Introduction
Moist White Texas Sheet Cake Recipe is a beloved classic known for its rich, moist texture and deliciously sweet chocolate flavor. This particular version, a white Texas sheet cake, elevates the traditional recipe with a light and fluffy vanilla base paired with a decadent frosting. Perfect for gatherings or potlucks, this dessert is sure to win over the hearts of dessert lovers everywhere. It’s easy to prepare and feeds a crowd, making it an ideal choice for parties, celebrations, or just a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
**For the Cake:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
– 1 cup water
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
**For the Frosting:**
– ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– ½ cup milk
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Optional: 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) for garnish
Instructions
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×18 inch sheet pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
2. **Prepare the Cake Batter:**
In a medium saucepan, combine the 1 cup of butter and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the butter is melted. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
3. **Mix Dry Ingredients:**
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
4. **Combine Wet Ingredients:**
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. **Combine Mixtures:**
Pour the warm butter and water mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Then, add the wet ingredients mixture and mix well until the batter is smooth and no lumps remain.
6. **Bake the Cake:**
Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. **Prepare the Frosting:**
While the cake is baking, in a medium bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the milk, mixing until smooth and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
8. **Frost the Cake:**
Once the White Texas Sheet Cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, spread the frosting evenly over the warm cake. If desired, sprinkle with chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
9. **Serve:**
Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting into squares to serve.
Tips
– For a more intense vanilla flavor, consider adding a little more vanilla extract to both the cake and frosting.
– You can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of 1 cup milk and 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice, letting it sit for a few minutes before using it if you don’t have buttermilk on hand.
– Feel free to experiment with different add-ins like chocolate chips or shredded coconut.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this moist white Texas sheet cake on its own, or pair it with fresh berries and whipped cream for an extra special treat. It also makes a delightful addition to any picnic or barbecue. For beverages, consider serving with a glass of iced tea or a light, fruity punch for a refreshing experience.
1. What is a White Texas Sheet Cake?
- Answer: A White Texas Sheet Cake is a tender, moist vanilla cake baked in a large sheet pan, often topped with a rich, creamy almond or vanilla frosting. It’s a lighter, vanilla-flavored variation of the classic chocolate Texas Sheet Cake.
2. What size pan should I use for this recipe?
- Answer: Traditionally, a 13×18-inch rimmed baking sheet (jelly roll pan) is used for Texas Sheet Cakes. This size ensures the cake bakes evenly and remains thin, which is characteristic of sheet cakes. If using a smaller pan, adjust the baking time as the cake will be thicker.
3. What makes this cake so moist?
- Answer: The cake’s moisture comes from the use of ingredients like sour cream or buttermilk, which add tang and tenderness. Additionally, the melted butter in the batter creates a rich, moist crumb.
4. Can I substitute sour cream or buttermilk?
- Answer: Yes, you can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk with a DIY version by mixing 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar into 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5–10 minutes.
5. What’s the best way to achieve a smooth frosting?
- Answer: To ensure a smooth frosting, heat the butter and milk for the icing until just melted. Sift the powdered sugar before whisking it in to prevent lumps. If adding almond extract, stir it in at the end for the best flavor.
6. Can I customize the flavor of the frosting?
- Answer: Absolutely! While almond extract is traditional for the frosting, you can use vanilla extract for a milder flavor. For a citrus twist, add a bit of lemon or orange zest. You could also incorporate shredded coconut or chopped nuts for extra texture.
7. How do I prevent the cake from becoming too dense?
- Answer: Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can develop gluten and lead to a dense texture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Also, ensure your leavening agents (baking soda and/or baking powder) are fresh for proper rise.
8. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Answer: Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. Ensure all other ingredients, such as baking powder and flavorings, are certified gluten-free.
9. How should I store White Texas Sheet Cake?
- Answer: Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. For long-term storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 3 months.
10. Can I add toppings or mix-ins to this recipe?
- Answer: Yes! Common additions include slivered almonds, shredded coconut, or sprinkles on top of the frosting. For mix-ins, consider folding in white chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the batter before baking for extra flavor and texture.
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