Peanut Butter Sheet Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting

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

  1. Easy to Make: A boxed yellow cake mix is transformed into a decadent dessert with a few simple additions.
  2. Packed with Flavor: The peanut butter flavor shines in both the cake and frosting.
  3. Perfect for Sharing: The large sheet cake format makes it ideal for parties or potlucks.
  4. 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

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
  2. Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and peanut butter until well combined.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely before frosting.

2. Make the Frosting

  1. Cream the Base: In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and peanut butter until smooth.
  2. Incorporate Sugar and Flavoring: Add the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
  3. 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

  1. Frost the Cake: Spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the cooled cake using an offset spatula or knife.
  2. 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

  1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth batter and frosting.
  2. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
  3. 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!

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