Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting is a delightful dessert that brings together rich chocolate flavor and creamy textures. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, a family gathering, or simply a weekend treat. The combination of moist chocolate cake, velvety pudding, and luscious frosting makes it irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, ensuring you can impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Decadent: The rich chocolate flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps make this a fun baking project for all skill levels.
• Perfect for Sharing: The large sheet cake serves a crowd, making it ideal for parties and gatherings.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize with your favorite toppings to suit any theme or celebration.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the cake in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will streamline your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• 9×13 baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing ingredients easier and more efficient, especially for large batches.
• 9×13 baking pan: Provides the perfect size for baking this sheet cake evenly.
• Whisk: Ensures that ingredients are well combined and smooth, particularly for the pudding mixture.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake

• 2 cups sugar
• 1¾ cups flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup hot coffee (or boiling water)

For the Chocolate Pudding

• 6 ounces chocolate pudding mix
• 2 cups whole milk

For the Chocolate Frosting

• 1½ cups unsalted butter
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 6 cups powdered sugar
• ⅔ cup milk (add more if needed)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings

• 26 Oreo cookies, crushed into crumbs
• 10 ounces pectin-based gummy candies

How to Make Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13 baking pan with baking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a stand mixer on low speed:
1. Combine sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients while mixing on low speed. Then increase to medium speed until just combined.
4. Carefully add hot coffee by hand-stirring to avoid splashes.

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before proceeding.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Pudding

In a mixing bowl:
– Whisk together chocolate pudding mix and milk until smooth.
– Let sit for about 5 minutes until thickened.

Spread the pudding evenly over the cooled cake and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

In a large saucepan:
– Melt butter over low heat. Whisk in cocoa powder until smooth.
– Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before pouring into your stand mixer.

On medium speed:
– Gradually add powdered sugar and milk, alternating about one-third at a time until fully combined and smooth.
– Add vanilla extract last. If your frosting is too thick, add more milk as needed.

Spread frosting generously over the pudding layer once set.

Step 5: Assemble Your Cake

Sprinkle crushed Oreo crumbs over the top of the frosting.
Decorate with pectin-based gummy candies for an extra fun touch!

Now you have an incredible Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting ready to wow your friends and family! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

Serving your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting can elevate any gathering or celebration. Here are some delightful ways to present this delicious dessert.

Family Style

• Large Slices: Cut the cake into generous portions and serve on a big platter, allowing everyone to help themselves.
• Individual Plates: Serve slices on individual plates for an elegant presentation, possibly garnished with fresh berries.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Pairing the rich chocolate cake with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast in flavors.
• Mint Chocolate Chip: For a refreshing twist, serve with mint chocolate chip ice cream that complements the chocolate beautifully.

Toppings Galore

• Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice for extra creaminess.
• Fresh Berries: Decorate the plate with strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Perfect Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

Perfecting your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting can take it from good to great. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Bold Use of Quality Ingredients: Always choose high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate pudding mix for richer flavor.
• Bold Ensure Proper Mixing: Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can lead to a dense cake.
• Bold Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; start checking at 30 minutes to prevent overbaking.
• Bold Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding pudding and frosting. This prevents melting and sogginess.
• Bold Adjust Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too thick, add a little milk until it reaches your desired spreadable consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your Chocolate Sheet Cake can enhance the overall experience. Here are some recommendations:

1. Bold Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavors.
2. Bold Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit is light and complements the cake’s richness well.
3. Bold Nutty Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars provide a crunchy texture that balances the softness of the cake.
4. Bold Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a crunchy, slightly acidic side that pairs well with sweet desserts.
5. Bold Mini Cheesecakes: Bite-sized cheesecakes add variety and are perfect for those who want just a small taste of sweetness.
6. Bold Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate between bites of the rich cake, making it ideal for warm gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting can be fun, but mistakes can happen. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Bold Measurement Errors: Not measuring ingredients accurately can ruin your cake’s texture. Use dry and liquid measuring cups specifically designed for each type.

• Bold Skipping the Cooling Step: Frosting a warm cake will cause the frosting to melt. Always let your cake cool completely before adding any toppings or frosting.

• Bold Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Combine ingredients until just blended for a light and fluffy texture.

• Bold Ignoring Oven Temperature: Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your cake bakes at the correct temperature for best results.

• Bold Not Using Baking Spray: Failing to properly grease your baking pan may cause sticking. Make sure you spray your pan generously before pouring in the batter.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the cake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator without losing flavor.

Freezing Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• You can freeze it for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes; cover with foil to prevent drying.

• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds; check frequently to avoid overheating.

• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for even warming; this usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting.

Can I use a different type of milk?

You can substitute whole milk with almond, soy, or oat milk if you prefer a dairy-free option. The flavor will remain rich and delicious.

How do I make this cake gluten-free?

Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that other ingredients are also gluten-free before using them.

Can I add nuts or fruits?

Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or even fresh berries make great additions. Just fold them into the batter gently before baking.

How long does this cake keep?

The Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it!

What if my pudding layer is too thin?

If the pudding doesn’t thicken as expected, let it sit longer or whisk in more pudding mix until you reach your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting is not only indulgent but also versatile enough for any celebration. You can customize it by adding your favorite toppings or flavors, making it perfect for birthdays or gatherings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful treat that everyone will love!