Peanut Butter Sheet Cake

If you are a peanut butter lover, then this recipe for Peanut Butter Sheet Cake is going to make your taste buds dance with joy. This dessert brings a new twist to the classic Texas Sheet Cake. With its fudgy, moist texture and creamy peanut butter frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are celebrating a special event or just want to enjoy a sweet treat at home, this Peanut Butter Sheet Cake is bound to become a favorite in your household.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

What makes this Peanut Butter Sheet Cake so special? First, it is incredibly easy to make. You do not need any fancy baking skills or equipment. Just follow the simple steps, and you will have a delicious cake ready in no time.

Secondly, the combination of fudgy cake and creamy peanut butter frosting is simply irresistible. The cake is light yet rich, making it perfect for those who love a moist dessert. Each bite melts in your mouth and fills you with the wonderful taste of peanut butter.

Lastly, this cake is very versatile. You can make it for birthdays, potlucks, or just as a treat for yourself and your family. It is a simple recipe that can make any day special.

How to Prepare Peanut Butter Sheet Cake

Now, let’s dive into how to prepare this delightful Peanut Butter Sheet Cake. Don’t worry; we will guide you through each step, so you can bake like a pro!

Ingredients:

To make the Peanut Butter Sheet Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chocolate chips (optional, for added flavor)

For the frosting, you will need:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Follow these simple steps to make the Peanut Butter Sheet Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an important step to ensure your cake bakes evenly.
2. Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This will prevent your cake from sticking.
3. Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream everything together until it is light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Add the Peanut Butter and Eggs: Add the creamy peanut butter and mix until combined. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. Add Vanilla and Chocolate Chips: Stir in the vanilla extract and chocolate chips if you’re using them.
7. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 20 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Make the Frosting: While the cake cools, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and heavy cream, mixing until you reach a creamy and spreadable consistency.
10. Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the top. You can use a spatula to create swirls or smooth it out.
11. Slice and Serve: Cut the cake into squares and serve it to your family and friends.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Sheet Cake

To serve the Peanut Butter Sheet Cake, simply cut it into squares or rectangles. You can plate each piece individually for a nice presentation. Consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side for an extra treat. This combination pairs beautifully with the rich flavor of the cake.

How to Store Peanut Butter Sheet Cake

Storing your Peanut Butter Sheet Cake is easy. If you have any leftovers, let the cake cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it at room temperature for a few days. If you want to keep it longer, place it in the fridge, and it will last up to a week. If you need to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Tips for Preparing Peanut Butter Sheet Cake

1. Measure Ingredients Accurately: Take your time to measure ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, so accuracy is key.
2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and butter will help you achieve a smooth batter that mixes well.
3. Don’t Overmix: Mixing the batter just until all the ingredients are combined will ensure a light and fluffy texture.
4. Check for Doneness: Always check your cake a few minutes before the baking time ends. Ovens can vary, and you don’t want to overbake your cake.
5. Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your frosting! You can add crushed peanuts, chocolate drizzle, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for a delightful twist.

Variation

If you want to switch things up, here are a couple of variations you can try:

• Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake: Replace a portion of the flour with cocoa powder for a chocolatey version of the cake. You can also use chocolate frosting instead of peanut butter frosting.
• Necklace Cupcakes: Instead of making a sheet cake, you can bake the batter in cupcake liners for individual servings. Reduce the baking time to about 18-20 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
   Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a nuttier texture. It will add an extra bite to your cake.
2. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
   Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. Make sure to check that your sugar and baking soda are gluten-free as well.
3. Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare the frosting ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it come to room temperature and re-mix it before spreading it on the cake.

In conclusion, the Peanut Butter Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that is sure to please anyone who enjoys the rich flavor of peanut butter. With its simple preparation and rich, moist texture, it is perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients and get ready to bake this fantastic cake!