Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting is the perfect dessert for any occasion. This moist, rich cake layered with creamy chocolate pudding and topped with luscious frosting will surely impress your guests. Ideal for birthday parties, potlucks, or family gatherings, its delightful flavors and eye-catching presentation make it a standout choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate cake, pudding, and frosting creates a rich and indulgent dessert that chocolate lovers will adore.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as is or add fun toppings like crushed cookies and gummy candies to suit your occasion.
• Great for Sharing: Its large size makes it an excellent choice for gatherings, ensuring there’s enough to go around.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare this cake in advance to save time on the day of your event.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool helps mix ingredients thoroughly and quickly, especially when combining dry and wet components.
• 9×13 baking pan: The perfect size for this sheet cake ensures even baking and easy serving.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for separating different components like pudding and frosting, keeping your workspace organized.
• Whisk: Useful for blending ingredients smoothly, particularly when preparing 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 oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13 baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a stand mixer using low speed, combine:
1. Sugar
2. Flour
3. Cocoa powder
4. Baking powder
5. Baking soda
6. Salt

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:
1. Eggs
2. Milk
3. Vegetable oil
4. Vanilla extract

Add this mixture to the dry ingredients in the stand mixer. Increase speed to medium until just combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Hot Coffee

Carefully add hot coffee by hand-stirring; avoid using the mixer as it may splash.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

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

Step 6: Prepare the Chocolate Pudding

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Pudding mix
2. Milk

Let sit for about five minutes until thickened.

Step 7: Layer the Pudding

Spread the chocolate pudding evenly over the cooled cake. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.

Step 8: Make Chocolate Frosting

In a large saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Whisk in cocoa powder until well combined; remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Pour cooled chocolate mixture into a stand mixer bowl. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk in thirds while mixing on medium speed until smooth.

Add vanilla extract last; if frosting is too thick, adjust with more milk as needed.

Step 9: Frost the Cake

Spread frosting evenly over the layer of pudding.

Step 10: Add Toppings

Sprinkle crushed Oreo crumbs over the frosting and decorate with pectin-based gummy candies for an added touch of fun!

How to Serve Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

Serving your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting can be as delightful as baking it. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will enhance the flavor and presentation of this delicious dessert.

Individual Portions

• Serve cake squares on small plates for a personal touch. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy their own slice.

Ice Cream Accompaniment

• Pair each piece with a scoop of vanilla or mint ice cream. The cold and creamy texture complements the rich chocolate cake beautifully.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice. This lightens the dessert and adds an airy contrast to the dense cake.

Fresh Berries

• Garnish with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the cake nicely.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Drizzle melted chocolate over the frosting for an extra indulgent treat. It adds a glossy finish and enhances the chocolate flavor.

Cake Pops

• Transform leftover cake into cake pops by crumbling and mixing with frosting, then dipping in chocolate. This is a fun way to enjoy any extras!

How to Perfect Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

To achieve perfection in your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting, consider these helpful tips that ensure a moist, flavorful result every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow eggs and milk to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps them blend more easily into the batter.

• Sift dry ingredients: Sifting flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder eliminates lumps and aerates the mixture for a lighter cake.

• Don’t overmix: Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of a light cake.

• Test for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake; it should come out clean when fully baked. This prevents overbaking.

• Chill pudding layer: Letting your pudding set in the refrigerator is crucial for achieving the right thickness on your cake.

• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness. This helps maintain moisture in the cake.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options that complement its rich flavors well.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake, making it a perfect palate cleanser.

2. Nutty Granola
   Crunchy granola adds texture and an earthy flavor; serve it on the side for those who enjoy some crunch alongside their dessert.

3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy side dish that balances out the richness of chocolate cake perfectly.

4. Vanilla Custard
   A smooth custard offers a creamy element that pairs wonderfully with chocolate, enhancing each bite’s richness.

5. Mini Cheesecakes
   Small cheesecakes provide a tangy contrast while being indulgent enough to match your decadent dessert.

6. Chilled Lemon Sorbet
   The zesty sorbet is refreshing after heavy cakes, cleansing the palate between bites of sweet chocolate goodness.

7. Caramel Sauce Dipping Bowl
   A small bowl of caramel sauce allows guests to drizzle or dip their cake pieces for an added layer of sweetness if desired.

8. Roasted Nuts
   Serve seasoned roasted nuts as a crunchy snack option that pairs well without overwhelming your dessert’s flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking a Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting, it’s easy to make mistakes that could affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the Preheating Step: Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking. Skipping this step can lead to an uneven texture and undercooked cake.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make your cake dense. Combine ingredients until just mixed for a light and fluffy texture.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure you have the right amounts. Incorrect measurements can ruin the balance of flavors and textures.

• Ignoring Cooling Times: Allow your cake to cool completely before adding pudding or frosting. This prevents melting and ensures layers stay intact.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Bring your eggs and milk to room temperature for better mixing. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to clump or not rise properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The cake will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

• Wrap pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 15-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid. Warm until heated through, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting so special?

This cake is moist and rich, combining layers of chocolate cake, creamy pudding, and decadent frosting for a delightful dessert experience.

Can I customize my Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting?

Absolutely! You can add different toppings like nuts or fresh fruit. Experiment with flavored puddings or frostings as well!

How long does it take to prepare Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting?

Preparation takes about 20 minutes, while baking requires an additional 30-35 minutes. Including cooling time, plan for about 1 hour total before serving.

Can I use dairy-free alternatives?

Yes! Substitute whole milk with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. You can also use plant-based butter for the frosting.

Is this recipe suitable for parties?

Definitely! This Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting is perfect for gatherings since it serves many people and is easy to slice and serve.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just craving something sweet, it’s sure to please everyone. Don’t hesitate to customize it according to your taste!