Texas Bar Cake
A rich, chocolatey sheet cake with a moist crumb, perfect for family gatherings and casual desserts, offering deep cocoa flavor and tender texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring butter, cocoa, and water to a boil and then let it cool.
- Add the cooled mixture to the rest of the ingredients.
- Beat well until smooth.
- Pour the batter into a greased 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa. If you're out of sour cream, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute. To ensure a moist cake, avoid overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients. You can also add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture. This Texas Bar Cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Texas Bar Cake warm or at room temperature, optionally dusted with powdered sugar or topped with whipped cream. It goes well with a side of fresh berries or a scoop of ice cream. For a complete meal, consider serving it after a hearty dish like Delicious Chic-Casserole for a comforting finish to your dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Texas Bar Cake contains roughly 370 calories, with 9g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1134mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the Texas Bar Cake a day in advance. Allow it to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to keep it moist and flavorful. Just remember to store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
What if I don't have a 13 x 9-inch pan?
If you don't have a 13 x 9-inch pan, you can use two 9-inch round cake pans instead. Just be sure to adjust the baking time, as round cakes may require less time. Start checking for doneness at around 25 minutes.
Can I use a gluten-free flour blend?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in this recipe. Make sure to use a blend that contains xanthan gum for the best texture. The baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the cake as it bakes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).