Texas Sheet Cake Lighter Version

Indulge in the rich, chocolatey goodness of a classic Texas Sheet Cake with a guilt-free twist! This lighter version swaps traditional ingredients for healthier alternatives like unsweetened applesauce and low-fat buttermilk, cutting back on calories without sacrificing flavor. The tender, moist cake is infused with a hint of brewed coffee for depth, while the velvety cocoa frosting—made with just a touch of butter and powdered sugar—adds the perfect finishing touch. Prep time is a breeze at just 15 minutes, making this 9x13-inch cake an excellent choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Optional chopped pecans provide a delightfully nutty crunch, and the recipe yields 12 servings of pure chocolatey bliss. Perfect for those seeking a lighter dessert option, this Texas Sheet Cake proves you can enjoy classic comfort food in a healthier way!

Nutriscore Rating: 57/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups All-purpose flour
• 1 cup Granulated sugar
• 0.25 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon Baking soda
• 0.25 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 cup Unsweetened applesauce
• 0.5 cup Low-fat buttermilk
• 2 pieces Large eggs
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 0.5 cup Brewed coffee (or water)
• 1.5 cups Powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons Butter
• 2 tablespoons Unsweetened cocoa powder (for frosting)
• 3 tablespoons Low-fat milk
• 0.25 cup Chopped pecans (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking pan and set it aside.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until well blended.

Step 3

In another bowl, whisk together the applesauce, buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, and brewed coffee. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined (do not overmix).

Step 4

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 5

While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons cocoa powder and low-fat milk, and cook for 1-2 minutes until smooth.

Step 6

Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Stir in the chopped pecans if using.

Step 7

Once the cake is out of the oven, let it cool for 5-10 minutes. Pour the frosting over the warm cake and spread it evenly across the surface.

Step 8

Allow the frosting to set before serving. Slice into 12 equal portions and enjoy your lighter Texas Sheet Cake!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1224.8 grams (1224.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3080

Total Fat 78.90g	101%
Saturated Fat 31.50g	158%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.10g
Cholesterol 479mg	160%
Sodium 2372mg	103%
Total Carbohydrate 591.40g	215%
Dietary Fiber 36.70g	131%
Total Sugars 399.00g
Protein 54.70g	109%

Vitamin D 169IU	846%
Calcium 406mg	31%
Iron 23mg	126%
Potassium 1936mg	41%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 21.6%

Protein: 6.6%

Carbs: 71.8%