Super Bowl Desserts Chocolate Sheet Cake

Name: Super Bowl Desserts Chocolate Sheet Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making this Super Bowl Desserts Chocolate Sheet Cake because it perfectly combines rich chocolate with a moist texture that pleases everyone at game day gatherings. It's quick to prepare, and the ingredients are simple yet flavorful, making it a fantastic crowd-pleaser. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or just in it for the food, this cake is a show-stopper that you can whip up in no time. Trust me, your friends and family will be begging for seconds!

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:01:20.118Z

When I first tried making a sheet cake for the Super Bowl, I was amazed at how easy and fun it was! The beauty of this recipe is that the batter comes together in one bowl, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The chocolate is rich, and the cake remains incredibly moist, making each bite a delight. I often add a pinch of espresso powder to intensify that chocolate flavor without adding coffee taste.

Another thing I've learned is not to skip the frosting. A simple chocolate ganache elevates this cake to a whole new level of decadence. It's perfect for tapping into that festive spirit, and honestly, I can’t think of a better excuse to enjoy such a delightful dessert while cheering for my favorite team!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent chocolate flavor that will satisfy any sweet tooth
Easily serves a crowd, perfect for Super Bowl parties
Moist, soft texture that makes it melt in your mouth

      

Choosing the Right Cocoa Powder

When it comes to baking the best chocolate sheet cake, the choice of cocoa powder is crucial. Unsweetened cocoa powder provides depth and richness to the cake's flavor. For an even more intense chocolate experience, opt for Dutch-processed cocoa, which has a smoother and more mellow profile. However, if you choose Dutch cocoa, be mindful to adjust your baking powder slightly, as it reacts differently than natural cocoa. Always sift your cocoa powder with the dry ingredients to ensure a uniform mix.

Additionally, measuring your cocoa accurately is key. A common mistake many bakers make is packing the cocoa into the measuring cup, which can lead to a denser cake. Instead, spoon it into the cup and level it off with a knife for the perfect amount. This attention to detail helps maintain the cake's intended texture, keeping it soft and moist.

Perfecting Ganache Consistency

Making chocolate ganache frosting might seem straightforward, but achieving the perfect consistency is essential for a beautiful finish. The heavy cream should be heated just until it simmers, as boiling it can create a grainy texture in the finished ganache. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit to soften the chocolate before stirring; this step prevents overmixing and helps create that glossy, silky smooth texture you want.

After mixing in the butter, ensure it is fully melted before applying the ganache to the cake. If it's too thick, you can gently reheat it in the microwave in short bursts, stirring after each interval, until it reaches a pourable consistency. If your ganache is too thin, it might need a bit more chopped chocolate to thicken up—gradually stir in more until you reach the desired thickness.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

After your Super Bowl Desserts Chocolate Sheet Cake is frosted and set, it can be conveniently stored. Loosely cover the cake with plastic wrap or foil at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week if you prefer a chilled dessert. Reheating individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds brings back that fresh-from-the-oven softness, making it comforting and delicious.

Serving ideas for this cake are versatile! Consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the rich chocolate flavor. For a festive touch, garnish with sprinkles or fresh berries. If you're looking to switch things up, you can add a layer of crushed nuts or toasted coconut to the ganache for added texture and flavor contrast.

Ingredients

Chocolate Sheet Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

Chocolate Ganache Frosting

1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Cake

Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Slowly stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely in the pan.

Make the Ganache Frosting

Heat the cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Pour it over the chopped chocolate in a bowl and let sit for 5 minutes. Stir until smooth, then mix in the butter until fully melted.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, pour the ganache over the top and spread it evenly. Allow it to set before slicing and serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding colorful sprinkles on top of the ganache to enhance the festive feel for your Super Bowl gathering.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

When baking your chocolate sheet cake, keep an eye on baking times. If the cake doesn't seem set after 25 minutes, it may need an additional 2-5 minutes in the oven. Always use the toothpick test—insert it into the center, and it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out wet, it’s not ready yet!

If your cake turns out too dry, this could be due to overmixing or overbaking. Take care to mix just until combined, especially once the dry ingredients are added, and be sure to check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time to avoid drying out. You can also add a simple syrup of equal parts sugar and water brushed on the cooled cake to rescue a dry batch.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling up this chocolate sheet cake recipe for a larger crowd is straightforward. Simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking sheet or multiple sheets, while ensuring you adjust the baking time accordingly. When using a larger pan, it's best to check for doneness periodically, as cakes can take longer to bake fully. It’s a good idea to rotate the pans halfway through for even cooking if you’re using multiple pans in the oven.

Conversely, if you're making this cake for a smaller gathering, you can halve the ingredients and use a smaller baking dish, such as a 9x13 inch pan. Keep in mind that reducing the recipe may also cut down on baking time, so check for doneness a few minutes sooner than the original recipe. Baking smaller portions can create a thicker performance of your ganache as well, leading to a richer cake experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.

→ How should I store the leftovers?

Store the leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a week.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it just before serving.

→ Is it possible to add nuts or other toppings?

Definitely! Feel free to sprinkle chopped nuts or chocolate chips on top of the ganache for added texture.