How to Make Denver Chocolate Sheet Cake
Preheat the oven
Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch or 10x15-inch baking pan.Mix the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.Prepare the hot mixture
In a saucepan, melt butter with water and cocoa powder. Bring just to a boil, then pour the hot mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until combined.Add wet ingredients
Beat in eggs, sour cream, and vanilla until smooth. The batter will be slightly thin—that’s normal.Bake the cake
Pour into prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.Make the frosting
While the cake bakes, prepare the frosting. In a saucepan, melt butter, cocoa powder, and milk together. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.Frost while warm
Pour the frosting over the warm cake and spread evenly. Sprinkle with nuts if desired. The frosting sets into a glossy, fudge-like layer.
Tips for the Best Sheet Cake
Use sour cream or buttermilk for extra moisture and tang.
Pour the frosting on while the cake is still warm—this helps it seep into the cake for extra richness.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the batter for a flavor boost.
Serving Ideas
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comfort dessert.
Cut into bite-sized squares for parties and potlucks.
Pair with coffee or milk for a classic pairing.
Final Thoughts
The Denver Chocolate Sheet Cake is proof that you don’t need fancy layers or elaborate decorations to create a dessert everyone loves. With its rich chocolate flavor, tender crumb, and silky frosting, this cake has earned its place as a classic. It’s easy, it’s indulgent, and it’s the kind of recipe that gets passed down from generation to generation.
Bake it once, and you’ll see why it’s a dessert that stands the test of time.
