Peanut Butter Sheet Cake with Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting
Peanut Butter Sheet Cake with Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting
Indulge in the ultimate peanut butter experience with this moist, rich Peanut Butter Sheet Cake, topped with a silky-smooth peanut butter frosting. Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or any sweet occasion, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious!"
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Simple: Using a boxed cake mix makes preparation effortless.
- Peanut Butter Heaven: Combines the nutty richness of peanut butter in both the cake and the frosting.
- Crowd Pleaser: A generous sheet cake perfect for feeding a large group.
- Customizable: Add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or drizzle chocolate for extra flair.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup water
For the Frosting:
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2–4 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, softened butter, water, and peanut butter. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth and well-blended.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
Step 2: Make the Frosting
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, beat powdered sugar, peanut butter, and softened butter together until smooth.
- Adjust Consistency: Add milk one tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Frost the Cake
- Once the cake is completely cool, use a spatula to evenly spread the frosting over the top.
- For an optional garnish, sprinkle chopped peanuts, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup on top.
Serving and Storage
- Serving: Cut into squares and serve at room temperature. Pair with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee for a comforting treat.
- Storage: Cover and store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Thaw, frost, and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your peanut butter and baking essentials are fresh for the best flavor.
- Fluffy Frosting: For an airier texture, beat the frosting for an additional 1–2 minutes.
- Enhanced Peanut Butter Flavor: Swirl an extra tablespoon of peanut butter into the cake batter before baking.
Creative Variations
- Chocolate-Peanut Butter Combo: Use a chocolate cake mix instead of yellow for a rich, Reese’s-inspired treat.
- Crunchy Twist: Opt for crunchy peanut butter to add texture to both the cake and frosting.
- Peanut Butter Drizzle: Drizzle melted peanut butter over the frosted cake for a decorative finish.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, a white or chocolate cake mix works wonderfully for variations.
2. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix to accommodate dietary needs.
3. Can I reduce the sugar in the frosting?
Yes! Use a sugar substitute like powdered erythritol for a lower-sugar option.
4. Can I make this cake vegan?
Use a plant-based cake mix, egg replacer, vegan butter, and dairy-free milk for a vegan-friendly version.
5. How can I make the frosting less sweet?
Add a pinch of salt or use less powdered sugar while maintaining the consistency with extra milk.
Why This Cake is Perfect for Any Occasion
The combination of the moist, buttery cake with the decadent peanut butter frosting makes this dessert irresistible. Whether for a casual family gathering or a holiday celebration, this sheet cake is guaranteed to impress with minimal effort.
Peanut butter lovers, rejoice! This Peanut Butter Sheet Cake with Creamy Frosting is your dream dessert. It’s rich, moist, and bursting with nutty flavor. Perfect for gatherings or as a personal indulgence, this cake delivers satisfaction in every bite. Try this recipe today—you’ll keep coming back for more! 🍰✨