Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
Chocolate and peanut butter are a match made in dessert heaven! This Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake combines rich chocolate flavor with creamy peanut butter for a delightfully indulgent treat. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet tooth craving, this cake is sure to impress family and friends.
Why make this recipe?
If you love chocolate and peanut butter, this cake is a must-try! It’s easy to prepare and features a moist chocolate base topped with a creamy peanut butter frosting. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, you’ll love the hands-on process of creating this delicious dessert. Plus, it’s great for any occasion, and you can customize it to your liking!
How to prepare Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
Ingredients:
- 🥄 1.5 cups (190 g) flour
- 🍫 3/4 cup (75 g) cocoa powder
- 🍬 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 🥄 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 🥄 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 🧂 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 🛢️ 3/4 cup (180 ml) vegetable oil
- 🥛 3/4 cup (180 ml) warm milk
- 🥚 3 large eggs
- 🌱 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 🧈 200 g butter (at room temperature)
- 🧀 1 cup (250 g) cream cheese
- 🥜 1 cup (250 g) peanut butter
- 🍬 2–2.5 cups powdered sugar
- 🌱 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 🍫 Grated chocolate or chocolate sauce (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the vegetable oil, warm milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cakes cool, beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Gradually add the peanut butter and mix well.
- Slowly add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until you achieve a creamy frosting consistency.
- Once the cakes are cooled, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer, then place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
- For extra flair, decorate with grated chocolate or drizzle chocolate sauce over the top.
How to serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
Slice the cake into generous pieces and serve! This rich cake pairs wonderfully with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. It’s delicious as a standalone treat, or you can enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert.
How to store Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake if you want to enjoy it later; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Tips for preparing Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Don’t overmix the cake batter; mix just until combined to keep the cake tender.
- Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting the icing.
- Customize your frosting by adding more peanut butter or even a hint of chocolate for unique flavor twists.
Variations
- For a nutty crunch, add chopped peanuts to the frosting or sprinkle some on top.
- Swap the chocolate cake with a vanilla base for a different flavor experience.
- Add layers of raspberry or strawberry jam between the cake layers for a fruity twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use natural peanut butter for the frosting?
Yes! Just make sure it’s well-mixed and not too runny, as this could change the consistency of your frosting.
2. How can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure that the blend also contains a binding agent.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day or two in advance, just store them wrapped tightly at room temperature until you’re ready to frost and serve.
Enjoy your chocolatey, peanut buttery creation! 🍰🥜🍫