Go Back
easy-chocolate-sheet-cake-with-fudgy-chocolate-frosting_feature

Easy Chocolate Sheet Cake with Fudgy Chocolate Frosting

This classic chocolate sheet cake is the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert that comes together in just one pan, perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or last-minute potluck contributions. The rich cocoa flavor and velvety chocolate frosting make it irresistible to both kids and adults alike, with a moist texture that stays fresh for days.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan and set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
  3. Add eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed until smooth and well incorporated, about 2 minutes.
  4. Carefully pour in boiling water and mix on low speed until combined. The batter will become thin.
  5. Pour batter into prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until toothpick inserted into center comes out clean.
  6. Allow cake to cool completely in pan before frosting.
  7. Prepare frosting: In medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in cocoa powder until smooth, then add milk and bring to gentle simmer.
  8. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until frosting is smooth and glossy.
  9. Pour warm frosting over cooled cake, spreading evenly with spatula. Frosting will set as it cools.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature ingredients. Don't skip the boiling water step as it helps bloom cocoa powder. If no buttermilk, add 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup milk and let sit 5 minutes. Cake tastes better the next day and freezes well for up to 3 months.