Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting is a delightful dessert that brings together the rich flavors of chocolate cake, creamy pudding, and luscious frosting. This cake is perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or just as an indulgent treat at home. Its unique combination of textures and flavors will leave everyone wanting more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The chocolate sheet cake pairs perfectly with the creamy pudding and rich frosting, creating a dessert that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy family dinner, this cake fits right in on any dessert table.
• Fun Presentation: Topping the cake with crushed Oreo cookies and gummy candies adds a playful touch that both kids and adults will enjoy.
• Make-Ahead Option: This cake stays delicious for days, making it ideal for preparing in advance.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• 9×13 baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes mixing batters quick and easy, ensuring a smooth consistency.
• 9×13 baking pan: The perfect size for baking your sheet cake evenly without hassle.
• Whisk: An essential tool for achieving smooth mixtures when combining liquids and dry ingredients.

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. Vegetable oil

12. Vanilla extract

13. Add the wet ingredients to the mixer on low speed until just combined.

14. Carefully add hot coffee by hand-stirring to avoid splashes.

15. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan.

16. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

17. Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Pudding

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
2. Chocolate pudding mix

3. Milk until smooth.

4. Let sit for 5 minutes until thickened.

5. Spread the pudding evenly over the cooled cake.

6. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Frosting

1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Whisk in cocoa powder until fully combined and then remove from heat to cool slightly.

3. Pour cooled chocolate mixture into your stand mixer.

4. On medium speed, gradually add powdered sugar and milk alternating between them 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 on top of the cake.

Step 5: Assemble Your Cake

Sprinkle crushed Oreo crumbs over the frosting layer generously. 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 the experience for your guests. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dessert.

Elegant Plating

• Use a white plate to create contrast against the dark cake. Add a sprig of mint on top for color.

Individual Portions

• Cut the cake into squares and place each piece in cupcake liners. This makes for easy serving at parties or gatherings.

With Fresh Fruits

• Serve with a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries. The tartness complements the sweetness of the chocolate.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a delightful temperature contrast.

Drizzle Some Sauce

• Drizzle chocolate sauce or caramel over the cake before serving. It adds extra flavor and visual appeal.

How to Perfect Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

To ensure your Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips:

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons for precision to ensure the right texture and flavor.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let eggs and milk sit out before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter.

• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix until just combined to avoid a dense cake. Overmixing can lead to tougher texture.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures, as ovens can vary.

• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the cake to cool down completely before adding the pudding and frosting layers for better adhesion.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

Pair your decadent Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting with these delightful side dishes that will complement its rich flavors.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the cake.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream
   Smooth vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing that enhances the chocolate experience.

3. Whipped Coconut Cream
   Light and airy, whipped coconut cream adds a tropical twist that pairs well with chocolate.

4. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
   These elegant treats make for an indulgent addition, perfect for chocolate lovers.

5. Chocolate Chip Cookies
   An extra touch of chocolate never hurts! Serve alongside for added texture and flavor diversity.

6. Nutty Granola Bars
   The crunch from granola bars offers a nice contrast to the soft cake, making it an interesting combo.

7. Espresso or Coffee
   A warm cup of espresso or coffee brings out the flavors in both chocolate and pudding layers beautifully.

8. Caramel Popcorn
   Sweet and salty caramel popcorn can add a fun crunch element when served next to this rich dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and making a Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting is no exception. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.

• Not cooling the cake completely: If you frost the cake while it’s still warm, the frosting may melt. Ensure your cake is completely cooled before adding layers.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect how the batter mixes. Allow eggs and milk to reach room temperature before mixing.

• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined to keep it light and fluffy.

• Ignoring baking time: Keep an eye on the clock, but also perform a toothpick test to check doneness. Ovens vary, so your cake might bake faster or slower than expected.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a covered skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

This recipe combines rich chocolate flavor, creamy pudding, and decadent frosting, making it perfect for any occasion.

Can I customize the frosting?

Absolutely! You can add flavors like peppermint or almond extract to switch things up.

How should I store leftover cake?

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

Can I use other types of pudding mix?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with vanilla or butterscotch pudding if you want a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Sheet Cake with Pudding & Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different toppings or flavors, making it suitable for any celebration. Don’t hesitate—try this recipe today and delight your friends and family!