Name: Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 2 cups powdered sugar; 2–4 tablespoons milk; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; pinch of salt

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that is equal parts nostalgia and pure indulgence, look no further than this Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting. Moist, fluffy cake infused with the unmistakable flavor of creamy peanut butter is crowned with a luscious, cloud-like peanut butter frosting. Every bite is a celebration for peanut butter lovers, and this recipe couldn’t be easier or more satisfying. Whether you bake it up for a casual afternoon treat or to impress a crowd at your next gathering, Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting is bound to become one of your most requested recipes.

Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this cake is how it uses simple, classic pantry staples—but each ingredient is essential for achieving that signature lift, flavor, and dreamy texture. Here’s what you’ll need, with a few tips to make sure every bite is perfection.

All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of the cake, providing structure and softness in every slice.
Baking powder and baking soda: These give your cake its beautiful rise and tender crumb, so don’t skip them!
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the deep, nutty flavors of the peanut butter.
Unsalted butter, softened: Essential for both the cake and frosting, it brings richness and helps create a fluffy texture.
Creamy peanut butter: The star of the show for both cake and frosting—opt for your favorite brand for the boldest flavor.
Granulated sugar: Brings sweetness and helps soften the cake’s crumb.
Brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses for extra depth and a subtle chewiness to the cake.
Eggs (large): These provide structure, binding everything beautifully, and lend a light richness.
Vanilla extract: Works like magic to round out and elevate all the nutty notes.
Whole milk: Supplies moisture and ensures the cake is supremely tender.
Powdered sugar: For that classic, fluffy frosting—sift it for the smoothest finish.
Milk (for frosting): Add a bit at a time for your preferred spreadability; creaminess is key here.
Pinch of salt (frosting): Balances the sweetness and puts the peanut butter flavor front and center.

How to Make Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish—or line it with parchment if you prefer easy lifting. This ensures nothing sticks, and your Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting comes out clean and gorgeous every time.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This quick step means your leaveners and salt will be evenly distributed throughout the batter, making for a tender, well-risen cake with flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Cream the Butter, Peanut Butter, and Sugars

Using a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until you have a light, fluffy mixture. No need to rush—give this about 3-4 minutes so everything is fully incorporated and creamy. This base infuses richness and depth into your Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then splash in the vanilla extract. This keeps your batter smooth, cohesive, and brimming with a sweet, nutty aroma.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the whole milk—beginning and ending with the flour. Stir just until everything is combined. Over-mixing can toughen your cake, so stop as soon as you see no more dry streaks.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter gently into your prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Slide it into the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. You’ll know the cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few crumbs. Let the cake cool completely in the pan—this gives you the best results when spreading your dreamy peanut butter frosting.

Step 7: Make the Peanut Butter Frosting

In a clean mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and peanut butter until perfectly smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, a little at a time, then drizzle in milk one tablespoon at a time and a hint of vanilla. Finish with a pinch of salt, then whip it all together until light, fluffy, and utterly irresistible. Adjust the milk to get your preferred creamy consistency.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

Once your cake is completely cool, generously slather on the frosting, swirling it to your heart’s content. Serve right out of the pan, or dress it up with your favorite toppings—the classic Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting is a sight to behold and even better to eat!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting

Garnishes

Nobody can resist a playful finish! Try a shower of chopped roasted peanuts for a delightful crunch, or scatter mini chocolate chips over the top for a sweet surprise. If you’re entertaining, a drizzle of warm chocolate or caramel sauce brings drama and even more decadence to your Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting.

Side Dishes

Balance out the richness with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Slices of fresh strawberries or banana on the side brighten every bite and complement the buttery, nutty flavor. If you’re serving this for a coffee break, a hot cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk is absolute perfection.

Creative Ways to Present

Who says sheet cake needs to be plain? Cut your Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting into small, elegant squares and stack them with wax paper for a bake sale treat, or use cookie cutters to create fun shapes for birthdays. Layer leftover cake and frosting in mason jars for portable, whimsical desserts everyone will remember!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, cover the cake loosely with plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. The flavors meld and the cake stays moist, so it’s even better the next day. For extra freshness, you can also refrigerate it, especially in warmer climates.

Freezing

Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting freezes beautifully. To freeze, wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to indulge again—frosting and all.

Reheating

If you like your cake a little warm, microwave individual slices for 10 to 15 seconds. This softens the cake and makes the frosting slightly melty, enhancing the homemade, comforting feel. Just be careful not to overheat or the frosting could separate.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?

Using natural peanut butter can affect texture, since it often contains more oil and less sugar. For best results and a truly classic Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting, stick with creamy processed peanut butter. If you try natural, make sure it’s well stirred and expect slightly different results.

What’s the secret to super fluffy frosting?

The trick is to beat the frosting ingredients until they’re pale and airy, adding milk just a tablespoon at a time. Don’t rush—give the frosting a good 2–3 minutes with the mixer for that billowy, cloud-like result. Also, sift powdered sugar to prevent any lumps.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute a good-quality gluten-free flour blend (look for one that includes xanthan gum) for the all-purpose flour. You may notice a slightly different crumb, but the flavors will still shine through.

How do I know when the cake is baked perfectly?

The cake is done when a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs—no wet batter. The top should also spring back lightly when pressed. Ovens may vary, so keep an eye on it after the 30-minute mark.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Of course! Just bake in two 9×13-inch pans, or use one large sheet pan for slightly thinner cake layers. Double the frosting as well, and get ready for rave reviews—this Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting vanishes fast at any party.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a peanut butter fan, this cake truly hits the jackpot. Every bite of Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting blends rich, familiar flavors with homemade comfort that brings smiles all around. I hope you’ll give it a try and make it your new tradition for celebrations big and small. Happy baking!

Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 11 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the rich, nutty flavor of this Peanut Butter Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting. A moist and decadent dessert that’s sure to satisfy any peanut butter lover’s cravings.

Ingredients

Scale

For the cake:

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk

For the frosting:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup creamy peanut butter
2 cups powdered sugar
2–4 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
pinch of salt

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
Add flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix just until combined.
Pour batter into prepared dish and smooth the top.
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool completely.
For the frosting, beat butter and peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and salt, beating until fluffy and spreadable.
Frost the cooled cake and serve.