Chocolate Sheet Cake Recipe

Chocolate is everywhere – thank goodness! alt We
have many decadent choices available in the form of truffles and
specialty desserts. Sometimes a simple chocolate sheet cake is all it
takes to satisfy a craving and provide a little comfort. This recipe
doesn’t require any fancy ingredients, is quick to make, and can serve
a crowd.

One of the last times I visited my
maternal grandparents’ house while my grandmother was still living, I
wanted to do something special for them. My grandma was no longer able
to take care of the cooking and although my grandpa was doing his best,
I knew they’d enjoy some special treats. I asked grandma what she
wanted me to make. She indicated that a roast with carrots and potatoes
would be nice and then suddenly she added, "And make that chocolate
sheet cake!" I happily prepared it and continue to use her recipe,
thinking of her with love every time.

Grandma Anna’s Chocolate Sheet Cake Recipe

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup water
2 cups sugar
2 cups flour
*1/4 – 1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 eggs, beaten
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda (dissolved in buttermilk)
1/2 cup buttermilk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a jellyroll or sheet cake pan.
Combine buttermilk and baking soda in a large measuring cup.

2. In a medium saucepan, combine butter, oil, and water. Heat and boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat.

3. In a large bowl, sift sugar, flour, cocoa, and salt. Pour in the warm butter mixture and blend well.

4. Add beaten eggs, soda/buttermilk mixture, and vanilla. Blend well.

5. Pour into buttered pan. Bake at 350 for 20 – 25 minutes, until cake
springs back when touched and inserted toothpick comes out clean.
(Prepare frosting while cake is baking.)

6. Cool on a rack, leaving cake in the pan.

*1/4 cup cocoa for mild chocolate flavor, 1/2 cup for stronger flavor

Chocolate Fudge Frosting

2 cups sugar
1/2 cup plus 2 Tablespoons butter
1/2 cup plus 2 Tablespoons milk
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tsp vanilla extract

1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, butter, milk, and salt. Heat and boil for 1 minute.

2.
Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips and vanilla extract. Use a
whisk to make it smooth and to beat in a little air as the frosting
cools. Set aside until cake is baked.