Irresistible Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake Recipe

Peanut butter chocolate layer cake is like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine biting into layers of moist chocolate cake, enveloped in creamy peanut butter frosting, with a drizzle of rich chocolate ganache that brings everything together. The combination of sweet and salty flavors dances on your palate, making it an unforgettable treat for any occasion.

This cake isn’t just dessert; it’s a celebration in itself! I remember the first time I baked this cake for my best friend’s birthday. The look on her face when she took that first bite was priceless—it was sheer bliss! Whether for birthdays, holidays, or just because it’s Tuesday, this peanut butter chocolate layer cake is sure to make your day feel special.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure, this flour gives the cake its light texture. Sift it to avoid lumps.

• Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for that deep chocolate flavor; it’s the heart of the cake.

• Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is key here! It balances the chocolate and enhances the overall flavor.

• Baking Powder: This helps the cake rise perfectly, ensuring a soft and fluffy texture with each slice.

• Baking Soda: A little extra lift for your cake; it works wonders when combined with acidic ingredients.

• Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.

• Eggs: They add moisture and richness while helping the cake hold together beautifully.

• Milk: Whole milk keeps the batter smooth and adds creaminess; feel free to use any type you prefer.

• Vegetable Oil: This will keep your cake moist and tender; nobody likes a dry cake!

• Vanilla Extract: A splash elevates the flavor profile by adding warmth and depth.

For the Frosting:

• Unsalted Butter: Make sure it’s softened! This creates a creamy base for your frosting.

• Powdered Sugar: This sweetens and thickens the frosting without grittiness; sift it for a smoother texture.

• Peanut Butter: Go for creamy peanut butter as it gives the frosting that irresistible nutty flavor we all love!

• Cream Cheese: Adds tanginess and richness to balance out the sweetness of the frosting perfectly.

For the Ganache:

• Heavy Cream: It creates that luscious consistency when poured over your layered masterpiece—richness at its finest!

• Chocolate Chips: Use semi-sweet or dark chips depending on how indulgent you want this dessert to be!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake

Bake the Cake Layers

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease and flour two round baking pans so they release easily post-bake. In a large bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. The aroma of cocoa should be exhilarating!

In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until frothy—this is where magic begins! Slowly pour this mixture into your dry ingredients while stirring gently to combine. Be careful not to overmix; we want a fluffy texture!

Divide your batter evenly between both pans. Bake them in your preheated oven for about thirty minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in their pans for ten minutes before transferring them onto wire racks—patience pays off here!

Prepare Your Frosting

While your cakes are cooling, let’s whip up that dreamy peanut butter frosting! In a mixing bowl, beat softened unsalted butter until creamy—around three minutes should do it! Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing; don’t forget to scrape down those sides!

Now add in both peanut butter and cream cheese until fully blended—get ready for some major mouthwatering moments! Adjust consistency with milk if needed; you want it spreadable but not runny.

Make That Ganache!

To create your decadent ganache, heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until just simmering—don’t boil it! Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips until melted completely; let sit for five minutes so it thickens slightly.

Assemble Your Masterpiece!

Once cooled completely, level off your cake layers using a serrated knife if needed—no one likes an uneven slice! Place one layer on your serving plate and spread half of that glorious peanut butter frosting generously on top.

Top with the second layer before slathering more frosting around those sides too (you can never have too much)! Finally drizzle ganache over everything like you’re creating edible art—garnish with extra chopped peanuts if desired.

And voila! You’ve successfully created an indulgent peanut butter chocolate layer cake that’ll impress anyone who lays eyes (and forks) on it.

Now go ahead: slice yourself a piece (or two), grab a glass of milk or coffee—and enjoy every single bite guilt-free because life is too short not to indulge once in awhile!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by baking your chocolate cake layers first. While they cool, whip up that irresistible peanut butter frosting. Assemble your cake when everything is at room temperature for the best results and least mess.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to get creative! Swap out some peanut butter for Nutella for a chocolate-hazelnut fusion, or add crushed peanuts on top for extra crunch. It’s your cake—make it sing!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. If you want to enjoy it warm, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to revive that deliciousness.

The first time I made this Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake was for my sister’s birthday. She took one bite and declared me the “Cake Wizard.” That title still makes me giggle!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake?

To make a delicious Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake, gather all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. You’ll also need eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, whole milk, vanilla extract, and creamy peanut butter. For the frosting, prepare powdered sugar, butter, and additional peanut butter. These simple ingredients come together to create a rich and flavorful cake that will impress anyone.

How do I store leftover Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake?

Storing your leftover Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake is easy. First, allow the cake to cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to retain its moisture. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to five days or at room temperature for two days. If you want to save it for later, consider freezing individual slices wrapped securely in freezer-safe packaging.

Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?

While you can use natural peanut butter in the Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake recipe, choose a smooth variety without added sugar or salt for the best results. Natural peanut butter may have a different consistency than conventional brands, so adjust other ingredients accordingly if necessary. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!

What are some variations of Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake?

You can customize your Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake in various ways! Consider adding chocolate chips to the batter or mixing in chopped nuts for extra texture. Another option is to incorporate layers of banana or caramel between the cake layers for added flavor. You could even experiment with different frostings like chocolate ganache or whipped cream to complement the flavors further.

Conclusion for Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake:

In summary, the Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake is a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate with creamy peanut butter. By using simple ingredients and following straightforward steps, you can create a dessert that satisfies any sweet tooth. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging yourself, this layered cake is sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every slice of this delectable dessert!

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Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake

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Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake is a decadent dessert that brings together moist chocolate cake layers and creamy peanut butter frosting, all topped with a luscious chocolate ganache. This cake is perfect for any celebration or simply as a sweet treat to indulge in. With its rich flavors and stunning appearance, it’s guaranteed to impress your family and friends!

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately eight slices 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round baking pans.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla until frothy. Gradually mix into dry ingredients until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans for ten minutes before transferring to wire racks.
5. For frosting: Beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar followed by peanut butter and cream cheese until smooth.
6. For ganache: Heat heavy cream until simmering then stir in chocolate chips until melted. Let sit to thicken slightly.
7. Level cooled cake layers if necessary. Spread half of the frosting on the first layer, top with the second layer, and frost the sides and top with remaining frosting. Drizzle ganache over the top.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: One slice (90g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 39g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: Experiment by adding chocolate chips to the batter or crushed peanuts as a topping for added texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days; reheat slices in the microwave for about ten seconds if desired.