White Texas Sheet Cake Recipe

If you’re searching for a tender, melt-in-your-mouth celebration cake that’s outrageously easy and always a crowd favorite, look no further than this White Texas Sheet Cake. With a moist vanilla crumb, billowy white frosting, and endless ways to dress it up, this cake is my go-to for everything from birthdays to backyard BBQs. It’s simple enough for weeknights but just fancy enough for any special occasion. Trust me, once you try a slice, you’ll understand why this classic deserves a permanent spot in your recipe box!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for White Texas Sheet Cake are wonderfully straightforward, yet each one plays an essential part in the final flavor, texture, and classic look of the cake. Here’s a rundown to help you get organized and confident before you bake.

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and ensures the cake stays soft and light.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create that tender crumb.
• Baking Soda: Gives the cake its lift for a fluffy bite you’ll love.
• Salt: Balances out the sweetness and brings all the flavors together beautifully.
• Water: Makes the cake extra moist and light.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness for both the cake and the frosting — seriously, don’t skimp!
• Sour Cream or Plain Yogurt: Keeps the cake super moist with a pleasant tang.
• Large Eggs: Bind everything together for a cohesive, plush cake.
• Vanilla Extract: The signature flavor — use pure vanilla for best results.
• Milk: Gives the frosting a creamy consistency and sheen.
• Powdered Sugar: Creates a smooth, sweet, fluffy frosting that spreads easily.
• Sprinkles or White Chocolate Curls (optional): For that final bit of fun and flourish — personalize as you like!

How to Make White Texas Sheet Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease a 9×13-inch pan (or use a jelly roll pan for a thinner cake). Dust with flour for extra nonstick power — this ensures your beautiful White Texas Sheet Cake lifts right out, ready to frost!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt. These simple pantry staples form the perfect base for a soft, flavorful cake.

Step 3: Melt Butter with Water

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter with water, melting them together. Bring it just to a gentle boil, then remove from the heat. This step helps dissolve the sugar and creates an extra tender texture.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the warm butter-water mixture directly into the dry ingredients. Stir until well combined — the batter will start to come together and smell heavenly!

Step 5: Add Sour Cream, Eggs, and Vanilla

Now add in the sour cream (or plain yogurt), eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the batter is smooth, making sure there are no pockets of flour left. This is what gives White Texas Sheet Cake its ultra-moist crumb and delicious depth.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Try not to overbake; you want that iconic soft sheet cake texture.

Step 7: Cool and Make the Frosting

Let your cake cool completely in the pan. Meanwhile, in a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with the milk. Remove from the heat and whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth and creamy — just right for spreading.

Step 8: Frost, Decorate, and Set

Spread the dreamy white frosting over the cooled cake, getting all the way to the edges. Sprinkle on your favorite decorations, whether it’s classic rainbow sprinkles or elegant white chocolate curls. Allow the frosting to set so each slice stays picture-perfect.

How to Serve White Texas Sheet Cake

Garnishes

The magic of White Texas Sheet Cake is in how you finish it. A flourish of pastel sprinkles, a scattering of white chocolate shavings, or even a few toasted nuts will give each piece that extra-special sparkle. Let your personality shine through in the toppings!

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with fresh fruit salads, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For celebrations, serve with coffee or fruity tea to let the cake’s vanilla notes shine through.

Creative Ways to Present

For something different, try cutting the cake into bite-sized squares for a dessert platter, layering it with berries in a trifle dish, or even stacking for a sheet cake “wedding” look. However you slice it, White Texas Sheet Cake always steals the show!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover White Texas Sheet Cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. The frosting keeps the cake moist and soft, making it just as delicious on day two. For hot or humid climates, refrigeration is a safe bet.

Freezing

This cake is a dream for make-ahead enthusiasts! Slice, wrap individual pieces or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature for best texture.

Reheating

Prefer your cake slightly warm? Microwave a slice for 10–15 seconds — the frosting softens and the cake tastes fresh-baked. For a crowd, rewarm (covered) in the oven at 300°F for just a few minutes.

FAQs

Can I make White Texas Sheet Cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute your favorite cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or a binder for the best texture.

What’s the difference between Texas sheet cake and regular sheet cake?

Texas sheet cakes (especially the white version) are usually thinner with a softer, more tender crumb and a poured frosting that sets into a shiny, luscious layer. Regular sheet cakes tend to be thicker and topped with traditional buttercream.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely! Simply double all the ingredients and bake in two pans, or use a large sheet pan. Keep a close eye on the bake time, as larger pans may need a few extra minutes.

What flavors can I add to the frosting?

Try a hint of almond extract or swap in lemon or orange zest for a twist. You can also mix in a tablespoon of cream cheese for tang or coconut extract for something tropical.

How do I keep the frosting extra smooth?

Sift your powdered sugar if it’s clumpy and whisk thoroughly as you add it in. Spread the frosting while the cake is completely cool for the dreamiest finish!

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never had the pleasure of baking White Texas Sheet Cake at home, now’s your chance. This timeless recipe delivers big flavor with minimal fuss, and each slice guarantees smiles. Share it with loved ones — and don’t forget to sneak a piece for yourself!