If you’ve been on the lookout for a truly comforting, nostalgic dessert that hits all the right notes, this Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake Recipe is an absolute keeper. Imagine biting into a moist, tender cake infused with rich, creamy peanut butter flavor, topped off with a luscious peanut butter frosting that’s sweet but never overpowering. Perfectly balanced and delightfully simple, this classic sheet cake brings the warmth of Southern cooking straight to your kitchen. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this cake’s old-school charm and irresistible taste make it one of my all-time favorites to share and savor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this cake is refreshingly straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role. From the all-purpose flour that forms the cake’s tender crumb to the creamy peanut butter that gives it that unmistakable flavor, every component is essential for achieving perfection.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure needed for a soft and tender cake.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed: Brings moisture and a subtle caramel note.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise evenly.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder for added lift and lightness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Contributes richness and tenderness to the crumb.
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Infuses the cake with that signature, creamy peanut flavor.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and helps create a smooth batter.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Lifts the peanut butter flavor with subtle warmth.
- For the peanut butter frosting: 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened, 2 cups powdered sugar, 1/4 cup milk (plus more if needed), 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, pinch of salt.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Mix Dry Ingredients
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Giving these a good mix upfront ensures every bite is perfectly balanced with flavor and texture.
Step 2: Add Butter, Peanut Butter, and Milk
Next, add the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, and whole milk to the dry mixture. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the ingredients together for 2 to 3 minutes until smooth and fully combined. This step is essential for a batter that is light, creamy, and well blended.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Now, crack in the eggs and pour in the vanilla extract. Beat the mixture again for about one minute until the batter looks light and fluffy. Trust me, this extra whipping makes all the difference by adding a tender lift to your cake.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The wonderful aroma filling your kitchen at this stage is part of the magic!
Step 5: Make the Peanut Butter Frosting
While your cake cools completely (don’t skip this, as warm cake will melt your frosting), beat together the peanut butter and softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, then mix in the milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting achieves a smooth, spreadable consistency; add a bit more milk if necessary.
Step 6: Frost and Enjoy
Spread the luscious peanut butter frosting evenly over the cooled cake using an offset spatula or a butter knife. This final touch elevates the cake to something truly special – thick, creamy, and packed with flavor.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of chopped roasted peanuts adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the cake’s softness. For an indulgent twist, try drizzling melted chocolate on top – the combination of chocolate and peanut butter is a timeless favorite no one can resist.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a luscious, creamy complement. Fresh berries on the side can also provide a pop of color and a subtle tartness to balance the rich sweetness of the cake.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to wow your guests? Cut the cake into bite-sized squares and serve on a platter with small forks for easy snacking. Or, stack layers of this cake with extra frosting and crunchy peanut bits to create an elegant, layered dessert centerpiece that screams celebration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once frosted, cover the cake tightly to keep it moist. Leftovers stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days, making it perfect for casual gatherings where you want to enjoy a few slices later.
Freezing
If you want to save the cake for longer, wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Frozen Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake Recipe slices can last up to two months and thaw beautifully without losing texture or flavor.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers warmed, bring the cake to room temperature, then microwave individual slices for about 10 to 15 seconds. This quick heat-up gives a fresh-from-the-oven feel that’s simply irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add delightful texture to both the cake and frosting, enhancing the overall peanut experience with bits of peanuts in every bite.
Is there a substitute for whole milk?
You can swap whole milk with buttermilk or a non-dairy milk like almond milk; however, whole milk contributes to that tender crumb and moistness that’s classic to this recipe.
Can this cake be made into cupcakes?
Yes! The batter works great for cupcakes. Just adjust the baking time to about 18–22 minutes and fill cupcake liners about two-thirds full for perfect individual treats.
How long does the peanut butter frosting stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the frosting stays fresh for up to one week. Bring it back to room temperature before spreading or serving.
Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?
Definitely! A handful of semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips folded into the batter adds delightful pockets of melty chocolate that beautifully complement the peanut butter flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake Recipe is one of those timeless desserts that feels like a warm hug in cake form. It’s easy enough to make any day of the week but impressive enough to serve at celebrations. Once you give it a try, I’m confident it will become a cherished staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine. Give it a go and prepare to be wowed by the creamy peanut butter goodness in every bite!
Print
Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cake is a rich and moist sheet cake featuring a perfect balance of creamy peanut butter and classic Southern flavors. Topped with a luscious peanut butter frosting, it’s a nostalgic dessert ideal for gatherings and cozy nights in.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Peanut Butter Frosting:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk (plus more as needed)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients and Beat: Add the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, and whole milk to the dry ingredients. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes smooth and combined.
- Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs and vanilla extract, then continue beating for another minute until the batter is light, fluffy, and well blended.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter and softened butter together until creamy and smooth.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Liquids: Gradually add the powdered sugar, then mix in the milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is smooth, fluffy, and spreadable. Add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Frost the Cake: Spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the cooled cake using a spatula or knife, smoothing it out for a beautiful finish.
Notes
- For a fun twist, top the frosted cake with chopped roasted peanuts or drizzle melted chocolate over the surface.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate to keep fresh longer.
