Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting is a delightful dessert that brings joy to any occasion. This moist and rich cake, combined with creamy chocolate pudding and topped with luscious frosting, creates a heavenly treat. Perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or just a sweet craving, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: Indulge in the rich chocolate taste that satisfies every sweet tooth.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this stunning dessert.
• Versatile Occasion Fit: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual weekend treat, this cake fits right in.
• Fun Toppings: The crushed Oreo crumbs and gummy candies add playful textures and flavors.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance and serve chilled for an easy stress-free dessert.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth, gather the necessary tools and equipment before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Ensures consistent mixing for a perfectly blended batter.
• Baking pan: The right size guarantees even baking for your chocolate sheet cake.
• Whisk: Ideal for achieving a smooth consistency when mixing liquids like pudding and frosting.

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 your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13 baking pan with baking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cake

1. In a stand mixer on low speed, combine the sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients using low speed until just combined.
4. Carefully add hot coffee by hand-stirring to avoid splashes.
5. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
6. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let the cake cool completely before proceeding.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Pudding

1. In a bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and milk until smooth.
2. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until thickened.
3. Spread the pudding evenly over the cooled cake.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Frosting

1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over low heat. Whisk in cocoa powder until well blended; then remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
2. Pour this cooled chocolate mixture into your stand mixer bowl.
3. On medium speed, gradually add powdered sugar alternately with milk until fully combined and smooth.
4. Add vanilla extract last; if too thick, add more milk as needed.
5. Spread the frosting over the pudding layer on the cake.

Step 5: Assemble Your Cake

Sprinkle crushed Oreo cookies over the top of the frosting for added crunch. Decorate with pectin-based gummy candies for a fun touch that everyone will love! 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 be a delightful experience. Whether for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, presentation and pairing can enhance the enjoyment of this delicious dessert.

Family Style

• Slice and serve directly from the pan. This approach is casual and allows everyone to help themselves.
• Add a scoop of ice cream. Vanilla or mint chocolate chip ice cream pairs wonderfully with the rich chocolate flavor.

Individual Plates

• Cut into squares and serve on dessert plates. For a more elegant touch, dust each square with powdered sugar before serving.
• Drizzle chocolate syrup on the plate. This adds visual appeal and extra sweetness.

Toppings Bar

• Set up a toppings station. Include crushed Oreo crumbs, pectin-based gummy candies, or sprinkles for guests to customize their slices.
• Offer whipped cream. A dollop of whipped cream can add a light contrast to the cake’s richness.

How to Perfect Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

Perfecting your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting comes down to attention to detail. Here are some tips for achieving the best results:

• Use fresh ingredients. Ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh for optimal rise.
• Measure accurately. Use proper measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients to maintain balance in the cake texture.
• Cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting the frosting and helps maintain its structure.
• Experiment with flavors. Try adding different extracts like almond or hazelnut for a unique twist on the frosting.
• Adjust thickness of frosting carefully. If your frosting is too thick, gradually add milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

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

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream – The creamy texture complements the dense chocolate nicely.
3. Coffee or Espresso – A warm drink balances sweetness while enhancing chocolate flavors.
4. Whipped Cream – Light and fluffy, it’s perfect for topping slices of cake.
5. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries – These treats echo the cake’s flavors while adding an elegant touch.
6. Nutty Granola Parfait – Layers of granola, yogurt, and fruit offer an interesting textural contrast alongside the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking. If the oven is not hot enough, the cake may not rise properly.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing the cake to cool completely before adding pudding is essential. If you skip this step, the pudding may melt and create a mess.
• Not Whisking Properly: When mixing the pudding, ensure it is smooth and thickened. Under-whisking can lead to lumps that won’t set correctly.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mix your batter just until combined. Overmixing can result in a dense cake rather than a light and fluffy one.
• Neglecting to Measure Ingredients Accurately: Ensure all ingredients are measured accurately. Baking is a science, so even small discrepancies can affect your final product.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 30-60 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat with a lid for 5-10 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting.

Can I use different types of milk?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.

How do I store leftovers of Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I customize the frosting?

Absolutely! You can add different flavors like mint or orange zest to the frosting for a unique twist.

What can I use instead of Oreo cookies?

You can use crushed graham crackers or any other favorite cookies as a topping alternative.

Is this cake suitable for special occasions?

Yes, this versatile cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a delightful dessert at home!

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding various toppings or adjusting flavors in the frosting. Don’t hesitate to try it out and make it your own!