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Ultimate Easy Chocolate Sheet Cake with Rich Fudgy Frosting

This easy chocolate sheet cake is perfect for busy weeknights and gatherings with its moist crumb and rich fudgy frosting that comes together in just one pan. The warm frosting melts into the hot cake, creating layers of chocolate flavor with minimal cleanup required.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1/2 cup 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 your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan, or line with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
  3. Add buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed until smooth and well incorporated.
  4. Gradually pour in the boiling water while mixing on low speed. The batter will be thin - this is normal and creates the moist texture.
  5. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  6. While the cake bakes, prepare the frosting. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in cocoa powder and milk until smooth.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the frosting is smooth and glossy.
  8. Pour the warm frosting over the hot cake immediately after removing it from the oven. Spread evenly with a spatula.
  9. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving. The frosting will set as it cools.

Notes

For extra richness, use high-quality cocoa powder. Don't skip the boiling water step - it helps bloom the cocoa powder and creates a tender crumb. Make sure your cake is hot when you add the frosting. Let the cake cool completely before serving for the frosting to set properly. Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.