Grandma Nita's Sheath Cake

Delightfully rich and decadently moist, Grandma Nita's Sheath Cake is the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert steeped in nostalgia. This classic Southern sheet cake recipe combines the perfect balance of cocoa-infused cake batter with a velvety chocolate frosting that seeps into every layer for unparalleled flavor. With a touch of buttermilk for tang and an optional sprinkle of chopped pecans for crunch, this easy-to-make treat bakes in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or any time your sweet tooth beckons. Serve this old-fashioned chocolate sheath cake warm or at room temperature, and experience the timeless comfort of a recipe passed down through generations. Whether paired with a tall glass of milk or a steaming cup of coffee, this is one dessert you’ll crave again and again.

Nutriscore Rating: 45/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup water
• 4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 pieces large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 6 tablespoons milk
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (for frosting)
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (for frosting)
• 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Directions

Step 1

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

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and sugar. Set aside.

Step 3

In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 1 cup of water and 4 tablespoons of cocoa powder. Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove from heat.

Step 4

Pour the hot cocoa mixture into the bowl with the flour and sugar. Stir until well combined.

Step 5

In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, baking soda, and vanilla extract. Add this mixture to the main batter and stir until smooth.

Step 6

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.

Step 7

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8

While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting. In a medium saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder and 6 tablespoons of milk. Stir until combined, then bring just to a boil. Remove from heat.

Step 9

Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and glossy. Stir in the chopped pecans, if using.

Step 10

When the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Pour the warm frosting over the hot cake, spreading it evenly.

Step 11

Allow the cake and frosting to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Step 12

Enjoy Grandma Nita's Sheath Cake with a tall glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2154.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	6931.9

Total Fat 273.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 119.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.5g
Cholesterol 840.8mg	0%
Sodium 1738.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 1123.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 35.3g	0%
Total Sugars 891.2g
Protein 69.9g	0%

Vitamin D 287.9IU	0%
Calcium 674.9mg	0%
Iron 22.1mg	0%
Potassium 2058.0mg	0%

*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: 34.0%

Protein: 3.9%

Carbs: 62.1%