Small Batch “Not Quite Texas” Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pecan Fudge Glaze
A delicious small batch chocolate sheet cake, featuring rich cocoa flavors and topped with a decadent pecan fudge glaze, perfect for intimate gatherings or spontaneous cravings.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 200 g white granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 165 g cultured buttermilk
- 95 g neutral-flavored oil (such as sunflower or canola)
- 1 tsp vanilla flavoring
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- 45 g Dutch-process cocoa powder (sifted if clumpy)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 160 g all-purpose flour
Glaze Ingredients
- 85 g unsalted butter
- 23 g Dutch-process cocoa powder (sifted if needed)
- 2 tbsp milk
- 125 g powdered sugar
- small pinch of salt
- 55 g toasted pecans, chopped
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare an 8x8-inch pan by greasing it and lining it with parchment so the edges overhang for easy lifting.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk sugar and eggs until the mixture becomes lighter in color and slightly airy.
- Add buttermilk, oil, vanilla, and salt, mixing until fully blended and smooth.
- Stir in cocoa powder, then incorporate baking powder and baking soda.
- Gently fold in flour until the batter is uniform with no dry streaks.
- Transfer batter to the pan, leveling the surface evenly.
Baking
- Bake for about 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and a tester comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to rest in the pan for about 15 minutes, then lift it out using the parchment and place on a rack to cool slightly.
Glaze Preparation
- For the glaze, melt butter in a saucepan over low heat, then whisk in cocoa until smooth.
- Remove from heat and mix in milk, powdered sugar, and salt until glossy and lump-free.
- Spread the warm glaze over the cake and immediately scatter chopped pecans on top.
Serving
- Serve slightly warm for a gooey texture or let it set for about 20 minutes before slicing.
Notes
For an extra touch, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream alongside the cake. Garnishing with a fresh mint leaf or a dusting of cocoa powder can elevate the presentation.