Description
This soulful elevation of the classic Southern treat transforms a childhood favorite into a sophisticated, nutty masterpiece. By browning the butter until it reaches liquid gold status, we infuse the moist, delicate crumb with complex, caramelized undertones. Topped with a silky, velvet-smooth frosting, this single-layer sheet cake is the perfect balance of rustic charm and gourmet refinement. It is an unpretentious, crowd-pleasing dessert that feels like a warm embrace, making it an essential centerpiece for gatherings where comfort and connection are prioritized.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
4 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 cup water
1/2 cup sour cream
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons softened butter (for frosting)
4 tablespoons cocoa powder (for frosting)
6 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
3 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 15×10 inch jelly-roll pan.
Place the 1 cup of butter in a saucepan over medium heat, cooking until it foams and turns golden brown with a nutty aroma; remove immediately to prevent burning.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
Combine the browned butter, 1 cup water, and 4 tablespoons cocoa in a saucepan; bring to a boil and stir into the flour mixture.
Mix in the sour cream, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Prepare the frosting by melting the 6 tablespoons butter, 4 tablespoons cocoa, and milk in a saucepan; whisk in the powdered sugar until smooth.
Pour the frosting over the warm cake immediately after it leaves the oven.
Notes
Store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain moisture. The brown butter can be prepared a day in advance, but keep it at room temperature to ensure it remains liquid for mixing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg