Michigan Maple Peanut Butter Sheet Cake

Michigan Maple Peanut Butter Sheet Cake combines the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the sweet, natural taste of maple syrup in a moist and fluffy sheet cake form. This dessert is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress with a not-so-ordinary cake. The combination of maple and peanut butter not only offers a twist on traditional flavors but also pays homage to Michigan’s renowned maple syrup production.

Ingredients Overview

Peanut Butter

• Why This Ingredient? Peanut butter provides a creamy texture and deep, nutty flavor that forms the base of the cake and frosting.
• Health Benefits: Rich in protein and healthy fats, peanut butter can help maintain energy levels and support heart health.

Maple Syrup

• Why This Ingredient? Maple syrup brings a touch of Michigan’s natural sweetness to the cake, enhancing the flavor with its unique, earthy sweetness.
• Health Benefits: Maple syrup contains antioxidants and minerals like zinc and manganese, which are beneficial for immune support and antioxidant protection.

Flour

• Why This Ingredient? All-purpose flour gives the cake its structure, ensuring it’s light and airy yet able to hold the rich toppings.
• Health Benefits: Provides essential carbohydrates and some forms of B vitamins, especially if using enriched flour.

Eggs

• Why This Ingredient? Eggs bind the ingredients together, providing moisture and helping the cake to rise properly.
• Health Benefits: Eggs are a great source of high-quality protein and contain several essential nutrients.

Substitutions

For those with specific dietary needs or preferences, consider these alternatives:

• Peanut Butter: For a nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter or soynut butter.
• Maple Syrup: Honey or agave syrup can be used as an alternative, though they will alter the flavor profile.
• Flour: A gluten-free flour blend can replace all-purpose flour for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Eggs: Flax eggs (flaxseed meal mixed with water) can be used as a vegan binding alternative.

Recipe

Yield: Serves 16

Ingredients with Measurements

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
• 1/2 cup Michigan maple syrup
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Frosting:

• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 6 tablespoons Michigan maple syrup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 3-4 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Prepare Cake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 15×10-inch baking sheet.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter with water, peanut butter, and maple syrup, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and pour over dry ingredients.
4. Add Eggs and Dairy: Mix in eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla until smooth.
5. Bake: Pour batter into the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Make Frosting: While the cake bakes, combine butter, peanut butter, maple syrup, and milk in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and gradually whisk in powdered sugar until smooth.
7. Finish: Pour warm frosting over the hot cake. Allow the cake to cool completely before serving.

Nutrition

Each serving approximately contains:

• Calories: 480
• Carbs: 65g
• Fats: 22g
• Protein: 6g

Storage Instructions

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Conclusion

Michigan Maple Peanut Butter Sheet Cake is a delightful dessert that marries the comforting flavors of peanut butter with the natural sweetness of maple syrup. This cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a nod to Michigan’s rich maple-producing heritage. Perfect for any occasion, this sheet cake is sure to be a hit.

FAQ

1. Can I make this cake in advance? Yes, this cake can be baked a day ahead and frosted on the day of serving to maintain freshness.
2. What can I serve with this cake? This cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.