Peanut Butter Sheet Cake With Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe

Dreamy Peanut Butter Sheet Cake With Homemade Frosting Recipe

Crafting a mouthwatering peanut butter sheet cake becomes an adventure of pure indulgence.

Soft, tender layers promise incredible comfort in every delectable bite.

Smooth peanut butter infuses the dessert with rich, creamy goodness that melts on your tongue.

Decadent frosting adds an irresistible layer of nutty sweetness to complement the cake’s delicate crumb.

Baking this treat requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor satisfaction.

Home bakers will find this recipe surprisingly simple yet impressively delicious.

Dive into a slice and experience pure dessert magic that transforms an ordinary moment into something extraordinary.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Sheet Cake

For the Cake Base:
  • Cake Mix: A convenient baking mix that provides the foundational structure for the cake.
  • Butter: A rich ingredient that adds moisture and enhances the cake's flavor.
  • Peanut Butter: Provides a deep, nutty flavor that complements the cake's overall taste.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake's texture.
  • Water: Helps to create a smooth and consistent cake batter.
For the Frosting:
  • Butter: Creates a creamy base for the frosting.
  • Peanut Butter: Adds a rich, nutty flavor to the frosting.
  • Confectioners Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a smooth, spreadable consistency.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the frosting.
For the Liquid Adjustment:
  • Milk: Helps to adjust the frosting's consistency and create a light, fluffy texture.

How to Make Sheet Cake With Frosting

How to Make Sheet Cake With Frosting

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Turn your oven to a cozy 325F (163C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and give it a quick spray with cooking oil to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Base

Grab your electric mixer and start blending:
  • Softened butter
  • Creamy peanut butter

Whip these together until they’re best friends and look smooth.

Toss in:
  • Eggs
  • Cake mix
  • Water

Beat everything on medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter looks silky and perfect.

Pour this heavenly mixture into your prepared pan.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 40 minutes.

Check if it’s done by poking a toothpick in the center – if it comes out clean, you’re golden! Let the cake cool down completely before decorating.

Step 4: Whip Up the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, cream together:
  • Softened butter
  • Creamy peanut butter

Until they’re super smooth and combined.

Gradually add:
  • Confectioners sugar
  • Vanilla extract
  • Milk

Mix until the frosting looks light and fluffy.

If it’s too thick, splash in a bit more milk until it’s just right.

Step 5: Frost and Serve

Spread that dreamy peanut butter frosting all over the cooled cake.

Slice into delectable squares and get ready to wow everyone with your baking skills!

Tips for Peanut Butter Frosting Success

  • Replace yellow cake mix with white or gluten-free options for dietary variations without compromising taste.
  • Adjust milk quantity gradually to achieve perfect spreadable consistency, preventing runny or overly thick frosting.
  • Check cake doneness early and avoid overbaking by testing with a toothpick around 35-38 minutes for maximum moisture.
  • Sprinkle chopped peanuts or chocolate chips on top of frosted cake for added crunch and visual appeal.
  • Allow butter, eggs, and milk to sit at room temperature for smoother mixing and better cake texture.

Different Styles for Peanut Butter Sheet Cake

  • Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cake: Fold 1 cup of chocolate chips into the cake batter before baking for a rich, sweet contrast to the nutty peanut butter flavor.
  • Banana Peanut Butter Cake: Mash 2 ripe bananas into the cake batter to add moisture and create a fruity undertone that complements the peanut butter.
  • Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Cake: Drizzle homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce over the frosted cake for a decadent, salty-sweet finish.
  • Nutty Crunch Cake: Sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts or pecans on top of the frosting to add a crunchy texture and extra nutty flavor.

What to Pair With This Rich Sheet Cake

Pair Peanut-Packed Dessert with Complementary Flavors:
  • Sip Rich Chocolate Milk: Creamy chocolate beverage enhances the nutty peanut butter cake's deep, smooth taste and provides a delightful contrast.
  • Brew Dark Roast Coffee: Strong, bold coffee cuts through the cake's sweetness while highlighting its rich peanut butter profile.
  • Serve Cold Vanilla Milkshake: Smooth, sweet milkshake creates a refreshing balance against the dense, decadent cake texture.
  • Add Salted Caramel Ice Cream: Cool, sweet-salty ice cream complements the cake's intense peanut butter flavor and adds luxurious creaminess.

How to Keep Sheet Cake Moist and Soft

  • Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out and absorbing other food odors.
  • Wrap the entire unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.
  • Cut cake into individual portions, wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months for quick single-serving treats.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of peanut butter?

Yes, you can use creamy or crunchy peanut butter. Just ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.

  • Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! The sheet cake method is straightforward and requires basic baking skills. Follow the steps carefully, and you’ll have a delicious cake.

  • Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free cake mix instead of the regular cake mix. Check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

  • How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean with no wet batter, the cake is done. Avoid overbaking to keep the cake moist.

Why This Peanut Butter Cake Is So Rich

  • Dive into Family Fun: Perfect for gathering loved ones around a sweet, shareable dessert that brings smiles and creates memories.
  • Master Stress-Free Baking: Simple one-pan recipe with minimal ingredients and straightforward mixing technique makes this cake accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
  • Customize Your Comfort: Easily adjust frosting thickness with milk and enjoy a versatile dessert that can be dressed up or down for casual gatherings or special celebrations.
  • Indulge in Peanut Butter Paradise: Rich, creamy peanut butter flavor infused throughout both cake and frosting delivers an irresistible treat that satisfies serious peanut butter cravings.
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Peanut Butter Sheet Cake With Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe

Peanut Butter Sheet Cake With Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe


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4.6 from 17 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Indulgent peanut butter sheet cake celebrates creamy, rich flavors with a luscious homemade frosting that delights dessert enthusiasts. Moist layers of peanut butter goodness promise pure comfort you won’t be able to resist.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 box yellow cake mix
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup softened butter
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup water

Wet Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Frosting Ingredients:

  • 3 cups confectioners sugar
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup softened butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan with a light coating of grease to prevent sticking.
  2. In a mixing bowl, blend softened butter and peanut butter using an electric mixer until smooth and fully integrated.
  3. Incorporate eggs, cake mix, and water into the butter mixture, beating thoroughly for 2 minutes to create a uniform batter.
  4. Transfer the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, ensuring a level surface for consistent baking.
  5. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean when the cake is fully cooked.
  6. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature before applying frosting.
  7. For the frosting, whip softened butter and peanut butter together until creamy and well-combined.
  8. Gradually fold in confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and initial milk quantity, mixing until the frosting achieves a light, fluffy texture.
  9. Adjust frosting consistency by adding milk incrementally, creating a spreadable yet stable mixture.
  10. Once the cake has cooled, generously spread the peanut butter frosting across the entire surface, creating an even layer.
  11. Slice into squares and serve the decadent peanut butter sheet cake to eager dessert lovers.

Notes

  • Adjust oven temperature for even baking by rotating the pan halfway through to prevent uneven browning.
  • Opt for creamy peanut butter to ensure a smoother texture and more consistent cake consistency.
  • Use room temperature ingredients like eggs and butter to help them blend more seamlessly and create a lighter cake crumb.
  • Customize the frosting’s sweetness by gradually adding powdered sugar and tasting as you go, allowing for personal preference.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 468
  • Sugar: 33 g
  • Sodium: 285 mg
  • Fat: 32 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 39 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 9 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Clara Bennett

Clara Bennett

Contributing Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Development, Gluten-Free and Allergy-Friendly Recipe Creation, Culinary Storytelling and Food Journalism, Recipe Testing and Standardization, Southern Comfort Foods and Modern Twists

Education

Sullivan University – National Center for Hospitality Studies
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts

Focus: Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing, and Culinary Journalism.

Clara specialized in crafting desserts that blend classic Southern comfort with modern techniques, while developing strong writing skills to tell the story behind every dish.

Lane Community College (Certificate Program)
Certificate in Food Writing and Photography

Focus: Culinary storytelling, recipe formatting, food styling, and visual presentation.


Clara’s love of baking started young, powered by homemade pies, biscuits, and stories passed around the family table.
After earning her degree at Sullivan University and a food writing certificate at Lane Community College, she turned her passion into a craft: sharing recipes that are simple, soulful, and always full of heart.
She’s big on bold flavors, flexible ideas, and creating sweets that fit any table (yes, even if you’re gluten-free). When she’s not baking, you’ll find her wandering farmers’ markets, styling food for the next photo shoot, or working on her ever-growing recipe journal.

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