Buttermilk Texas Sheet Cake: A Classic Southern Dessert

If there’s one dessert that embodies Southern charm and tradition, it’s the Buttermilk Texas Sheet Cake. Known for its tender chocolate crumb and decadent cocoa frosting, this dessert is perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Made with basic pantry ingredients and baked in a sheet pan, this cake comes together quickly while delivering big on flavor. Whether it’s for a birthday, potluck, or a casual weeknight treat, this classic dessert never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Moist Texture: The buttermilk gives the cake a tender crumb, while the cocoa enhances its chocolatey flavor.
Perfect for a Crowd: Baked in a 12×18-inch pan, it’s ideal for feeding a large group.
Quick and Easy: Simple steps make this recipe approachable for all levels of bakers.
Decadent Frosting: The smooth cocoa frosting adds the perfect finishing touch to this irresistible cake.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1 cup boiling water
½ cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

½ cup unsalted butter
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ cup milk
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

For the Cake:

Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 12×18-inch sheet pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the boiling water and mix until combined.
Combine the Mixtures
Gradually whisk the hot butter mixture into the dry ingredients until the batter is smooth.
Add Buttermilk and Eggs
Stir in the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting.

For the Frosting:

Prepare the Base
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the cocoa powder and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Whisk in Milk
Gradually whisk in the milk and bring the mixture to a boil. Remove from heat.
Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla
Whisk in the powdered sugar until smooth and spreadable. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Frost the Cake
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake using an offset spatula.

Tips for Success

Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix ½ cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Smooth Frosting: Sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the frosting for a lump-free finish.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your buttermilk and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
Easy Clean-Up: Line your sheet pan with parchment paper for effortless removal and minimal mess.

Storage and Serving

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Freeze: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and enjoy!
Serving Suggestion: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence.

Why This Recipe Works

The Buttermilk Texas Sheet Cake combines the rich, fudgy flavor of a classic chocolate cake with the ease of sheet pan baking. The boiling water and cocoa powder create a deep chocolate flavor, while the buttermilk adds moisture and tanginess. The quick-to-make cocoa frosting seeps slightly into the cake, creating an irresistible, gooey texture.

Whether you’re hosting a crowd or simply craving chocolate, this recipe delivers every time