Chocolate Sheet Cake With Brown Butter Frosting

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Who doesn't love a delicious chocolate cake? And when it comes in the form of a sheet cake with rich brown butter frosting, it's hard to resist.

Chocolate Sheet Cake With Brown Butter Frosting
Servings
12

Method

  1. Place a rack in the middle of the oven and preheat it to 375°.

  2. Take a 13x9 metal baking pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. Lightly coat the paper and sides of the pan with nonstick vegetable oil spray.

  3. In a medium bowl, vigorously whisk together 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar, 1¾ cups (219 g) all-purpose flour, and 1 tsp. baking soda until well combined.

  4. In a large bowl, whisk together ¾ cup (64 g) Dutch-process cocoa powder, ¾ cup vegetable oil, and 1 cup hot tap water until the cocoa is fully dissolved (about 30 seconds).

  5. Add 2 large eggs, ¾ cup well-shaken buttermilk, 2 tsp. Diamond Crystal salt or 1¼ tsp. Morton kosher salt, and 2 tsp. vanilla extract to the cocoa mixture. Whisk again just until combined.

  6. Add the dry ingredients to the cocoa mixture and gently whisk until just combined and the batter is smooth. Scrape the batter into the prepared pan.

  7. Bake the cake for 25-30 minutes, or until it springs back when gently pressed or a tester inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.

  8. If you plan to serve the cake directly from the pan, let it cool in the pan for about 1 hour. If you prefer to serve the

About this recipe

Who doesn't love a delicious chocolate cake? And when it comes in the form of a sheet cake with rich brown butter frosting, it's hard to resist. This classic dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a birthday party, a potluck, or just a sweet treat to enjoy with family and friends.

The Perfect Chocolate Cake

When it comes to chocolate cake, the key is in the chocolate itself. Using high-quality cocoa powder or melted chocolate will give your cake a rich and intense chocolate flavor. And don't forget the sugar! Chocolate cakes tend to be less sweet than other types of cake, so it's important to add the right amount of sugar to balance the flavors.

But what really sets this chocolate cake apart is its texture. A sheet cake is typically thinner than a regular cake, which means it bakes faster and has a moist and tender crumb. It's like biting into a fluffy cloud of chocolatey goodness!

The Magic of Brown Butter Frosting

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the brown butter frosting. Brown butter, also known as beurre noisette, is simply butter that has been cooked until it turns a deep golden brown. This process gives the butter a nutty and caramel-like flavor that takes the frosting to a whole new level.

Just imagine spreading a generous layer of this rich and velvety frosting on top of your chocolate sheet cake. The combination of the moist cake and the creamy frosting is simply irresistible. It's like a match made in dessert heaven!

Tips for Success

Making a chocolate sheet cake with brown butter frosting is easier than you might think. Here are a few tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly:

  1. Use room temperature ingredients for the cake batter to ensure even mixing and a smoother texture.
  2. When browning the butter for the frosting, keep a close eye on it. Butter can go from golden brown to burnt in a matter of seconds.
  3. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting it. This will prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off the cake.

In Conclusion

Chocolate sheet cake with brown butter frosting is a classic dessert that never fails to impress. With its rich chocolate flavor and velvety frosting, it's a treat that everyone will love. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet, this cake is sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings. So go ahead, grab a slice, and indulge in a little chocolatey bliss!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a different type of frosting?

Of course! While the brown butter frosting is a delicious match for the chocolate cake, you can use any frosting you prefer. Cream cheese frosting or a classic buttercream would also be great choices.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have a chance to meld together. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake either before or after frosting it. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the cake batter?

Definitely! Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit would be delicious additions to the cake batter. Just fold them in gently before pouring the batter into the baking pan.

Can I use a different size of baking pan?

Yes, you can use a different size of baking pan, but keep in mind that the baking time may vary. Adjust the baking time accordingly and make sure to check for doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can easily make this cake gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular all-purpose flour. Just make sure to check that all your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I use this recipe to make cupcakes instead of a sheet cake?

Yes, you can use this recipe to make cupcakes. Just adjust the baking time accordingly, usually around 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.

Can I double the recipe to make a larger cake?

Certainly! If you need to make a larger cake, you can double the recipe and bake it in a larger baking pan. Just keep in mind that the baking time may need to be adjusted, so keep an eye on it.

Can I use this recipe for a layer cake instead of a sheet cake?

Absolutely! This recipe can easily be adapted to make a layer cake. Simply divide the batter evenly between two round cake pans and adjust the baking time accordingly. Frost and assemble the layers once they have cooled.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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