Indulge in the ultimate peanut butter lover’s dream with this Peanut Butter Sheet Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting. This rich, moist cake pairs the nutty goodness of peanut butter with a smooth, creamy frosting, creating a dessert that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself to a sweet escape, this recipe is easy to prepare and bound to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: A boxed yellow cake mix is transformed into a decadent dessert with a few simple additions.
- Packed with Flavor: The peanut butter flavor shines in both the cake and frosting.
- Perfect for Sharing: The large sheet cake format makes it ideal for parties or potlucks.
- Customizable: Add toppings like crushed peanuts or chocolate drizzle for a personalized touch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix: The base for this quick and easy dessert.
- 4 eggs: Adds structure and richness.
- 1/2 cup softened butter: Ensures a tender, moist texture.
- 1 cup water: Provides the liquid needed for the batter.
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient for a nutty, flavorful cake.
For the Frosting
- 3 cups confectioners’ sugar: For that perfect sweet and fluffy texture.
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Adds rich, nutty flavor.
- 1/2 cup softened butter: Creates a smooth, creamy consistency.
- 2+ tablespoons milk: Adjusts the frosting’s texture.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
- Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and peanut butter until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the eggs, yellow cake mix, and water to the peanut butter mixture. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes, or until the batter is smooth and creamy.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely before frosting.
2. Make the Frosting
- Cream the Base: In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and peanut butter until smooth.
- Incorporate Sugar and Flavoring: Add the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
- Adjust Consistency: Add 2 tablespoons of milk to the frosting mixture and beat until fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.
3. Assemble the Cake
- Frost the Cake: Spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the cooled cake using an offset spatula or knife.
- Optional Toppings: Sprinkle with crushed peanuts, drizzle with chocolate syrup, or add a dusting of powdered sugar for extra flair.
Serving Suggestions
- For a Crowd: Cut the cake into 24 squares for easy serving.
- Pairing: Serve with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee to complement the rich flavors.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth batter and frosting.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Cool Completely: Make sure the cake is completely cool before applying the frosting to avoid melting.
Variations to Try
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Twist: Add chocolate chips to the batter or drizzle melted chocolate over the frosting.
- Crunchy Topping: Stir in crushed peanuts or toffee bits for added texture.
- Layered Cake: Double the recipe and create a layered version with frosting between each layer.
FAQs
Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter?
Yes, but ensure it’s well-stirred before using to avoid separation in the batter or frosting.
How Do I Prevent the Cake from Sticking?
Grease the pan thoroughly or use parchment paper for easy removal.
Can I Make This Cake Ahead?
Absolutely! Bake the cake and frost it a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Sheet Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting is a show-stopping dessert that’s as simple to make as it is delicious. The combination of a soft, moist cake and rich, creamy frosting is a peanut butter lover’s dream come true. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to become a family favorite.
Bake it today and experience the irresistible magic of homemade peanut butter bliss!