Old Southern Chocolate Pecan Sheet Cake

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Do you want to indulge in a deliciously rich and decadent dessert that will transport you to the heart of the South?

Old Southern Chocolate Pecan Sheet Cake
Prep
30 min
Cook
25 min
Total
55 min
Servings
24

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and grease the bottom and sides of a 9x13-inch pan.

  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of white sugar, flour, and salt.

  3. In a saucepan, combine water, vegetable shortening, margarine, and 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and pour the liquid into the flour mixture. Stir well.

  4. In a large liquid measuring cup, dissolve baking soda in buttermilk. Stir in eggs and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the cake batter and mix until fully combined.

  5. Transfer the batter into the prepared pan and bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched with a finger or a tester comes out clean.

  6. While the cake is baking, prepare the icing using the reserved saucepan. Combine confectioners' sugar, 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder, butter, milk, vanilla, and pecans in the saucepan. Cook and stir over medium heat until hot but not boiling.

  7. Once the cake is out of the oven, immediately pour the hot icing over it. Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack.

  8. If desired, you can substitute walnuts for the pecans.

About this recipe

Do you want to indulge in a deliciously rich and decadent dessert that will transport you to the heart of the South? Look no further than the Old Southern Chocolate Pecan Sheet Cake! This classic dessert is a true Southern gem that will leave you craving for more.

Why is this cake so special?

Imagine sinking your teeth into a moist and tender chocolate cake, generously studded with crunchy pecans. The combination of flavors and textures is truly out of this world! But what sets this cake apart from other chocolate cakes is its simplicity and versatility. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just want to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is perfect for any event or craving.

A cake with a rich history

Just like any classic Southern recipe, this cake comes with a rich history. Passed down through generations, it has become a staple in Southern households, often served at family gatherings and community events. The recipe has stood the test of time, bringing joy and comfort to countless dessert lovers.

The secret ingredient

What makes this cake truly exceptional is the secret ingredient: love. Every bite of this cake is infused with the love and care put into making it. It's a labor of love that brings people together, creating memories and moments of pure joy.

How to enjoy the cake

There are many ways to enjoy this delectable cake. You can savor it on its own, allowing the flavors to dance on your taste buds. Or, you can pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of homemade whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. However you choose to enjoy it, this cake is sure to satisfy your dessert cravings.

Perfect for any occasion

Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply want to treat yourself, the Old Southern Chocolate Pecan Sheet Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. Its simple yet elegant presentation makes it a crowd pleaser, and its rich flavors will leave your guests asking for seconds.

Make it your own

While the classic recipe is already a delight, there's always room for customization. You can add a touch of cinnamon for a warm and cozy flavor, or sprinkle some sea salt on top for a delightful salty-sweet combination. Get creative and make this cake your own!

Passing down the tradition

Just like the generations before us, we have the opportunity to pass down this cherished recipe to our loved ones. By sharing the Old Southern Chocolate Pecan Sheet Cake with our family and friends, we not only keep the tradition alive but also create new memories that will be treasured for years to come.

In conclusion

The Old Southern Chocolate Pecan Sheet Cake is a dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings people together. With its rich history and simple yet divine flavors, it's a cake that embodies the warmth and hospitality of the South. So go ahead, indulge in a slice of this Southern gem and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Frequently asked questions

. Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?

While pecans are the traditional choice, you can certainly experiment with other nuts like walnuts or almonds. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. In fact, some people believe that the flavors deepen and intensify after a day or two.

. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze any leftover cake for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container.

. Can I use a different frosting?

While the classic recipe uses a rich chocolate frosting, you can certainly get creative with the frosting. Cream cheese frosting or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar can be delightful alternatives.

. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for the appropriate measurements.

. Can I make this cake vegan?

Yes, you can make this cake vegan by substituting dairy products with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter. There are also many vegan chocolate frosting recipes available.

. How long does it take to bake this cake?

On average, this cake takes around 30-35 minutes to bake. However, it's always best to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

. Can I add other flavors to the cake batter?

Absolutely! You can add a teaspoon of espresso powder for a hint of coffee flavor or a teaspoon of orange zest for a citrusy twist. The possibilities are endless!

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

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