Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Peanut Butter Sheet Cake stands out for its simplicity and flavor. Utilizing a yellow cake mix as the base, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. The marriage of flavors is wonderfully rich, while the peanut butter frosting exudes sweetness and smoothness, striking just the right balance. Since it’s baked in a convenient sheet pan, this cake is the ultimate choice for gatherings. No matter if it’s a birthday celebration, a family reunion, or merely a peanut butter fix, this recipe is bound to find a spot in your regular rotation!

The Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 4 large 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:

1. Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the cake batter: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the yellow cake mix, eggs, softened butter, water, and peanut butter. With an electric mixer, blend on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and fully combined.
3. Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepped baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. 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.
4. Make the frosting: In a medium bowl, mix the confectioners’ sugar, peanut butter, and softened butter until you achieve a smooth consistency. Incorporate the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of milk, mixing until spreadable. Add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, if needed to reach your desired texture.
5. Frost the cake: Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the top using a spatula.
6. Serve: Slice the cake and serve immediately, or you can store it in the refrigerator for later enjoyment. Dive into the rich, creamy peanut butter bliss!

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: This peanut butter sheet cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a party, a potluck, or a cozy family gathering. For the best flavor and texture, serve it chilled or at room temperature.
• Storage: To keep any leftovers fresh, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cake (without frosting) for up to 3 months. Frost it once you’ve thawed it out.

Helpful Notes

• If you’re craving an extra kick of peanut butter, swirl a bit more into the batter before you bake it.
• To achieve a fluffier frosting, beat the frosting for an additional 1–2 minutes to incorporate more air.
• Add some chopped peanuts or chocolate chips on top of the frosting for extra texture and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to both the cake and frosting, giving it a fun twist.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Sure! You can bake this cake a day in advance. Just store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to frost and serve.

3. Can I use a chocolate cake mix instead of yellow?
Yes! A chocolate cake mix will create a tasty chocolate-peanut butter combination that you won’t be able to resist.

4. Can I make this frosting less sweet?
You can adjust the sweetness by reducing the confectioners’ sugar or adding a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.

5. Can I double the recipe?
Easily! You can double the ingredients and bake it in a larger sheet pan for larger gatherings, ensuring everyone gets a piece.