Light Chocolate Sheet Cake Recipe

Indulge in this unbelievably moist and light chocolate sheet cake! Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or a simple weeknight treat, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make. The rich chocolate flavor is balanced beautifully by a light and fluffy texture, topped with a luscious, homemade chocolate icing. Get ready for rave reviews!

Prep Time 20 mins

Cook Time 50 mins

Calories 601.6 kcal

Protein 15g

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The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Light Chocolate Sheet Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ teaspoon salt
¾ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¾ cup water
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
4 tablespoons (2 ounces) unsalted butter
Low Fat Buttermilk
2 large eggs
Vanilla Extract
½ cup nonfat milk
2 cups powdered sugar
½ cup chopped nuts (optional)

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How to Make Light Chocolate Sheet Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10x15 inch jelly roll pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, ¾ teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon.
In a medium saucepan, combine ¾ cup water, ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, and 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the butter is melted and the cocoa is dissolved.
Pour the hot cocoa mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
Add 1 cup buttermilk, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until well blended.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the cake is baking, prepare the icing: In a small saucepan, combine ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 4 tablespoons (2 ounces) unsalted butter, and ½ cup nonfat milk.
Bring the icing mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly.
Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and ½ cup chopped nuts (optional).
Once the cake is baked, let it cool slightly before spreading the icing evenly over the top.
Let the icing set before cutting and serving. Enjoy!