Chocolate cakes hold a special place in the hearts of dessert lovers worldwide. Whether it’s a celebratory occasion, a casual afternoon treat, or an indulgence for no reason at all, chocolate cake is the ultimate comfort food. Among all its variations, the Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting stands out for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. This dessert pairs a fluffy, rich chocolate sponge with a luscious cream cheese frosting, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and hard to resist.
This recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned professionals. The sheet cake format makes it ideal for sharing at parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. The cocoa-rich sponge is light yet moist, thanks to the addition of milk and oil, while the frosting adds a tangy creaminess that complements the chocolate beautifully. Its simplicity belies its elegance, and its versatility makes it a dessert you’ll come back to time and again. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this Chocolate Sheet Cake is bound to impress.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Cake (Baking Pan Inner Size: 37×25 cm):
- 10 medium eggs: Provide structure and fluffiness to the sponge.
- 1 pinch of salt: Enhances the flavor of the cake.
- 16 g vanilla sugar (or 1 tsp vanilla extract): Adds a warm, fragrant note.
- 220 g sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a tender texture.
- 100 g vegetable oil (odorless): Keeps the cake moist.
- 100 ml milk (room temperature): Adds moisture and richness to the batter.
- 190 g flour: Provides structure to the cake.
- 5 g baking powder: Helps the cake rise, creating a light and airy texture.
- 35 g cocoa powder: Adds a deep chocolate flavor.
- 60 ml hot water: Enhances the cocoa flavor and makes it easier to incorporate.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 100 ml cold whipping cream (at least 30% fat): Whips up light and fluffy, providing a creamy base.
- 8 g vanilla sugar: Adds flavor to the frosting.
- 20 g powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting without making it overly heavy.
- 150 g cold cream cheese: Adds tanginess and a creamy texture to the frosting.
How to Make Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 37×25 cm baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease and flour it.
- Whip the Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add the pinch of salt, vanilla sugar, and regular sugar. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the mixture on high speed until it’s light, fluffy, and has tripled in volume (approximately 5-7 minutes).
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the vegetable oil and milk to the whipped eggs, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and cocoa powder. Sifting ensures there are no lumps and the dry ingredients are well aerated.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture using a spatula. Be gentle to maintain the airy texture of the batter.
- Activate the Cocoa: In a small bowl, mix the cocoa powder with the hot water until smooth. Gently fold this cocoa paste into the batter until evenly incorporated.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Pour the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Whip the Cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the cold whipping cream, vanilla sugar, and powdered sugar on high speed until soft peaks form.
- Add the Cream Cheese: Add the cold cream cheese to the whipped cream mixture and beat until the frosting is smooth, fluffy, and well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Use an offset spatula for a smooth finish.
- Decorate: Decorate as desired with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set.
Prep Time
- 20 minutes
Cooking Time
- 35 minutes
Total Time
- 55 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 330 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 25 g
Why This Recipe Is Timeless
The Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a dessert that has stood the test of time due to its simplicity and universal appeal. The combination of a light chocolate sponge and tangy cream cheese frosting is a classic that never fails to impress. This recipe is adaptable for all occasions—dress it up with elaborate decorations for a birthday party or keep it simple for a casual family dessert. Its timeless nature lies in its balance of flavors, ease of preparation, and ability to bring people together over a shared love of chocolate.
This cake also highlights the beauty of homemade desserts. Unlike store-bought options, it’s made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, and it’s free of preservatives. The satisfaction of creating a delicious cake from scratch is unmatched, and the results are always worth the effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different frosting?
Yes! While cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with chocolate, you can also use buttercream, whipped ganache, or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar for a lighter option.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cake can be baked a day in advance and stored, covered, at room temperature. The frosting can also be made ahead and refrigerated. Assemble the cake on the day you plan to serve it for the freshest taste.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose baking mix. Ensure that your cocoa powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your milk and eggs are at room temperature to ensure a smooth batter.
- Do Not Overmix: When folding in the dry ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid deflating the batter.
- Chill the Frosting Bowl: Chilling the mixing bowl and beaters helps the whipping cream achieve a stable, fluffy texture.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving.
- Freezing: The unfrosted cake can be wrapped in plastic wrap and frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and frost before serving.
Conclusion
The Chocolate Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is more than just a dessert—it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of classic recipes. Its ease of preparation, versatile flavor profile, and stunning presentation make it a go-to treat for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, hosting friends, or simply indulging in a chocolate craving, this cake is sure to be a hit.
So go ahead, bake this delightful treat, and savor every bite. It’s a timeless classic that will never go out of style!