Chocolate Peanut Butter Sheet Cake
Is there anything more comforting than the rich combination of chocolate and peanut butter in a soft, moist sheet cake? This chocolate peanut butter sheet cake is a crowd-pleaser that brings together two beloved flavors in a simple yet irresistible dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option, substitute with almond flour or a gluten-free blend
- 2 cups granulated sugar or coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free version
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup butter or vegan butter for a dairy-free alternative
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder use Dutch-process for a richer flavor
- 1/2 cup buttermilk or a mixture of 1/2 cup milk + 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 eggs or flax eggs for a vegan version
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter natural or conventional, but avoid the oil-separated kind for easier mixing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and baking soda until well combined.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the water and cocoa powder, stirring until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Pour the hot cocoa mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until all the flour is fully incorporated and the batter is smooth.
- Add the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the batter. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined and the batter is glossy.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Place the peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for about 20-30 seconds until slightly melted and easy to drizzle.
- Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter over the cake batter, then use a knife to gently swirl it into the chocolate batter for a marbled effect.
- 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 before slicing into squares and serving.
Notes
Tip: For extra richness, warm a slice for 10 seconds in the microwave before serving. The peanut butter swirl will become even more gooey and delicious.