If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert that delivers rich flavor, nostalgic vibes, and sheet pan convenience, then look no further. This Peanut Butter Texas Sheet Cake is everything a cake should be: moist, soft, and slathered in a creamy peanut butter icing that’s cooked to perfection and poured while warm. Whether you’re serving it at a potluck, church gathering, holiday table, or simply a Tuesday night, this recipe brings big flavor and big portions—just like any Texas-style dessert should.

A twist on the classic chocolate Texas sheet cake, this peanut butter version swaps out cocoa for creamy peanut butter, creating a buttery, nutty cake base topped with an old-fashioned cooked icing that will have everyone going back for seconds.

💫 Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Sheet Cake

Easy to make: One bowl and one saucepan get the job done.
Feeds a crowd: Made in a 15″x10″ jelly-roll pan, it’s perfect for potlucks and parties.
Ultra-moist texture: The hot peanut butter mixture poured into the dry ingredients ensures a soft crumb.
Homemade icing: Warm, pourable icing is both decadent and comforting.
Classic Southern charm: This cake is simple, sweet, and satisfying—just like grandma used to make.

🧾 Ingredient Breakdown

Let’s go over what you’ll need and how each ingredient contributes to the final masterpiece:

🧁 For the Cake:

All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – Provides structure and softness.
Granulated Sugar (2 cups) – Sweetens and helps create a tender texture.
Baking Soda (½ tsp) – Adds lightness and helps the cake rise evenly.
Salt (1 tsp) – Balances sweetness and deepens flavor.
Butter (1 cup) – Adds richness and flavor while keeping the crumb moist.
Water (1 cup) – Helps dissolve and blend the peanut butter mixture.
Creamy Peanut Butter (¼ cup) – The star of the show! Brings that classic peanut flavor without chunks.
Eggs (2, beaten) – Provide structure and stability to the batter.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Adds a sweet, aromatic depth.
Buttermilk (½ cup) – The secret to an extra-tender cake with slight tang.

🥣 For the Peanut Butter Icing:

Butter (½ cup) – Forms the base of the icing, rich and luscious.
Creamy Peanut Butter (¼ cup) – Adds flavor and creaminess.
Milk (⅓ cup + 1 tbsp) – Makes the icing smooth and spreadable.
Powdered Sugar (16 oz. package) – Sweetens and thickens the icing.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Adds warmth and depth to balance the sweetness.

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step: How to Make Peanut Butter Texas Sheet Cake

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 15″x10″ jelly-roll pan or rimmed sheet pan.

In a large bowl, mix together:

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups sugar
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
Set aside.

Step 2: Heat the Peanut Butter Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine:

1 cup butter
1 cup water
¼ cup creamy peanut butter

Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Immediately pour the hot mixture into your bowl of dry ingredients and stir until fully combined.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together:

2 beaten eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup buttermilk

Add this to the peanut butter batter and stir until smooth.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 to 28 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched in the center.

Tip: Check doneness with a toothpick—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 5: Make the Icing

Start this about 5 minutes before the cake is done.

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine:

½ cup butter
¼ cup creamy peanut butter
⅓ cup + 1 tablespoon milk

Bring to a boil, then remove from heat.

Stir in:

1 (16 oz.) package powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Whisk until smooth and pourable. If needed, add a splash more milk to adjust consistency.

Step 6: Ice the Cake

Immediately pour the warm icing over the warm cake and spread it quickly and evenly.

Optional Garnish Ideas: Chopped peanuts, crushed pretzels, or mini chocolate chips for a fun finish.

Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing into squares and serving.

🍽 Serving Tips

Serve warm for a melty icing experience
Chill and slice for neat squares at potlucks or parties
Pair with cold milk, coffee, or sweet tea for the perfect bite

This cake also travels well, making it great for sharing.

❄️ Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days—just bring to room temp before serving.
Freezing: Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave gently.

🔁 Variations to Try

Chocolate Peanut Butter Version: Add ½ cup cocoa powder to the cake batter and icing.
Nutty Crunch: Fold ½ cup chopped roasted peanuts into the batter or sprinkle on top.
Peanut Butter Banana Sheet Cake: Add 1 mashed banana for a fruity twist.
Reese’s® Inspired: Top with mini peanut butter cups just before serving.

💬 Final Thoughts

There’s something nostalgic and deeply satisfying about a dessert that doesn’t rely on frills—just rich flavor, easy steps, and a whole lot of love. This Peanut Butter Texas Sheet Cake is one of those desserts that tastes like home, comfort in cake form.

So if you’re a peanut butter fan—or simply looking for a foolproof dessert that feeds a crowd—bookmark this recipe. You’ll return to it again and again!