Super Bowl Dessert Chocolate Sheet Cake

Name: Super Bowl Dessert Chocolate Sheet Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Soft Ideas

I love making this Super Bowl Dessert Chocolate Sheet Cake each year. It has become a favorite amongst my friends and family, bringing a rich, moist chocolate flavor that everyone craves. The burst of fluffy frosting paired with a moist, decadent cake is unbeatable! Preparing it is easy, and it fits perfectly on a sheet pan, ensuring that there's enough to feed a crowd. Plus, the festive decorations make it a standout dessert. Trust me, once you make this cake, it will become a go-to for any gathering!

Created by

Kendra Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:09:34.860Z

When I first made this cake, I was amazed by how easy it was to throw together. I remember deliciously licking the spoon after mixing the batter and daydreaming about how great it would taste warm out of the oven. The key here is to let the cake cool thoroughly before frosting; this ensures the frosting doesn’t melt all over!

One thing I love is how versatile this recipe is. You can add different toppings like sprinkles, chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of caramel for an extra touch. I often experiment with flavors to match the season, but the classic chocolate is, of course, always a winner.

Why You'll Love This Cake
Rich chocolate flavor that satisfies any chocolate lover
Fluffy frosting that perfectly complements the moist cake
Easy to make and decorate for any occasion

Key Techniques for a Perfect Cake

The texture of this Super Bowl Dessert Chocolate Sheet Cake relies heavily on the proper mixing method. When you mix the dry ingredients, ensure they are well-sifted to eliminate lumps and encourage an even rise. Sifting will also help aerate the flour and cocoa, giving the cake a lighter texture. When adding the boiling water to the batter, do so gradually while mixing; this step not only ensures a smoother consistency but also helps to bloom the cocoa powder, enhancing the chocolate flavor significantly.

Another important technique is to monitor your baking time closely. Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking the cake at the 20-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center, and if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, negating the moistness that this recipe is designed to achieve. A well-baked cake should also have a slight spring when touched lightly on the surface.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role. For instance, the use of whole milk instead of low-fat contributes to the cake's richness and moisture. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute with almond milk or coconut milk, but ensure they're unsweetened to maintain the cake's flavor profile. Likewise, the vegetable oil not only helps keep the cake moist but also contributes to a denser crumb. If you prefer, melted coconut oil can be a great substitute that adds a hint of tropical flavor.

The frosting’s velvety texture comes from the balance of butter and powdered sugar. If you want a lighter frosting, you can opt for cream cheese or mascarpone cheese as a base. They add a tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the chocolate. Just remember to adjust the powdered sugar to achieve the desired sweetness and consistency, as these ingredients can alter how the frosting sets.

Serving and Storage Tips

This cake is perfect for serving a crowd, but you can easily store leftovers. Once frosted, cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it will last up to a week. To serve, bring the cake to room temperature; this will enhance the flavors beautifully and restore any slight firmness from refrigeration.

For festive occasions, feel free to get creative with the toppings! Sprinkles are a fun way to enhance its appeal, especially for a Super Bowl party. Alternatively, fresh berries or crushed chocolate bars can provide added texture and make for an eye-catching presentation. If you’ve got leftover frosting, consider using it as a dip for fruits or cookies, maximizing enjoyment from this delicious dessert.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large sheet pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Add Wet Ingredients

Add in the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Incorporate Boiling Water

Slowly mix in the boiling water until the batter is smooth.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan and bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Prepare Frosting

While the cake cools, beat the butter in a mixing bowl. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder until well blended, then add milk and vanilla to achieve spreadable consistency.

Frost and Enjoy

Once the cake is completely cool, frost it generously with the chocolate frosting and add any desired toppings.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding coffee to enhance the chocolate. Just substitute some of the boiling water with brewed coffee for a richer taste!

Baking Variations

While this recipe shines with traditional chocolate, consider experimenting with flavors to create a unique twist. For a mocha version, you could substitute a portion of the boiling water with freshly brewed coffee, enhancing the chocolate richness even further. Alternatively, for a mint chocolate cake, a few drops of mint extract can be mixed into the frosting for a refreshing kick.

You can also personalize the cake with different frostings. A simple vanilla buttercream or a salted caramel frosting would complement the chocolate cake nicely. When opting for different frostings, remember to adjust the sweetness based on your preferences and the flavor profiles you want to highlight.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cake rises unevenly, it might be due to improper mixing or ingredient temperatures. All ingredients should ideally be at room temperature before mixing to ensure proper emulsification. Additionally, make sure your baking pan is level in the oven to avoid lopsidedness during cooking.

For those who find their frosting not setting properly, it may be too warm from the softened butter or could have too much liquid added. If this happens, place the frosting in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to allow it to firm up, making it easier to spread over your cake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different size pan?

Yes, this recipe can be adapted for 9x13 inch pans or for cupcakes. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.

→ How can I store leftover cake?

You can store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Just wrap it well in plastic wrap before freezing.

→ What if I don’t have unsweetened cocoa powder?

You can substitute it with sweetened cocoa powder, but reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe to balance the sweetness.