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Texas Cake


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Southern Comfort : A classic dessert that’s a staple at Texas gatherings.
  2. Fudgy & Moist : The buttermilk and coffee in the batter deepen the chocolate flavor.
  3. Quick & Easy : Mix in one bowl, bake in a sheet pan, and frost while warm.
  4. Pecan Crunch : Toasted nuts add texture to the silky frosting.
  5. Make-Ahead Friendly : Stays moist for days and freezes beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Serves 12–15

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup water
  • 4 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 large eggs , room temperature
  • ½ cup buttermilk (or ½ cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt

For the Frosting:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 4 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ⅓ cup milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 lb powdered sugar (about 3½ cups)
  • 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
  • Optional : 1 tbsp espresso powder (enhances chocolate taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cake

  1. Preheat Oven :
    Heat to 350°F (175°C) . Grease a 15x10-inch jelly roll pan (or 9x13-inch for thicker slices).

  2. Boil the Base :
    In a saucepan, bring butter, oil, water, and cocoa to a boil. Remove from heat.

  3. Mix Batter :
    Whisk in sugar, eggs, buttermilk, vanilla, baking soda, and salt until smooth. Pour into the pan.

  4. Bake :
    Bake for 18–22 minutes (until a toothpick comes out clean).

Step 2: Make the Frosting

  1. Boil Frosting Ingredients :
    In a saucepan, combine butter, cocoa, milk, and espresso powder (if using). Bring to a boil.

  2. Pour Over Cake :
    Remove cake from oven. Immediately pour the frosting over the warm cake, spreading evenly. Sprinkle with pecans.

  3. Cool & Slice :
    Let cool completely—the frosting will set into a glossy, fudgy layer.