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.

The 10 Best Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipes

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

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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