the sweetness of the cake while offering something different for your guests.

Spicy Candied Bacon

If you’re open to a more adventurous side, spicy candied bacon can offer a surprising yet harmonious pairing.

The caramelized sweetness and touch of spice offer a contrast to the cake’s richness.

It’s a match that may take your dessert table to new heights!

Variations and Substitutions

Chocolate Variations

When making a chocolate Texas sheet cake, you can experiment with different types of cocoa powder for varied depth in flavor.

Try dark cocoa for a richer taste.

Add a pinch of espresso powder to elevate the chocolate notes.

Frosting Fun

Everyone loves a good frosting! Don’t be afraid to change it up a bit.

Swap regular frosting for a cream cheese version if you prefer tanginess.

Or add a hint of cinnamon to your frosting for a warm, spicy twist.

Nut Options

You can stick to tradition with pecans, or opt for walnuts or almonds for a different texture.

You might even try toasting the nuts for an extra layer of flavor.

No nuts? Try shredded coconut!

Dairy-Free Options

For those avoiding dairy, use almond milk instead of buttermilk.

You can also replace the butter with a vegan alternative or coconut oil.

Adding Fruits

Try incorporating fruit flavors like orange zest or dried cherries into your batter for an unexpected treat.

These little additions can completely transform your Texas sheet cake!

How to Store Leftover Pioneer Woman Texas Sheet Cake

When you find yourself with leftover Pioneer Woman Texas Sheet Cake, storing it properly is essential to keep it fresh and tasty.

In the Fridge

Wrap the leftover cake in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

This will help prevent the cake from drying out while retaining its rich, chocolatey moisture.

For even better freshness, store the wrapped cake inside an airtight container.

In the Freezer

Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible.

You can freeze the cake for up to three months; just make sure the layers don’t get squished.

Label the bag with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Single Portions

Cut the leftover cake into individual servings before storing.

This makes it easier to grab a piece without disturbing the rest.

Single portions are perfect for quick and convenient treats on busy days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Incorrect Oven Temperature

One common mistake when making Pioneer Woman Texas Sheet Cake is using the wrong oven temperature.

Make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature specified in your recipe.

Not Mixing Ingredients Properly

Another issue arises if you don’t mix the ingredients thoroughly.

The batter needs to be smooth and free of lumps for a perfect cake texture.

Adding Ingredients Out of Order

Watch out for adding ingredients in the wrong sequence.

This can affect the cake’s chemistry, causing problems with texture and taste.