Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake Recipe

If you're a fan of the irresistible combination of chocolate and peanut butter, this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake is going to be your new favorite indulgence. This cake features moist, rich layers of chocolate cake paired with a creamy, luscious peanut butter frosting. It’s perfect for special occasions, birthdays, or whenever you're craving something decadent. Whether you’re serving it with a tall glass of milk or a cup of coffee, every bite is packed with the bold flavors of chocolate and peanut butter. Keep reading for the complete recipe, as well as tips, substitutions, and presentation ideas!

What Is Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake?

A Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake is a layered dessert featuring rich chocolate cake filled and frosted with a smooth peanut butter buttercream. The result is a perfect balance between the intense richness of the chocolate and the creamy sweetness of peanut butter. For extra indulgence, some recipes include a chocolate ganache drizzle, chopped peanut butter cups, or a crunchy peanut topping. It’s an iconic combination that pleases both chocolate and peanut butter lovers alike!

Ingredients List for Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
• ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water or hot coffee (coffee intensifies the chocolate flavor)

For the Peanut Butter Frosting:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¼ cups creamy peanut butter
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream (for desired consistency)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache (Optional):

• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• Chopped peanut butter cups or crushed peanuts (optional, for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is flexible, and there are many ways to customize it to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some suggestions:

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Vegetable Oil: You can use melted butter, coconut oil, or another neutral oil in place of vegetable oil. Coconut oil will add a subtle tropical flavor, while butter adds richness.
• Milk: Use any milk you have on hand, including plant-based options like almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk.
• Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter is traditional for the frosting, but if you want more texture, you can use chunky peanut butter. For those with nut allergies, replace the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or almond butter.

Flavor Variations:

• Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cake: Fold chopped peanut butter cups into the frosting or sprinkle them between the cake layers for a more decadent version of the cake.
• Salted Peanut Butter Cake: Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the top of the frosted cake or incorporate it into the ganache for a salty-sweet experience.
• Peanut Butter Mousse Filling: For an even lighter texture, fold whipped cream into the peanut butter frosting to create a mousse-like filling between the cake layers.

Add-Ins:

• Chocolate Chips: Stir ½ cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter before baking for added chocolatey bursts.
• Peanuts: Add chopped roasted peanuts to the cake batter or sprinkle them over the frosting for extra crunch and texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake

Now, let’s dive into how to make this indulgent Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake step-by-step:

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Cake Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. You can also line the bottoms with parchment paper for easier release.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Add Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on medium speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure the cake stays light and fluffy.

5. Add Boiling Water or Hot Coffee

Slowly stir in the boiling water or hot coffee. The batter will be thin, but this is normal! The hot liquid helps to "bloom" the cocoa, making the chocolate flavor even richer.

6. Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Make Peanut Butter Frosting

While your cakes are cooling, prepare the luscious peanut butter frosting.

1. Beat the Butter and Peanut Butter

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and peanut butter together on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.

2. Add Powdered Sugar

Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until combined. Add the salt and vanilla extract.

3. Adjust Consistency

If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency—smooth, creamy, and spreadable.

4. Whip the Frosting

Increase the speed to medium-high and beat for an additional 2-3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.

How to Assemble and Frost the Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake

1. Level the Cake Layers

Once the cakes have cooled completely, use a serrated knife to level the tops if necessary. This will ensure the layers stack evenly.

2. Frost the Cake Layers

Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter frosting on top. Add the second cake layer and press down gently.

3. Frost the Top and Sides

Using an offset spatula, frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining peanut butter frosting, smoothing it out for a clean finish or leaving it more rustic with swirls.

4. Add Ganache Drizzle (Optional)

If you’re making the chocolate ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan or microwave until steaming (but not boiling). Pour it over the chocolate chips in a bowl, letting it sit for 2 minutes before whisking until smooth. Allow the ganache to cool slightly, then drizzle it over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides.

5. Decorate with Toppings

For extra decoration, sprinkle chopped peanut butter cups or crushed peanuts over the ganache while it’s still wet.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overbaking the Cake: Keep a close eye on the cake in the final minutes of baking. Overbaking will dry out the cake. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
• Not Leveling the Cake Layers: If your cake layers dome in the oven, level them with a serrated knife to ensure an even, stable cake when stacked.
• Melting the Frosting: Make sure the cake is completely cool before frosting. If the cake is warm, the peanut butter frosting will melt and slide off.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake

• With Milk: A cold glass of milk is the perfect accompaniment to this rich, indulgent cake.
• With Coffee: Serve each slice with a cup of coffee or espresso to enhance the cake's deep chocolate flavor.
• As Cupcakes: You can make this recipe as cupcakes for individual servings. Adjust the baking time to 18-20 minutes and pipe the peanut butter frosting on top.

Presentation Ideas for Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake

• Drip Cake: Pour chocolate ganache over the cake and let it drip down the sides for an elegant "drip cake" look.
• Peanut Butter Swirls: Use a piping bag to swirl extra frosting on top of the cake for a decorative finish.
• Candy Topping: Decorate the top of the cake with chopped peanut butter cups, Reese’s Pieces, or chocolate shavings for an extra fun, festive look.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake Recipe Tips

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the eggs, butter, and milk are at room temperature before starting the recipe. This helps the ingredients combine more smoothly and ensures an even texture.
• Hot Coffee for Richer Flavor: If using coffee in the batter, make sure it’s freshly brewed and hot. Coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.
• Chill Before Slicing: For clean, neat slices, chill the cake for about 30 minutes before slicing. This firms up the frosting, making it easier to cut.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes! You can bake the cake layers up to 2 days in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature. The frosting can also be made ahead and refrigerated. Bring it to room temperature and re-whip before using.

Can I freeze Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake?

Absolutely! Freeze the unfrosted cake layers by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting and assembling. Frosted cake can also be frozen in slices, just be sure to wrap them well.

How long does this cake last?

Stored in an airtight container, this cake will last for 4-5 days in the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften the frosting.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure.

What type of peanut butter should I use?

Creamy peanut butter is recommended for a smooth frosting, but if you like texture, feel free to use crunchy peanut butter. Avoid using natural peanut butter (the kind that separates), as it can make the frosting too oily.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the iconic pairing of chocolate and peanut butter. With its moist chocolate layers, creamy peanut butter frosting, and optional ganache topping, it’s a cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just satisfying a craving, this cake is guaranteed to impress. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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