Chocolate Sheet Cake With Cocoa

Name: Chocolate Sheet Cake With Cocoa
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; ⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 3 cups powdered sugar; ⅓ cup whole milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Inspiration

I absolutely love baking this chocolate sheet cake with cocoa whenever I have a gathering or just want to treat myself. The process is simple and the result is a moist and decadent cake that everyone seems to enjoy. It’s wonderfully easy to whip up, and I often find myself sneaking a piece before it's fully cooled. The rich chocolate flavor combines beautifully with a light texture, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it's a birthday or just a cozy evening at home.

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2026-02-10T17:49:36.408Z

When I first tried baking this chocolate sheet cake with cocoa, I was amazed at how quick and satisfying it was. I used a blend of cocoa powder and chocolate for an intense flavor that really stands out. One tip I’ve learned is to let the cake cool completely in the pan; this helps it retain moisture and creates a soft texture.

Each time I bake this cake, I play around with the toppings and frostings. I’ve found that a simple chocolate ganache pairs perfectly with the cake’s richness, elevating it even further. Plus, it's a great way to impress my guests without spending hours in the kitchen!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor balanced with a light, fluffy texture
Quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion
Easily customizable with various frostings or toppings

Understanding Cake Ingredients

Each ingredient in this chocolate sheet cake plays a vital role in achieving its unique flavor and texture. For instance, the combination of all-purpose flour and cocoa powder helps to create a light yet flavorful base, while granulated sugar provides not only sweetness but also contributes to the moistness of the cake. Using high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder can significantly enhance the chocolate flavor, so don’t skimp on this essential component.

Eggs are crucial for binding the ingredients together and adding structure to the cake. They help to aerate the batter, resulting in a light and fluffy crumb. If you need a substitute for eggs, consider using flaxseed meal or applesauce. However, keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture of the final product.

Baking Technique Tips

When you're ready to bake, make sure to properly preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking from the beginning. Avoid opening the oven door too frequently during baking, as this can cause the cake to sink due to temperature fluctuations. You're looking for a lightly risen top and clean toothpick test after 30 minutes – if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, it’s perfect.

Mixing the batter should be done with care. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so just combine until the ingredients are blended and smooth. The inclusion of boiling water at the end keeps the batter thin but don't worry—this is what makes the cake incredibly moist once baked.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you'll need to make this delightful chocolate sheet cake with cocoa:

Cake Ingredients

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

Frosting Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3 cups powdered sugar
⅓ cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Once you've gathered all your ingredients, you're ready to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious chocolate sheet cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 13x18 inch baking sheet.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

Add the Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.

Incorporate Boiling Water

Slowly stir in the boiling water until well combined. The batter will be thin.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Prepare the Frosting

In another bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the cocoa powder and powdered sugar, alternating with milk. Stir in the vanilla.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top.

Enjoy this cake as a delightful treat for any occasion!

Pro Tips

To make the cake even more decadent, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter or topping it with fresh berries for a pop of color.

Storing and Serving

This chocolate sheet cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to four days, making it a fantastic make-ahead dessert for gatherings. If you want it to last longer, consider freezing the cake. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Serving suggestions can elevate your enjoyment of this cake. Consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries on the side for a delightful contrast. If you want to add more flair, dust the top of the frosting with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of sea salt for a gourmet touch.

Frosting Variations

While the cocoa frosting in this recipe is rich and delicious, you can customize it to suit your taste. For a creamier texture, try mixing in a bit of cream cheese with the butter while making the frosting. This will add a tangy flavor that nicely complements the chocolate cake.

If you're in the mood for something different, consider making a peanut butter frosting or a simple whipped cream topping. Both can bring a unique twist to the cake, allowing for creative expression based on your flavor preferences. Just ensure any frosting you choose has a similar consistency to easily spread over the cake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use cake flour, but reduce the amount slightly since it is lighter than all-purpose flour.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use 1/4 cup of applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) for each egg.