Peanut Butter Sheet Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting
If you’re a peanut butter lover, this Peanut Butter Sheet Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting is a dream come true! The moist, rich cake is infused with creamy peanut butter, creating a soft and tender texture that melts in your mouth. Topped with a sweet, velvety peanut butter frosting, this cake is simple to make yet full of flavor. Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort, this sheet cake is sure to satisfy all your dessert cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake is incredibly easy to make, thanks to the use of a yellow cake mix that’s enhanced with creamy peanut butter. The combination of flavors is irresistibly rich, and the frosting is sweet and smooth with just the right amount of peanut butter goodness. Plus, it’s baked in a sheet pan, making it the perfect dessert for serving a crowd. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a peanut butter treat, this recipe will become your go-to!
The Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 cup softened butter
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
For the Frosting:
- 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup softened butter
- 2+ tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the cake batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, softened butter, water, and peanut butter. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
- Make the frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together the confectioners’ sugar, peanut butter, and softened butter until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of milk, beating until you achieve a smooth and spreadable consistency. If needed, add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired texture.
- Frost the cake: Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the top of the cake using a spatula.
- Serve: Slice and serve the cake immediately, or store it in the refrigerator for later. Enjoy the rich, peanut buttery goodness!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: This peanut butter sheet cake is perfect for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
- Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the cake (unfrosted) for up to 3 months and frost it after thawing.
Helpful Notes
- For extra peanut butter flavor, swirl a little more peanut butter into the batter before baking.
- If you prefer a fluffier frosting, beat the peanut butter frosting for an additional 1-2 minutes to incorporate more air.
- Feel free to add a sprinkle of chopped peanuts or chocolate chips on top of the frosting for added texture and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a bit of texture in the cake and frosting. It will add a subtle crunch to each bite.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it before serving. Just store the cake covered in the refrigerator.
3. Can I use a chocolate cake mix instead of yellow?
Yes! A chocolate cake mix would create a delicious chocolate-peanut butter combination that’s just as irresistible.
4. Can I make this frosting less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of confectioners’ sugar slightly or add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness if you prefer.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe and bake it in a larger sheet pan to serve more people, making it perfect for large gatherings.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Sheet Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting is a simple yet indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any peanut butter fan. The rich cake, paired with the creamy frosting, delivers a heavenly bite that’s sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to share with friends or just want to treat yourself to something special, this sheet cake is the perfect answer. Enjoy every delicious, peanut-buttery bite!