Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake Recipe

If you're a fan of decadent desserts, you’re in for a treat with this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake recipe! Imagine layers of moist chocolate cake paired with creamy peanut butter frosting, topped with a drizzle of melted chocolate or a dusting of crushed peanuts. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a sweet craving. Read on for a step-by-step guide to creating this irresistible dessert, and be sure to follow the entire recipe for pro tips, serving suggestions, and common mistakes to avoid!

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What is a Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake?

A Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the combination of rich chocolate and smooth peanut butter. This cake typically features layers of chocolate cake separated by creamy peanut butter frosting. The cake itself is soft and moist, while the frosting adds a balance of sweetness and a nutty richness. In some recipes, the cake may also include a peanut butter swirl or be topped with chocolate ganache for an extra indulgent touch.

Ingredients List for Chocolate Cake

To make the chocolate cake layers, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed for deeper flavor)
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, room temperature
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil (or any neutral-flavored oil)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) boiling water or hot coffee (the coffee enhances the chocolate flavor)

These ingredients will give you two layers of rich, moist chocolate cake that provide the base for your peanut butter frosting. The use of hot water or coffee helps to bloom the cocoa powder, making the chocolate flavor more pronounced.

Ingredients List for Peanut Butter Frosting

For the decadent peanut butter frosting, you'll need the following:

• 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter (not the natural kind, as it may separate)
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream or whole milk (to adjust the frosting's consistency)
• Pinch of salt (optional, to balance sweetness)

This frosting is thick, creamy, and packed with peanut butter flavor. The heavy cream will help smooth the frosting, ensuring it's spreadable and not too thick for the cake layers.

Substitutions and Variations

Not everyone has the exact ingredients on hand or might want to modify the recipe based on dietary needs or personal preferences. Here are some substitutions and variations:

• Flour: You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour if you need a gluten-free version.
• Cocoa Powder: If you can’t find Dutch-processed cocoa powder, regular cocoa powder will work, though the flavor may be slightly less intense.
• Sugar: You can replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute, though it may slightly alter the texture.
• Milk: For a dairy-free option, use almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk.
• Butter: To make the recipe dairy-free, swap out butter for a plant-based alternative like vegan margarine.
• Peanut Butter: For a more intense peanut flavor, use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy. If you have a peanut allergy, almond butter or sunflower seed butter can be great alternatives.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cakes later.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Slowly pour in the boiling water or hot coffee while whisking. The batter will be thin, but that's what makes the cake moist.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Stir just until combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the cake dense.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 6: Prepare the Peanut Butter Frosting

While the cakes cool, make the frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the peanut butter and softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat on low speed. Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.

How to Cook Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes have fully cooled, place one layer on a cake stand or serving plate. Spread a generous amount of peanut butter frosting over the top.
2. Stack and Frost: Place the second cake layer on top and press down gently to adhere the layers. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining peanut butter frosting.
3. Decorate: Optionally, drizzle melted chocolate over the top or sprinkle with chopped peanuts for added texture and flavor.
4. Chill: For easier slicing, refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-mixing the Batter: Over-mixing can make your cake dense and heavy instead of light and fluffy.
• Using Natural Peanut Butter: Avoid using natural peanut butter for the frosting, as the oils tend to separate and result in a grainy texture.
• Skipping the Coffee or Hot Water: The hot liquid helps bloom the cocoa and intensify the chocolate flavor. Don’t skip this step!
• Not Letting the Cake Cool Completely: If you frost a warm cake, the frosting will melt and become runny.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation plays a big role in elevating your dessert game, and this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake is no exception. Here are some tips to make your cake look as good as it tastes:

• Clean Slices: Use a long, sharp knife dipped in hot water to slice the cake. Clean the knife between cuts to ensure neat slices.
• Drizzled Chocolate: Melt some dark or milk chocolate and drizzle it over the top of the frosted cake for a show-stopping finish.
• Peanut Garnish: Sprinkle crushed peanuts or mini peanut butter cups on top of the cake for a fun and thematic decoration.

How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake is best served at room temperature. If you’ve refrigerated the cake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to soften the frosting and cake layers. You can serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of cold milk for a classic pairing.

Presentation Ideas for Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake

• Layered Look: After slicing, showcase the beautiful layers of the chocolate cake and peanut butter frosting by placing each slice upright on the plate.
• Cake Stand: Use a decorative cake stand to present the whole cake at your next gathering. A tiered stand with other treats can create a beautiful dessert table.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake Recipe Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature eggs and milk to ensure even mixing and a smooth batter.
• Adjust Frosting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet frosting, reduce the amount of powdered sugar slightly and adjust the cream accordingly.
• Double Up: For a taller, more dramatic cake, double the recipe and create four layers instead of two.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. The frosting can also be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

2. How long will this cake last?

Stored in an airtight container, the cake will last for up to 3 days at room temperature or 5 days in the refrigerator.

3. Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, the cake layers can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before assembling.

4. What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

A hand mixer or even a whisk will work to combine the ingredients, though it may take a little more effort.

5. Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds a bit of texture and a stronger peanut flavor to the frosting.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake recipe is perfect for any occasion where you want to impress friends and family with a decadent, delicious dessert. With its moist chocolate layers and creamy peanut butter frosting, it’s a combination that’s hard to resist. Follow the recipe step-by-step for best results, and don’t forget to try out some of the substitutions and variations to make it your own! Happy baking!

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