Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting is a delightful dessert that combines rich chocolate flavor, creamy pudding, and velvety frosting, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a potluck, or simply craving something sweet, this cake is sure to impress. Its moist texture and layered elements create a unique experience that will satisfy both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of chocolate cake, pudding, and frosting makes each bite decadently delicious.
• Versatile: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just an everyday treat; you can customize toppings based on the occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its generous size ensures there’s enough to share, making it ideal for gatherings.
• Fun Presentation: Topped with crushed Oreo cookies and gummy candies, this cake looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes mixing the batter easier and helps achieve a smooth consistency without much effort.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows for efficient organization of ingredients during preparation.
• Baking spray: Ensures your cake comes out easily from the pan without sticking.
• Spatula: Perfect for spreading frosting evenly on the cake surface.

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

For 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: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Batter

1. In a stand mixer on low speed, combine:
2. Sugar
3. Flour
4. Cocoa powder
5. Baking powder
6. Baking soda
7. Salt
8. In a small bowl, whisk together:
9. Eggs
10. Milk
11. Oil
12. Vanilla extract
13. Add the wet ingredients to the mixer on low speed, then increase to medium speed until just combined.
14. Carefully add hot coffee by hand-stirring to avoid splashes.
15. Pour batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
16. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Pudding

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
2. Pudding mix
3. Milk
4. Let sit for 5 minutes until thickened.
5. Spread pudding evenly over the cooled cake and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Frosting

1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over low heat.
2. Whisk in cocoa powder until combined; remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Pour cooled chocolate mixture into stand mixer.
4. On medium speed, gradually add powdered sugar alternating with milk until fully combined and smooth.
5. Add vanilla extract last; if frosting is too thick, add more milk as needed.
6. Spread frosting over the pudding layer evenly.

Step 5: Assemble Your Cake

Sprinkle crushed Oreo crumbs generously over the frosting and decorate with pectin-based gummy candies for an extra fun touch! Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting!

How to Serve Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

Serving your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting can elevate any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a potluck, or just a sweet treat at home, these serving suggestions will make your cake shine.

Personalize Each Slice

• Add Fresh Berries: Top each slice with strawberries or raspberries for a fresh contrast.
• Serve with Ice Cream: Pair the cake with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent experience.

Create a Dessert Bar

• Include Toppings: Set up a toppings bar with crushed nuts, sprinkles, or extra gummy candies for guests to customize their slices.
• Offer Whipped Cream: Provide whipped cream as an option for those who love creamy textures alongside the rich cake.

Pair with Beverages

• Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee complements the chocolate flavor beautifully.
• Milkshakes: For a fun twist, serve mini milkshakes on the side for an extra treat.

How to Perfect Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

Perfecting your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your cake turns out delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and milk are at room temperature for better mixing and volume.
• Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour and cocoa powder eliminates lumps and helps create a lighter cake texture.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix until ingredients are just combined to prevent a dense cake.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even cooking.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the cake to cool fully before adding frosting to maintain its shape and flavor integrity.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balance to the richness of the cake.
2. Chocolate Mousse: Light and airy, this dessert pairs perfectly with the dense sheet cake without overwhelming it.
3. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy and crunchy contrast.
4. Nutty Granola Bars: These offer a chewy texture that complements the soft cake well, perfect as a snack option.
5. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda to provide savory contrast against the sweet flavors of the cake.
6. Biscuits or Scones: Lightly sweetened scones can be enjoyed alongside slices of cake, adding variety to your dessert spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• When baking a cake, not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to a dense or dry texture. Use precise measurements for best results.
• Skipping the cooling process is a common mistake. Allow the cake to cool completely before adding pudding and frosting to prevent melting.
• Using cold ingredients can affect the mixing process. Always use room temperature eggs and milk for a smoother batter.
• Ignoring oven temperature can result in uneven baking. Ensure your oven is preheated correctly for consistent results.
• Rushing the pudding preparation can cause lumps. Take your time whisking until smooth and allow it to set properly before spreading.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the secret to moist chocolate cake?

Keeping ingredients at room temperature and using hot coffee improves moisture levels in your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy this fun dessert without gluten.

How can I customize my Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting?

Add your favorite nuts or fruits between layers or use different flavored pudding mixes for variety!

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

The total time is approximately 1.5 hours, including baking, cooling, and assembling the cake.

Can I add toppings other than Oreos?

Absolutely! Consider using crushed nuts, sprinkles, or fresh fruit as alternative toppings.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it easily based on your taste preferences. Whether for birthdays, celebrations, or just because—this recipe will impress every time! Try it out and enjoy every bite!