Peanut Butter Sheet Cake with Creamy Frosting

If you’re a peanut butter lover, this Peanut Butter Sheet Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting is about to become your new favorite dessert. This moist, rich, and flavorful cake combines the nutty goodness of creamy peanut butter with the sweetness of a light, fluffy frosting. It’s quick to make, perfect for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings, and guaranteed to satisfy every sweet tooth. Best of all, this recipe uses simple pantry ingredients that make baking stress-free and enjoyable.

Why You’ll Love This

• Easy to Make: Uses a box cake mix for convenience without sacrificing flavor.
• Rich and Nutty Flavor: The peanut butter is baked into the cake and whipped into the frosting for double the goodness.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Large sheet cakes are perfect for gatherings, school events, or casual celebrations.
• Customizable: Easily switch up the toppings or add mix-ins to make it your own.

This recipe is proof that comfort food and indulgence can go hand in hand, with simple pantry staples transforming into something extraordinary.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Cake:

• Yellow Cake Mix: Acts as the perfect shortcut for a soft, moist cake base.
• Eggs: Add structure and richness.
• Softened Butter: Provides moisture and enhances the flavor.
• Creamy Peanut Butter: The star ingredient, giving the cake its nutty depth.
• Water: Keeps the texture light and tender.

For the Frosting:

• Butter: Creates a smooth and creamy frosting texture.
• Creamy Peanut Butter: Intensifies the peanut butter flavor.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• Milk: Adjusts consistency for spreading.
• Vanilla Extract: Balances the sweetness with warm, aromatic notes.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Cake

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Always let your butter and eggs sit at room temperature for easier mixing.
2. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the cake dense. Stir until just combined.
3. Cooling is Key: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
4. Frosting Thickness: Adjust milk or powdered sugar depending on how thick or spreadable you like your frosting.

Variations and Customizations

• Chocolate Twist: Add ½ cup cocoa powder to the cake batter for a chocolate-peanut butter combo.
• Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped peanuts or pecans for extra texture.
• Peanut Butter Cups: Top the frosted cake with mini peanut butter cups for a fun garnish.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix to make it suitable for dietary needs.

Pairing Suggestions

• Milk or Coffee: A cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Fruit Garnish: Fresh strawberries or bananas pair beautifully with peanut butter.
• Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Popular Questions

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, bake the cake one day in advance, store it covered, and frost just before serving.

2. Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter will add a crunchy texture to the cake and frosting.

3. Can I substitute oil for butter in the cake?
Yes, vegetable oil can be used, but butter gives a richer flavor.

4. What size pan should I use?
A standard 9×13-inch sheet cake pan works perfectly for this recipe.