Peanut Butter Sheet Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about a slice of moist cake, especially when it’s infused with the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter. This Peanut Butter Sheet Cake has become a favorite in our household, winning over family members and friends alike. The blend of creamy peanut butter in both the cake and frosting creates a delightful harmony that satisfies any sweet tooth. It’s the kind of dessert that brings smiles, sparks conversation, and often prompts requests for seconds—if not thirds! Whether it’s a birthday party, potluck, or just a cozy family gathering, this cake is always a hit.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 4 eggs
• ½ cup softened butter
• 1 cup water
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter

For the Frosting:

• 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• ½ cup softened butter
• 2+ tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.

Prepare the Cake

2. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and creamy peanut butter until well combined.
3. Add the eggs, yellow cake mix, and water. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes, or until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.

Prepare the Frosting

7. In a medium bowl, cream the softened butter and creamy peanut butter together until well incorporated and fluffy.
8. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of milk. Mix until the frosting is light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add an additional tablespoon of milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Frost the Cake

9. Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the top using a spatula.

Serve

10. Slice the cake into squares and enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Sheet Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12-15 servings
• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
• Total Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 43 g
• Dietary Fiber: 1 g
• Sugars: 28 g
• Protein: 5 g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes + cooling time

How to Serve

• Slice and Serve: Cut into squares and serve on a dessert plate.
• Garnish: Drizzle with extra peanut butter or chocolate sauce for an added treat.
• Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee.
• Presentation: Decorate with chopped peanuts or chocolate shavings for an extra touch.

Additional Tips

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter and frosting.
2. Mixing: Don’t overmix the cake batter; mix just until combined for a light texture.
3. Storing Frosting: If you have leftover frosting, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
4. Nut Allergies: For a nut-free version, substitute with sunflower seed butter.
5. Testing Doneness: Always check for doneness with a toothpick to avoid overbaking.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake: Substitute half of the yellow cake mix with chocolate cake mix for a delicious twist.
• Add-Ins: Stir in chocolate chips or crushed peanuts into the cake batter for added texture.
• Frosting Variation: For a chocolate frosting, mix cocoa powder into the frosting recipe.

Serving Suggestions

• Potlucks: This cake is perfect for sharing at gatherings and parties.
• Birthdays: Make it a birthday cake by adding fun candles.
• Holiday Treat: Customize with seasonal decorations for holidays.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing the Cake: Wrap slices of the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
• Storing: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use natural peanut butter?

• Yes, but it may change the texture slightly; natural peanut butter is often less creamy.

1. How can I make this cake gluten-free?

• Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix instead of regular cake mix.

1. Can I make this cake in advance?

• Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day ahead and frost it when you’re ready to serve.

1. What should I do if my frosting is too runny?

• Add more confectioners’ sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

1. Can I substitute the yellow cake mix?

• Yes, you can use a vanilla or white cake mix as a substitute.

1. How long can I store this cake?

• It can be stored at room temperature for 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

1. Is there a vegan option?

• Yes! Use a vegan cake mix, plant-based butter, and a vegan egg substitute.

1. Can I add chocolate chips to the cake?

• Definitely! Fold in about 1 cup of chocolate chips for a delicious twist.

1. What’s the best way to cut the cake?

• Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for neat slices.

1. How can I make the frosting fluffier?
   • Beat the frosting longer and add milk gradually until you reach your desired fluffiness.

Conclusion

This Peanut Butter Sheet Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that embodies comfort and nostalgia. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or simply because you crave something sweet, this cake will not disappoint. The moist cake combined with the rich frosting creates a delightful experience for peanut butter lovers. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share with friends and family—though you might want to keep a slice or two for yourself!

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