Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake Recipe

If you're a fan of the perfect combination of chocolate and peanut butter, then this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake is exactly what you need in your life. Rich, moist layers of chocolate cake filled with a smooth and creamy peanut butter frosting—it's a match made in dessert heaven! Whether you're making it for a birthday, holiday gathering, or just a special treat for yourself, this cake is sure to impress. Read on to learn all the delicious details on how to make this indulgent dessert.

What Is Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake?

A Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake is a layered dessert that combines the bold flavors of chocolate with the creaminess of peanut butter. The cake typically features multiple layers of moist chocolate cake, paired with a luscious peanut butter frosting. You can go the extra mile by adding a decadent chocolate ganache drizzle or even chocolate chips between the layers. The result is a delicious balance of sweet and salty, with a rich texture that melts in your mouth. This cake is ideal for any occasion and satisfies both chocolate and peanut butter lovers alike.

Ingredients List for Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake

Here’s a detailed list of everything you’ll need for both the cake and frosting:

Ingredients for the Chocolate Cake:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cake.
• 2 cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the cake stay moist.
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: The star ingredient for a rich chocolate flavor.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda: Works with the baking powder to ensure the cake has a soft texture.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Adds richness and structure to the cake.
• 1 cup whole milk: Provides moisture and a tender crumb.
• ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor.
• 1 cup boiling water: Helps to bloom the cocoa for an intense chocolate flavor.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Frosting:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Smooth and rich, the foundation for the frosting.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and makes the frosting creamy.
• 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream: Adjusts the consistency of the frosting for spreading.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the peanut butter flavor.

Optional Ganache Drizzle:

• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: For the chocolate ganache drizzle on top.
• ¼ cup heavy cream: To create a smooth, shiny ganache.

Substitutions and Variations

If you want to customize this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake to suit your preferences or dietary needs, here are some ideas:

• Flour: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Sugar: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener for a lower glycemic option.
• Milk: Dairy-free alternatives like almond milk or oat milk can be used in place of whole milk.
• Oil: Coconut oil can be substituted for vegetable oil to add a subtle coconut flavor.
• Peanut Butter: For those with peanut allergies, substitute with almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or cashew butter.
• Ganache: If you're feeling extra indulgent, you can add crushed peanut butter cups or chocolate chips between the layers for a delightful surprise.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to make this scrumptious Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake.

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together to ensure that everything is evenly combined.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on medium speed until everything is smooth.

Step 4: Add Boiling Water

Slowly stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but this is what gives the cake its moist texture.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Make Peanut Butter Frosting

Step 6: Cream the Peanut Butter and Butter

In a large mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter and softened butter together until light and fluffy.

Step 7: Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla

Gradually add the powdered sugar, ½ cup at a time, beating until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and continue mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 8: Adjust Consistency

If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired spreading consistency. You want it to be smooth and spreadable, but not runny.

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

Step 9: Layer the Cake

Once your cakes have completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter frosting over the top.

Step 10: Stack and Frost

Place the second cake layer on top, then frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining peanut butter frosting.

Step 11: Optional Chocolate Ganache Drizzle

For an added touch, you can make a chocolate ganache by melting the chocolate chips with heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir until smooth, then drizzle the ganache over the top of the cake for a finishing touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not properly measuring flour: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing too much flour into your measuring cup, which can result in a dense cake.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix the ingredients until just combined to avoid a tough cake.
• Not allowing the cake to cool completely: If the cake layers are still warm, the frosting will melt and become messy.
• Skipping the boiling water: It may seem unusual, but boiling water is crucial to achieving a moist, tender cake.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation matters, especially when you’re serving a cake as indulgent as this one. Here’s how to make your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake look as good as it tastes:

How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake

• Chill before serving: Chilling the cake for about 30 minutes before serving allows the frosting to set and makes slicing easier.
• Use a sharp knife: For clean, professional-looking slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it off between each cut.

Presentation Ideas for Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake

• Garnish with peanut butter cups: Mini or full-sized peanut butter cups can be arranged around the base or on top of the cake for a decorative and delicious touch.
• Chocolate shavings: Sprinkle some dark chocolate shavings on top for an elegant finish.
• Extra drizzle: Create a crisscross drizzle pattern with chocolate ganache for a polished, bakery-style look.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake Recipe Tips

• Make ahead: You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap to retain moisture. Frost just before serving.
• Room temperature ingredients: Use room-temperature eggs and butter to ensure a smooth batter and frosting.
• Add a crunch: For a fun twist, stir chopped peanuts or peanut butter cups into the frosting for added texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use natural peanut butter in the frosting?

It’s best to stick with creamy, processed peanut butter as natural peanut butter can be too oily and may not provide the same smooth texture in the frosting.

How do I store leftover cake?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Be sure to bring refrigerated slices to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes! You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before frosting and serving.

What’s the best way to ensure the cake is moist?

In addition to using boiling water in the batter, be careful not to overbake the cake. Start checking for doneness at the 30-minute mark to avoid drying it out.

Conclusion

There’s something absolutely irresistible about the combination of chocolate and peanut butter, and this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake brings those flavors together in the most delicious way. With moist chocolate layers and creamy peanut butter frosting, this cake is bound to be a hit at any gathering. Now that you know the ins and outs of making this dessert, it’s time to head into the kitchen and get baking! Don't wait—treat yourself and your loved ones to this decadent dessert today!

Print