Recipe for Texas Sheet Cake with Pecan Topping

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Pecan Topping:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pan: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large rimmed baking sheet (approximately 18×13 inches).
2. Make the Cake Batter: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup butter and water and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in the flour, sugar, and 1/4 cup cocoa. Add sour cream, baking soda, eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla; mix until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet.
3. Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Prepare the Pecan Topping: While the cake bakes, melt 1/2 cup butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in milk and 1/4 cup cocoa powder, and bring to a boil. Remove from heat; stir in powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla until smooth. Fold in chopped pecans.
5. Finish the Cake: Pour the warm pecan topping over the hot cake as soon as it comes out of the oven. Spread evenly.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares and serving.

Nutritional Analysis and Health Benefits:

• Calories: Each serving is high in calories, primarily from fats and sugars, making it a rich treat.
• Fats: Contains a significant amount of fat from butter and pecans, which contribute to its moist texture.
• Carbohydrates: High in carbohydrates, largely from sugars and flour, providing quick energy.
• Proteins and Fibers: Moderate protein from eggs and pecans, and fiber from pecans, which can aid in digestion.

Health Impact:

• Heart Health: Pecans are rich in monounsaturated fats which are good for heart health when consumed in moderation.
• Antioxidant Properties: Pecans are also a good source of antioxidants, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Energy Levels: The high sugar content provides an immediate energy boost, suitable for an occasional indulgence.
• Bone Health: Pecans offer manganese, which is vital for bone health and metabolism.

This Texas Sheet Cake with Pecan Topping is a decadent dessert that combines rich chocolate flavor with the crunch and nutritional benefits of pecans. While it’s perfect for special occasions and gatherings, it should be enjoyed in moderation due to its high calorie and sugar content, especially for those monitoring their dietary intake for health reasons.