Texas Sheet Cake Cookies
Texas Sheet Cake Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Texas sheet cake, combining the rich chocolate flavor we all know and love into a convenient cookie format. Imagine biting into a soft, chocolatey cookie topped with a sweet glaze – it’s a dessert that will satisfy your cravings and impress your friends. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to festive holiday parties.
These cookies are easy to make and are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. The use of a chocolate cake mix simplifies the process, allowing you to enjoy homemade cookies without the fuss of measuring out all the ingredients individually. Plus, the addition of pecans adds a wonderful crunch that complements the soft, chewy texture of the cookies. Let’s dive into why these cookies work so well and how you can make them yourself!
Why It Works Every Time
The beauty of Texas Sheet Cake Cookies lies in their simplicity and the use of a cake mix, which provides a consistent base for the cookie dough. The combination of vegetable oil and eggs ensures a moist and chewy texture, while the baking powder gives them the perfect lift. By incorporating unsweetened cocoa powder and powdered sugar, you achieve a delightful balance of flavors without overwhelming sweetness. The optional chopped pecans bring an extra layer of texture and flavor, making these cookies irresistible.
What to Buy
To make Texas Sheet Cake Cookies, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. Here’s what to gather:
- 1 Box Chocolate Cake Mix – Preferably Milk Chocolate for a rich flavor.
- 1/3 Cup Vegetable Oil – This helps keep the cookies moist.
- 2 Large Eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients together.
- 1 Teaspoon Baking Powder – For that perfect rise.
- 1 Cup Unsalted Butter – Softened, to add richness.
- 1/4 Cup Milk – To achieve the right consistency.
- 3 Tablespoons Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – For an extra chocolate kick.
- 1 Cup Powdered Sugar – For the sweet glaze.
- 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract – To enhance the flavors.
- 1 Dash Salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
- 1/2 Cup Chopped Pecans – Optional, but highly recommended for crunch.
What You’ll Need (Gear)
Before you start baking, make sure you have the following kitchen gear:
- Mixing Bowls – For combining ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – To ensure accuracy in your measurements.
- Cookie Scoop or Spoon – For portioning the cookie dough evenly.
- Baking Sheet – Make sure it’s lined with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Cooling Rack – To cool the cookies after baking.
From Start to Finish: Texas Sheet Cake Cookies
Follow these simple steps to create your own Texas Sheet Cake Cookies:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, vegetable oil, and sugar. Beat until creamy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the chocolate cake mix, baking powder, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 4: Add Milk and Pecans
Pour in the milk and mix until the dough is smooth. If you’re using pecans, fold them in at this stage.
Step 5: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, portion out the dough onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops look slightly cracked. Be careful not to overbake!
Step 7: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and enough milk to achieve a drizzling consistency. Stir until smooth and remove from heat.
Step 9: Drizzle and Serve
Once the cookies are completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over each cookie. Let it set for a few minutes before serving.
Spring to Winter: Ideas
You can enjoy Texas Sheet Cake Cookies all year round! Here are some ideas to make them even more versatile:
- In the spring, add colorful sprinkles to the glaze for a festive touch.
- During summer, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
- In the fall, incorporate pumpkin spice into the dough for a seasonal twist.
- For winter gatherings, try adding a hint of peppermint extract to the glaze for a holiday flavor.
Don’t Do This
To ensure your Texas Sheet Cake Cookies turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:
- Don’t skip the baking powder; it’s essential for the right texture.
- Avoid overmixing the dough once you add the dry ingredients, as this can lead to tough cookies.
- Don’t forget to let the cookies cool before adding the glaze; otherwise, it may melt off.
- Resist the urge to overcrowd the baking sheet; give each cookie enough space to spread.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your Texas Sheet Cake Cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- If you want to keep them longer, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Quick Questions
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! While milk chocolate gives a rich flavor, you can experiment with other cake mixes like vanilla or red velvet for different taste profiles.
What can I substitute for pecans?
If you’re not a fan of pecans or have a nut allergy, you can omit them entirely or replace them with chocolate chips or dried fruit for added texture.
How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Texas Sheet Cake Cookies, use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before scooping and baking.
If you love Texas Sheet Cake Cookies, you might also enjoy these delightful recipes:
Ready, Set, Cook
Now that you have all the information and tips to create mouthwatering Texas Sheet Cake Cookies, it’s time to get baking! Gather your ingredients, turn on your oven, and enjoy the process of making these delightful treats. Whether for a special occasion or just because, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Happy baking!
Texas Sheet Cake Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter, vegetable oil, and sugar. Beat until creamy. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together chocolate cake mix, baking powder, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour in the milk and mix until the dough is smooth. If using pecans, fold them in at this stage.
- Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, portion out the dough onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops look slightly cracked. Be careful not to overbake!
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and enough milk to achieve a drizzling consistency. Stir until smooth and remove from heat.
- Once the cookies are completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over each cookie. Let it set for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freeze cookies in a single layer for up to 3 months, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
- To thaw, leave at room temperature for a few hours or warm in the microwave for a few seconds.
