If you’re looking for the ultimate dessert to impress your guests, Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the answer. This decadent cake brings together the best of both worlds: a rich, moist chocolate cake paired with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, this chocolate sheet cake is the perfect choice. Unlike traditional layered cakes, Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is easy to make and serves a crowd effortlessly, making it a go-to dessert for any gathering. The combination of deep chocolate flavor and smooth frosting will leave everyone wanting more.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to create this indulgent Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting from scratch. And while you’re at it, check out our Iced Tahini Coffee for a refreshing, unique drink to pair with your cake.
Ingredients for a Heavenly Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
For the ultimate indulgence, this Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is made even more irresistible with a selection of handpicked ingredients. Below is a breakdown of the essentials you’ll need to make both the rich chocolate sheet cake and its creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients for the Cake:
- All-purpose flour: The essential base that provides structure, making the cake both soft and firm at the same time.
- Granulated sugar: The sweet foundation that also locks in moisture, ensuring your cake stays moist from the first bite to the last.
- Dutch-process cocoa powder: With its velvety smoothness, this cocoa brings out an enhanced, richer chocolate flavor that regular cocoa can’t match.
- Baking soda & baking powder: These two work in tandem, elevating the cake to new heights with the perfect balance of fluffiness and rise.
- A pinch of salt: Salt doesn’t just enhance the sweetness, it brings a deep richness to the chocolate, heightening its complexity.
- Eggs: These act as the glue, binding together the ingredients for a solid structure and adding richness to the cake’s texture.
- Buttermilk: The subtle tang of buttermilk reacts with the baking soda, giving the cake its irresistibly tender crumb. Swap it for a non-dairy milk alternative like oat or almond milk if you prefer.
- Hot brewed coffee: The warmth and boldness of the coffee intensify the cocoa flavor, enriching the chocolate taste with a deeper layer.
- Vegetable oil: This ingredient adds moisture and lightness without leaving a greasy aftertaste, keeping the cake perfectly tender.
- Vanilla extract: A dash of pure vanilla pulls together the cake’s sweetness, enhancing the chocolate’s depth in a seamless marriage of flavors.
Ingredients for the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Cream cheese: The heart and soul of the frosting, bringing a velvety smooth texture with a tangy bite that balances the cake’s richness.
- Butter: Butter imparts a creamy richness, helping to smoothen the frosting to perfection while providing a luxurious mouthfeel.
- Powdered sugar: This fine sugar adds sweetness without compromising the light, fluffy consistency of the frosting.
- Vanilla extract: A hint of vanilla enhances the cream cheese’s tanginess, deepening the flavor and rounding out the frosting’s sweetness.
Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
This Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a rich and decadent dessert perfect for any occasion. The moist chocolate cake, paired with the tangy cream cheese frosting, creates an irresistible balance of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a celebration or just indulging in a sweet treat, this cake will not disappoint.
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup hot coffee
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch sheet pan. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the cake.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, hot coffee, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the frosting: While the cake cools, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt, and beat until fluffy and spreadable.
- Frost the cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Decorate with sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries if desired.
Notes
For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne to the cake batter. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Key Ingredients for Crafting the Ultimate Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Why This Chocolate Sheet Cake is the Ultimate Choice
Chocolate sheet cake with cream cheese frosting has earned its spot as a favorite dessert, and it’s easy to see why. Its charm lies in its effortless simplicity, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and the perfect harmony between the deep chocolate flavor and the tangy cream cheese frosting. Unlike traditional layered cakes, this sheet cake is not only quicker to prepare, but it also requires fewer ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all levels. Best of all, it’s a guaranteed hit at any event, whether it’s a birthday, a celebration, or a cozy family gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect Cake
To bake the ultimate chocolate sheet cake with cream cheese frosting, you’ll need a few key ingredients to get that perfect texture and flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- For the Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-process preferred)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup hot coffee (for rich flavor)
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt to balance sweetness
How to Bake a Show-Stopping Chocolate Sheet Cake
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Cake
- Preheat the Oven & Prepare Your Pan: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan. Grease it with butter or oil and lightly dust with flour, or line it with parchment paper to make sure your cake comes out effortlessly once it’s baked.
- Blend the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Sifting is crucial—it evenly mixes the dry ingredients and eliminates any clumps, ensuring a smoother, more consistent batter.
- Add the Wet Ingredients: Next, pour in the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Gently fold them into the dry ingredients until everything is just combined. Don’t be tempted to overmix, as this can lead to a dense, heavy cake instead of a light, fluffy one.
- Mix in the Hot Coffee: Pour the hot coffee into the batter, and stir until well combined. The batter may appear thin, but don’t worry—this will result in a moist, tender cake once baked, with a deep, intense chocolate flavor.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan, smoothing it into an even layer. Bake for roughly 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Start checking around the 20-minute mark, as oven temperatures can vary, and you want to avoid overbaking.
- Cool Before Frosting: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Be patient and let it cool completely before frosting—frosting a warm cake can cause the icing to melt and lose its smooth, thick consistency.
Pro Tips for a Perfectly Moist and Fluffy Cake
Be Patient While Cooling: Give the cake ample time to cool completely. Frosting a warm cake may cause your frosting to become runny, and we want that perfect layer of smooth, fluffy frosting on top!
Don’t Overmix: Mix only until everything is just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can lead to a dense, heavy texture.
Preheat Your Oven Properly: Make sure your oven has reached the correct temperature before placing the cake inside. A properly preheated oven ensures even baking, helping your cake rise and cook evenly.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll have a beautifully baked Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting that’s moist, tender, and ready to be frosted.
Tips and Tricks for Decorating Your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Innovative Ideas for Decorating Your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Decorating your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you want to go simple or get a bit more elaborate, there are several ways to make your cake visually stunning. The cream cheese frosting is already rich and inviting, but a few extra touches can take it to the next level.
- Swirled Frosting: After spreading the frosting evenly over the cake, use an offset spatula to create gentle swirls and waves. This will give the cake a rustic, homemade feel. You can also use the back of a spoon to create a textured pattern, adding more visual appeal.
- Chocolate Shavings: Grate some extra chocolate or use chocolate chips to create a beautiful topping. Sprinkle the shavings generously over the top of your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. The combination of smooth frosting and crunchy chocolate will delight your guests with both flavor and texture.
- Fresh Berries: Top your cake with vibrant fresh berries such as raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries for a pop of color and a refreshing contrast. Their sweet-tart flavor beautifully balances the richness of the chocolate and cream cheese frosting, elevating both the look and taste of your dessert.
- Nuts and Caramel: For an added crunch and rich flavor, consider sprinkling chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts over the top. If you want to add a touch of decadence, drizzle caramel sauce over the nuts for a sweet finish.
- Edible Flowers: For a special touch, adorn your cake with edible flowers like lavender, pansies, or marigolds. These vibrant blooms will give your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting a sophisticated, festive flair. Just be sure to confirm that the flowers are food-safe before using them as decoration.
Other Topping Ideas for a Unique Touch
- Crushed Cookies: You can crush your favorite cookies, like Oreos or graham crackers, and sprinkle them over the frosting for added crunch. This adds texture and a fun twist on traditional decorations.
- Sprinkles: For a playful touch, use colorful sprinkles. They work especially well if you’re making this cake for a child’s birthday or a casual get-together. They’ll add a pop of color that contrasts nicely with the chocolate and cream cheese.
- Whipped Cream: If you prefer a lighter topping, a dollop of freshly whipped cream can complement the richness of the cake. Add a touch of vanilla to the whipped cream for a soft, airy texture that pairs beautifully with the cream cheese frosting.
How to Avoid Common Decorating Mistakes
Decorating a Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting doesn’t have to be intimidating, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:
- Going Overboard with Frosting: It’s easy to get carried away, but remember, a little frosting goes a long way. The goal is to enhance the cake, not drown it. Start with a modest layer and add more if needed.
- Uneven Frosting: If your frosting is too thick or too thin, it can be difficult to spread evenly. Make sure the frosting has the right consistency by beating it for a little longer or refrigerating it for a short time if it’s too soft.
- Skipping the Cake Cooling Process: Avoid frosting the cake while it’s still hot. Always make sure your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting has cooled completely before applying the frosting. This ensures the frosting stays intact and doesn’t melt into the cake.
By following these simple decorating tips, you’ll make your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Get creative and make the cake as simple or elaborate as you like, depending on the occasion.
Variations of Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Adding a Hint of Spice: How to Spice Up Your Chocolate Sheet Cake
While Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is already an indulgent treat, you can easily enhance its flavor with a bit of spice to make it even more exciting. A touch of spice can complement the rich chocolate and add a unique twist to the cake. Here are some ideas to spice things up:
- Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to your cake batter brings a warm, cozy flavor that pairs beautifully with the chocolate. These spices are especially perfect for fall or winter celebrations, adding a bit of depth and complexity to the flavor profile of your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.
- Chili Powder or Cayenne Pepper: For those who love a little heat, consider adding a small amount of chili powder or cayenne pepper. The gentle heat will create a delightful contrast with the sweet frosting, enhancing the rich chocolate taste. This is a great option for those who want to try something adventurous with their dessert.
- Ginger: A teaspoon of ground ginger in the cake batter adds a fresh, zesty kick that pairs perfectly with the richness of chocolate. You could even add some finely grated fresh ginger for a more intense flavor.
Transforming the Cake into a Cupcake Version
If you want to make individual portions of Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, turning the cake into cupcakes is an excellent idea. Here’s how you can do it:
- Prepare the Batter: Follow the same instructions as you would for the sheet cake, but instead of pouring the batter into a sheet pan, fill a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Fill each liner about two-thirds of the way to allow the cupcakes space to expand as they bake.
- Bake the Cupcakes: Bake the cupcakes at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be sure to check the cupcakes early, as they bake faster than a sheet cake.
- Cool and Frost: Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, apply the cream cheese frosting in a swirl on top of each cupcake. For a fun twist, you can add different toppings to each cupcake, such as sprinkles, chocolate chips, or mini marshmallows.
Transforming your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting into cupcakes is a great way to make serving easier, especially if you’re having a party or need individual portions for guests.
Other Fun Variations to Try
- Chocolate and Peanut Butter: For a timeless flavor blend, stir peanut butter into your frosting. Combine ½ cup of peanut butter with cream cheese and butter before incorporating the powdered sugar. The smooth, salty peanut butter beautifully complements the chocolate cake, giving the frosting a rich, indulgent twist.
- Coffee and Chocolate: If you’re a coffee lover, you can add an extra shot of espresso to your cake batter to create a more intense flavor. The coffee will deepen the chocolate flavor, making each bite even more indulgent. For a mocha flavor, try mixing in a tablespoon of instant coffee granules into the frosting.
- Chocolate and Raspberry: For a refreshing twist, incorporate fresh raspberries into the frosting or use them as a topping. Their tartness perfectly balances the sweetness of the frosting, offering a vibrant contrast to the rich chocolate cake.
These variations make it easy to customize your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting to suit different preferences and occasions. Whether you’re looking for a spiced-up version or a fun twist like cupcakes, the possibilities are endless. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations that will make your cake stand out.
Can You Make This Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Dairy-Free?
Substituting Ingredients for a Dairy-Free Version of Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
For those with dairy sensitivities or who follow a dairy-free diet, making a Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is still entirely possible with a few simple substitutions. You can easily replace the dairy ingredients without compromising on flavor or texture.
- Butter Substitutes: To replace the unsalted butter in the cake, you can use dairy-free butter or a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegetable oil. Both will provide the necessary moisture to keep the cake soft and tender. For the frosting, you can use vegan butter or margarine as a substitute for the traditional butter.
- Buttermilk Replacement: If the recipe calls for buttermilk, you can easily create a dairy-free alternative by mixing 1 cup of plant-based milk (such as almond milk or oat milk) with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes before using it in the recipe. It will mimic the tanginess and acidity of buttermilk, helping to maintain the texture of the cake.
- Cream Cheese Substitution: For the cream cheese frosting, there are various dairy-free options available, including vegan cream cheese brands made from coconut oil or almonds. Look for non-dairy cream cheeses that are smooth and have a mild flavor, so they mimic traditional cream cheese as closely as possible. For a more luxurious frosting, try blending vegan cream cheese with coconut cream for a richer, more indulgent texture.
- Egg Replacement: If you also need an egg-free option, you can substitute eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg replacer. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken, and use this mixture in place of each egg.
Does the Flavor Change with Dairy-Free Ingredients?
When you swap dairy ingredients for their plant-based counterparts, the flavor of your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting might have subtle differences, but the overall taste and texture can remain similar. Dairy-free butters and milk alternatives usually have a mild flavor, and when paired with the rich chocolate and sweet frosting, the differences are often undetectable. Vegan cream cheese may have a slightly less tangy flavor than traditional cream cheese, but it still creates a creamy, smooth frosting that pairs perfectly with the chocolate cake.
Dairy-Free Tips for Success
- Double-Check Labels: When purchasing dairy-free products like cream cheese, butter, and milk, always check the labels to ensure they’re completely dairy-free and vegan-friendly.
- Flavor Adjustments: If you’re using a dairy-free butter or margarine that has a strong flavor, you might want to adjust the sweetness of your frosting to balance it out.
- Keep It Moist: Dairy-free cakes can sometimes turn out a bit drier than traditional cakes. To avoid this, you can increase the amount of liquid (like plant-based milk) in the batter or add an extra tablespoon of oil or applesauce to maintain the moisture.
By following these substitutions, you can easily enjoy a Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting that is both dairy-free and delicious. Whether you’re catering to dietary preferences or simply want to try a new variation, this dairy-free version will still be a hit at any gathering.
FAQs
Why do you add hot coffee in chocolate cake?
Hot coffee intensifies the chocolate flavor, creating a rich and moist cake. It helps to bring out the deep cocoa taste without making the cake taste like coffee.
Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Yes! You can easily make this chocolate sheet Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting dairy-free by substituting butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegetable oil and using dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting.
Can I leave out the coffee?
Although coffee amplifies the chocolate flavor, it’s optional. Omitting it will slightly reduce the richness of the chocolate, but you can easily substitute with hot water if you’d rather skip the coffee.
Can I Use Natural Cocoa Powder Instead of Dutch Process?
Yes, natural cocoa powder can be swapped in, though it will alter the flavor slightly. Dutch Process cocoa has a smoother, milder taste, whereas natural cocoa has a more pronounced acidic edge.
Conclusion
There’s a reason Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting continues to be a go-to recipe for bakers of all skill levels—it’s simple to prepare, incredibly moist, and undeniably delicious. The smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting perfectly complements the rich chocolate base, creating a dessert that’s as balanced as it is indulgent.
What makes this Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting stand out is its versatility. From birthdays to potlucks, it suits any celebration. You can easily adapt the recipe into cupcakes, add flavor twists, or top it with decorative finishes like berries or sprinkles. However you serve it, the result is always an eye-catching and crowd-pleasing dessert.
If you’ve never made a Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, now is the perfect time to start. Once you taste it, it’ll quickly become a staple in your dessert rotation. And if you’re already a fan, this version just might become your new favorite.
From the very first bite to the last crumb, this Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting delivers everything you want in a homemade dessert—flavor, texture, simplicity, and joy.
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