Chocolate Ganache Sheet Cake

Name: Chocolate Ganache Sheet Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups granulated sugar; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 12 ounces dark chocolate, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Highlighted under: Classic Cakes & Desserts

I’ve always loved a good chocolate cake, and making this Chocolate Ganache Sheet Cake was a delightful experience. The rich flavors and velvety texture amazed me, surpassing all my expectations. Each layer is decadent, ultimately rewarding the effort I put into the baking and cooling process. The icing on the cake, quite literally, is the glossy ganache that adds a professional touch. If you’re a chocolate lover like me, I can guarantee this cake will be a hit at any gathering.

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2026-02-16T01:17:36.833Z

When I decided to bake a Chocolate Ganache Sheet Cake, I was looking to impress friends at a dinner party, and wow, did it deliver! The key to its success is allowing the ganache to cool and thicken before pouring it over the cake - this ensures a smooth, glossy finish that looks as good as it tastes.

During the process, I experimented with different chocolate types and found that a mix of dark and semi-sweet chocolate created the perfect balance of sweetness. The result was a moist cake topped with an indulgent layer of ganache that everyone loved.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate flavor that satisfies every craving
Easy to make and perfect for any occasion
Transformative glossy ganache that impresses

Understanding the Chocolate Ganache

The ganache is the star of this recipe, elevating the cake to another level. It is crucial to use high-quality dark chocolate, as it directly influences the taste of your ganache. When heating the cream, monitor it closely to prevent boiling over, as this can alter the texture. After removing from heat, allow the chocolate to sit in the hot cream for a few minutes to melt properly—a step that ensures a smooth and glossy finish.

Whisking the ganache thoroughly is vital for achieving that velvety texture. If your ganache isn’t glossy, it might be due to not whisking enough or using chocolate that is not fresh. Allow it to cool slightly before pouring over the cake; this control over temperature ensures it flows over the cake without dripping too fast, creating an appealing look.

Perfecting Your Cake Baking Technique

To achieve a moist and fluffy cake, it’s essential not to overmix your batter after adding the boiling water. This step activates the cocoa powder and creates a well-combined batter while keeping air pockets for lift. For best results, sift the dry ingredients to avoid clumps, which can lead to uneven baking. If you have an extra layer of flavor on hand, consider substituting part of the boiling water with freshly brewed espresso for a rich undertone.

Make sure your oven is preheated to exactly 350°F (175°C) for even baking. It's helpful to rotate your cake pan halfway through the baking time; this ensures that every part of the cake bakes uniformly. The cake is done when the edges look golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful cake:

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Ganache

12 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for a perfect Chocolate Ganache Sheet Cake:

Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla, then mix until smooth. Gradually stir in the boiling water until the batter is well combined.

Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a sheet cake pan and pour in the batter. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool completely in the pan.

Make the Ganache

In a saucepan, heat heavy cream until just boiling. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate, allowing it to sit for a few minutes. Whisk until smooth and add cocoa powder and sugar, whisking until combined.

Ice the Cake

Once the cake is cool, pour the ganache over the top. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, letting it drip down the sides for a beautiful finish. Allow the ganache to set before slicing.

Enjoy your creation and share it with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sprinkling sea salt on top of the ganache before it sets. It really enhances the chocolate experience!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Once the cake is baked and cooled, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider slicing the cake into portions and freezing them in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy a piece, allow it to thaw at room temperature, and then top with freshly made ganache for that just-baked taste.

The ganache can also be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just make sure to reheat it gently in a microwave or over a double boiler until it returns to a pourable consistency. This make-ahead option is perfect for busy days when you need to save time.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Chocolate Ganache Sheet Cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries to cut through the richness. For a twist, consider topping slices with a sprinkle of sea salt or a dusting of powdered sugar for an engaging presentation. You can also personalize the cake by adding a layer of whipped cream on top of the ganache for extra texture.

For those who enjoy experimenting, think about swirling in ingredients like peppermint extract or orange zest to the ganache or cake batter for a flavor twist. You can also transform this into a layered cake by baking multiple sheet cakes and stacking them with ganache between layers for a stunning centerpiece.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate for the ganache?

Yes, but it will result in a sweeter ganache. Dark chocolate adds depth.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! Wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream pairs beautifully.