Chocolate Sheet Cake with Milk Chocolate Frosting Recipe
A simple and delectable chocolate sheet cake topped with creamy milk chocolate frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking pan
- Mixing Bowls
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Saucepan (for frosting)
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
- Wire rack (for cooling)
- Offset spatula (for frosting)
Ingredients
For the cake
- 2 cups flour Structure; can substitute with gluten-free blend
- 2 cups sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Dutch-process recommended
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup oil Can use unsalted butter for moisture
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot coffee Enhances chocolate flavor
For the frosting
- 1/2 cup butter Softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Basic type recommended
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 cups milk chocolate Melted; can substitute with semi-sweet chocolate
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan and lightly flour it or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- In a medium saucepan, combine butter, water, and cocoa powder. Heat over medium heat until butter is melted and mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and baking soda.
- Add the cocoa mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- In a small bowl, mix eggs, sour cream, and vanilla. Add to the batter and stir until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Step 3: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Milk Chocolate Frosting
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in cocoa powder and milk.
- Bring just to a simmer, then remove from heat.
- Stir in powdered sugar gradually until smooth.
- Add milk chocolate chips and stir until melted and glossy.
- Stir in vanilla and a pinch of salt. Let cool for 5–10 minutes before frosting the cake.
Step 5: Frost the Cake
- Spread the warm frosting over the cooled cake using an offset spatula. Let it set at room temperature or refrigerate for a firmer finish.
Notes
For best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. Feel free to customize with mix-ins or variations.