This Tex-Mex Sheet Cake is a delightful twist on a classic cake recipe. With a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors, this cake will surely be a hit at your next gathering. It's easy to make and requires only pantry staples, making it a convenient option for any occasion. The combination of chocolate, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper creates a unique and irresistible flavor profile. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting and garnished with crushed tortilla chips, this cake is a true Tex-Mex treat!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips, for garnish
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
- In a medium saucepan, combine butter, water, and cocoa powder. Heat over medium heat until the butter is melted, stirring occasionally.
- Pour the melted butter mixture into the dry ingredients and mix well.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Add this mixture to the batter and stir until fully combined.
- Pour the batter into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the baking dish on a wire rack.
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting by combining 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, 4 cups of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Beat until smooth and creamy.
- Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle the crushed tortilla chips on top of the frosting for garnish.
- Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy this delicious Tex-Mex Sheet Cake!
Interesting Facts
Tex-Mex cuisine is a fusion of Mexican and American flavors, incorporating ingredients such as tortillas, chili peppers, and cheese.
The addition of cayenne pepper in this cake adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor without being overly spicy.
The crushed tortilla chip garnish provides a delightful crunchy texture to contrast with the softness of the cake and frosting.