Glazed Chocolate Sheet Cake – A Chocolate Cake That Feels Like Home

This recipe is incredibly special to me because it’s a comforting reminder of home. It’s one of those recipes that’s been passed from one generation to the next, and I was lucky enough to receive it from my SO’s mom, who has been baking it for as long as anyone can remember.

Her effortless baking, without the help of scales, somehow always yields the perfect cake! It’s one of those cherished recipes that feels deeply nostalgic, like it’s come straight from the heart!

This chocolate sheet cake is rich, dense, and decadently fluffy, with the perfect balance of textures thanks to its glossy glaze and crunchy walnut topping.

And, like so many chocolate desserts with Romanian roots, this one has a hint of rum extract (don’t worry, it’s alcohol-free!). The subtle rum flavor makes it taste like a classic treat from back home, adding a depth that’s so unique.

Of course, if you’re not a fan of rum, feel free to swap it for vanilla extract—it will be just as delicious.

This cake is perfect for gatherings or as a treat to share with friends. Be warned though—it’s hard to stop at just one slice!

What makes this (Romanian) Glazed Rum Chocolate Cake so great?

This cake is a dream come true for chocolate lovers, with its intensely rich, deeply chocolatey flavor that’s soooo satisfying. It boasts an amazing texture balance—a fluffy, tender cake base topped with a silky-smooth chocolate glaze and a sprinkle of crunchy walnuts. There’s also something about the taste that feels wonderfully nostalgic, like the kind of cozy, homemade dessert that brings comfort with every forkful. And of course, the hint of rum adds a unique, aromatic twist, giving the cake a special character that makes it stand out from other chocolate cakes.

Why you’ll love this recipe

• Just the right sweetness: It’s indulgent but not overly sweet.
• Unique rum flavor: It gives the cake a rich, warm depth.
• Incredible texture: Soft, gooey, crunchy—it’s all here.
• Memorable glaze: The rich, glossy glaze really elevates this cake.

Ingredients

Cake

Butter – Adds richness and moisture.

Milk – For a tender, moist texture.

Sugar – Adds a hint of caramelized flavor.

Cocoa Powder – Deepens the chocolate flavor.

Dark Chocolate – Provides that rich chocolate taste.

Rum or Vanilla Extract – The classic recipe uses rum extract, but feel free to substitute with vanilla extract if you prefer.

Espresso Powder (Optional) – As always, optional, but highly recommended! Espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor.

Eggs – For structure and fluffiness.

Flour – Use all-purpose flour for this recipe!

Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise.

Salt – Enhances the flavors.

Glaze

Milk & dark chocolate – Depending on how sweet you want the glaze to be, you can tweak the ratio of milk to dark chocolate. I like it a little less sweet (since the cake itself already is sweet enough) so this recipe uses more dark chocolate. 

Heavy cream – Adds richness and silkiness to the glaze.

Decor

Walnuts – Add crunch and earthy flavors that complement the chocolate perfectly. Feel free to replace it with any other nuts or mix of nuts if you prefer!

Tips for recipe success

• Allow the chocolate mixture to cool before folding it into the egg whites to keep them fluffy.
• Trust the process! This batter may look unusual as you mix, but it will come together beautifully. Just keep folding gently!
• Adjust the balance of dark and milk chocolate in the glaze to your sweetness preference.