The Peanut Butter Sheet Cake is a delightful treat for any occasion, striking an irresistible balance between sweet and salty. This easy-to-prepare recipe calls for everyday ingredients, but the result is anything but ordinary. The comforting taste of peanut butter, combined with the soft, moist texture of the cake, creates a dessert that's sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Most ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in your pantry. The star ingredient, peanut butter, is a versatile spread made from ground peanuts. It is available in creamy and crunchy varieties at any supermarket. Another key ingredient is unsalted butter, which is simply butter without added salt. You might also need to pick up peanut butter frosting from the baking aisle, a delicious topping that complements the cake perfectly.
Key Ingredients for Peanut Butter Sheet Cake
Peanut butter: This is a protein-rich spread made from ground, roasted peanuts. It lends a creamy, rich flavor to the cake.
Unsalted butter: Used in baking for its rich, creamy texture and flavor enhancement without the added salt.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance out the salty creaminess of the peanut butter.
Eggs: Acts as a binder and provides structure to the cake.
Vanilla extract: Gives a sweet, aromatic flavor that complements the peanut butter.
Whole milk: Adds moisture and helps achieve a soft, fluffy texture.
Water: Used to thin out the batter to the correct consistency.
Flour: The base of the cake, providing structure.
Baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavors of the cake.
Peanut butter frosting: A sweet, creamy topping that pairs perfectly with the peanut butter cake.
One reader, Gertrudis Kwan says:
This peanut butter sheet cake recipe is a game-changer! The cake is moist and rich, and the peanut butter frosting is absolutely divine. It's a hit with everyone who tries it. I love how easy it is to make, and it's perfect for any occasion. Highly recommended!
Key Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Peanut Butter Sheet Cake
How to prepare the peanut butter sheet cake batter: Combine the peanut butter, butter, and sugar in a stand mixer, then gradually add the eggs, vanilla, milk, and water until smooth. Sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl, then add to the batter in batches until just combined.
How to bake the peanut butter sheet cake: Pour the prepared batter into a 9x13-inch baking dish and bake at 350 degrees F for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
How to frost the peanut butter sheet cake: Spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the warm cake, allowing it to melt slightly and create a smooth, creamy layer.
How to serve the peanut butter sheet cake: Cut the cake into squares and serve, enjoying the delicious peanut butter flavor.
How To Make Peanut Butter Sheet Cake
Whipping up this sweet and salty peanut butter cake is a quick way to satisfy your sweet cravings! It’s made tastier with a smooth and nutty frosting.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ¾cuppeanut butter
- ½cupunsalted butter,softened
- 2cupssugar
- 2large eggs
- 2tspvanilla extract
- 1cupwhole milk
- 1cupwater
- 2cupsflour
- 1tspbaking soda
- ½tspsalt
- 3cupspeanut butter frosting,*
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with baking spray.
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Microwave the peanut butter for 30 seconds in a microwave-safe bowl, covered with a wet paper towel, until runny.
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To a stand mixer, add the peanut butter, butter and sugar and cream on high speed for 1 minute. Add in the eggs and vanilla until well combined.
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On the lowest speed setting, add in the milk and water until smooth.
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Sift together flour, baking soda and salt in a bowl.
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On the lowest speed setting, add the flour in batches until just combined.
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Pour the batter into the baking dish, then bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
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Spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the cake while it’s still warm.
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Serve, and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
- * Check out this Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe to go with this tasty peanut butter sheet cake!
Nutrition
- Calories: 402.78kcal
- Fat: 16.99g
- Saturated Fat: 5.50g
- Trans Fat: 0.20g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.92g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.71g
- Carbohydrates: 59.26g
- Fiber: 0.82g
- Sugar: 46.69g
- Protein: 4.50g
- Cholesterol: 32.02mg
- Sodium: 209.51mg
- Calcium: 26.39mg
- Potassium: 106.23mg
- Iron: 0.48mg
- Vitamin A: 52.43µg
Crucial Technique Tip for Peanut Butter Sheet Cake Success
When making your peanut butter sheet cake, it's important to remember not to overmix the batter once you've added the flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough cake. Instead, mix just until the flour is incorporated. This will help keep your cake light and fluffy. Additionally, spreading the peanut butter frosting while the cake is still warm allows it to melt slightly and seep into the cake, enhancing the overall peanut butter flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Peanut Butter Sheet Cake
Prep ahead: Prepare the ingredients and measure them out in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup.
Efficient chopping: Master your knife skills to chop ingredients quickly and uniformly, ensuring even cooking.
Kitchen organization: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate ingredients and cooking tools, saving time and reducing stress.
Make-ahead meals: Prepare meals in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer for quick and convenient dining during busy days.
Substitute Ingredients For Peanut Butter Sheet Cake Recipe
peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter has a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor, making it a great alternative to peanut butter in this recipe. It also provides a delicious twist to the traditional peanut butter flavor.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter, and it adds a subtle hint of coconut flavor to the cake, which complements the peanut butter well.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener and adds a unique depth of flavor to the cake. It also provides moisture and richness to the texture.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can act as a binding agent and adds moisture to the cake, similar to eggs. It also helps to keep the cake tender and moist.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a suitable dairy-free alternative that adds a subtle nutty flavor to the cake, enhancing the overall taste.
flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour: For those with gluten sensitivities, using a gluten-free flour blend can replace traditional flour without compromising the texture or flavor of the cake.
peanut butter frosting - Substitute with cream cheese frosting: Cream cheese frosting provides a tangy and creamy topping that pairs well with the nutty flavors of the cake, creating a delicious contrast.
Presentation Ideas for Peanut Butter Sheet Cake
Elevate the plating: When presenting the peanut butter sheet cake, focus on creating a visually stunning presentation. Use a clean, white plate to allow the cake's rich color to stand out. Consider adding a dusting of powdered sugar or cocoa for an elegant touch.
Garnish with fresh berries: Introduce a pop of color and freshness to the plate by garnishing with a selection of fresh berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries. Their vibrant hues will complement the nutty flavors of the cake.
Incorporate texture: Add a textural element to the presentation by including a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This will provide a delightful contrast to the moist and dense cake.
Artful drizzling: Create an artful drizzle of chocolate ganache on the plate to add a touch of sophistication. The glossy, decadent drizzle will enhance the dessert's visual appeal and add a luxurious element to the presentation.
Use edible flowers: Elevate the presentation by delicately placing edible flowers, such as pansies or violets, on the plate. The floral accents will bring a touch of elegance and a hint of whimsy to the dessert.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For a truly luxurious presentation, consider adding a delicate touch of edible gold leaf to the plate. This opulent addition will elevate the dessert and create a sense of indulgence.
Essential Tools for Making a Peanut Butter Sheet Cake
- Oven: You will need an oven to bake the sheet cake.
- Microwave: Use a microwave to melt the peanut butter.
- 9x13-inch baking dish: This is used to bake the sheet cake.
- Stand mixer: A stand mixer is used to cream the peanut butter, butter, and sugar, and to mix the batter.
- Sifter: Use a sifter to sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Spatula: A spatula will be handy for spreading the peanut butter frosting over the warm cake.
Storing and Freezing Peanut Butter Sheet Cake: A Guide
- Allow the peanut butter sheet cake to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- To store the cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- If you want to freeze the cake, follow these steps:
- Cut the cake into individual portions or leave it whole, depending on your preference.
- Wrap each portion or the entire cake tightly with plastic wrap, making sure no air pockets remain.
- Place the wrapped cake pieces or whole cake in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Freeze the peanut butter sheet cake for up to 3 months.
- To thaw the frozen cake, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.
- Once thawed, remove the plastic wrap and let the cake come to room temperature before serving.
- If desired, you can refresh the peanut butter frosting by placing the cake under the broiler for a few seconds or using a kitchen torch to lightly toast the top.
How to Reheat Leftover Peanut Butter Sheet Cake
To reheat leftover peanut butter sheet cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a piece of the cake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the cake loosely with another piece of foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cake is heated through and the frosting is soft and gooey.
Another option is to use the microwave. Place a slice of the cake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 15-20 seconds. Check the cake and heat it for an additional 5-10 seconds if needed. Be careful not to overheat the cake, as it can become rubbery or dry.
For a crispy exterior and a soft, warm interior, try reheating the cake in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place a slice of the cake in the basket. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the cake is heated through and the edges are slightly crispy.
If you want to reheat a larger portion of the cake, you can use a steamer. Place the cake in a heatproof dish and set it in a steamer basket over simmering water. Cover the steamer and let the cake heat for 5-10 minutes, or until it's warmed through. This method helps keep the cake moist and prevents it from drying out.
For a quick and easy reheating method, use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place a slice of the cake on the rack. Toast for 3-5 minutes, or until the cake is heated through and the frosting is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on the cake to ensure it doesn't burn.
Fascinating Fact About Peanut Butter Sheet Cake
The peanut butter sheet cake recipe is a delicious and easy dessert that is perfect for feeding a crowd. It's a great option for potlucks, parties, or family gatherings. This cake is rich in peanut butter flavor and topped with a creamy peanut butter frosting, making it a favorite for peanut butter lovers. It's a simple and satisfying treat that can be enjoyed by all.
Is Making Peanut Butter Sheet Cake at Home Cost-Effective?
This peanut butter sheet cake recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as peanut butter, unsalted butter, sugar, and flour, are commonly found in most kitchens. The addition of eggs and milk is also budget-friendly. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, making it an affordable dessert option. In terms of taste and satisfaction, this recipe earns a solid 9 out of 10, making it a delightful and economical choice for a sweet treat.
Is Peanut Butter Sheet Cake Healthy or Unhealthy?
This peanut butter sheet cake recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:
- High sugar content (2 cups)
- Significant amount of saturated fat from butter and peanut butter
- Refined flour, which lacks fiber and nutrients
- Large portion size (9x13-inch cake)
However, there are ways to make this recipe healthier without compromising too much on taste:
- Reduce the sugar content by using a sugar substitute or cutting the amount in half
- Replace some or all of the butter with healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt or mashed avocado
- Use whole wheat flour instead of refined flour to increase fiber and nutrient content
- Incorporate additional healthy ingredients like shredded zucchini or carrots for added moisture and nutrients
- Cut the cake into smaller portions to encourage mindful eating and portion control
By making these adjustments, you can still enjoy the indulgent flavors of a peanut butter sheet cake while making it a bit more nutritious. Remember, moderation is key, and it's okay to treat yourself occasionally as part of a balanced diet. Consider pairing a smaller slice of this cake with fresh fruit or a glass of low-fat milk to round out the snack or dessert.
Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on This Peanut Butter Sheet Cake Recipe
The peanut butter sheet cake recipe you've provided seems delightful. The combination of peanut butter, butter, and sugar creates a rich and indulgent base, while the addition of milk and water ensures a moist and tender texture. The use of peanut butter frosting adds a luscious finish to the cake. However, I would suggest considering the balance of sweetness and the potential richness of the cake. It's important to ensure that the flavors are harmonious and not overwhelming. Overall, this recipe has great potential for a decadent and satisfying dessert.
Enhance Your Peanut Butter Sheet Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Peanut Butter Sheet Cake
Ideal Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Peanut Butter Sheet Cake
Why trust this Peanut Butter Sheet Cake Recipe:
This recipe uses peanut butter and butter to create a rich and indulgent flavor. The combination of sugar and vanilla extract adds sweetness and depth. The use of whole milk and water ensures a moist and tender texture. The flour provides structure, while baking soda and salt help the cake rise and balance the flavors. The addition of peanut butter frosting complements the cake perfectly, creating a decadent and satisfying dessert.
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