Description
This technically-optimized sheet cake delivers a remarkably tender crumb by blooming natural cocoa in a boiling butter base. Topped with a warm, fudgy pecan icing that permeates the top layer, it is a reliable and sophisticated dessert designed for consistent results.
Ingredients
- 250g all-purpose flour
- 400g granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 227g unsalted butter (for cake)
- 4 tablespoons natural cocoa powder (for cake)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 120ml buttermilk
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cake)
- 170g unsalted butter (for icing)
- 4 tablespoons natural cocoa powder (for icing)
- 6 tablespoons milk
- 450g powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing)
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Whisk the flour, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl for 60 seconds to ensure even distribution and remove clumps.
- In a medium saucepan, melt 227g butter over medium heat, whisk in 4 tablespoons of cocoa, and add the boiling water.
- Bring the mixture to a rolling boil for exactly 30 seconds to bloom the cocoa, then remove from heat.
- Pour the hot chocolate mixture over the dry ingredients and stir lightly to combine and cool the base.
- Whisk the buttermilk, beaten eggs, baking soda, and 1 teaspoon vanilla together in a separate container, then stir into the chocolate batter until uniform.
- Pour the batter into a greased 18-by-13-inch sheet pan and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20 minutes until the center springs back.
- While the cake bakes, melt the icing butter in a saucepan, whisk in the remaining cocoa and milk, and bring to a simmer.
- Remove from heat, whisk in the powdered sugar and remaining vanilla until glossy, fold in the pecans, and pour over the cake immediately after it leaves the oven.
Notes
To ensure the best emulsion, allow your eggs and buttermilk to reach room temperature before mixing. Using an aluminum sheet pan rather than glass will help prevent over-browning of the bottom and ensure an even bake across the large surface area.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American