Decadent Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake Recipe

There’s something magical about a Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake. Imagine layers of rich chocolate cake, slathered with creamy peanut butter frosting, and topped with a glossy chocolate ganache. Each bite is a delightful dance of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds sing. Whether it’s a birthday bash or just a Tuesday that needs brightening, this cake is like the superhero of desserts – swooping in to save the day.

Growing up, my mom always made this cake for special occasions. It became a family tradition that brought everyone together around the dining room table, forks at the ready and smiles on our faces. The aroma of baked chocolate mixed with the nutty scent of peanut butter fills the air, promising an unforgettable experience. If you’re ready to indulge in this sweet nostalgia, grab your apron and let’s get baking!

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake

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

• All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of your cake; sift it well to avoid lumps.

• Cocoa Powder: Choose high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor.

• Granulated Sugar: Regular sugar will sweeten your cake perfectly; consider using brown sugar for added moisture.

• Baking Powder: Essential for helping your cake rise; ensure it’s fresh for best results.

• Baking Soda: Works with the cocoa to enhance flavor and texture; check expiration dates!

• Salt: A pinch enhances all flavors; don’t skip it!

• Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature for better incorporation into your batter.

• Buttermilk: Adds moisture; if you don’t have buttermilk, use milk with a splash of vinegar instead.

• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist; feel free to substitute with melted coconut oil if desired.

• Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds depth to your cake’s flavor profile.

• Powdered Sugar: Necessary for making your creamy peanut butter frosting perfectly sweet and spreadable.

• Peanut Butter: Use creamy peanut butter for frosting that spreads easily; chunky can add fun texture!

• Heavy Cream: This will help create a luscious ganache topping; opt for high-fat cream for best results.

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

How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake

Bake the Chocolate Cake Layers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two round cake pans with cooking spray or butter. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. In another bowl, mix eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla until smooth. Combine wet and dry ingredients gently until just mixed – no one likes overworked cake batter!

Pour equal amounts of batter into each prepared pan and bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool in pans for about ten minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely. You want those cakes cool enough so they don’t melt your frosting into a puddle.

Prepare the Peanut Butter Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened butter and peanut butter until creamy and fluffy – about three minutes should do it! Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed until incorporated fully. Pour in milk gradually until you reach desired spreading consistency; remember that nobody wants frosting that’s too stiff or drippy! Taste test here – you might want to sneak a spoonful!

Create the Ganache Topping

For the ganache topping that dreams are made of, heat heavy cream just until it simmers but doesn’t boil then pour it over chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for five minutes before stirring gently until smooth and shiny – like magic! Allow it to cool slightly before drizzling over assembled layers.

Assemble Your Masterpiece!

Once cooled completely, level off the tops of each chocolate layer if needed using a serrated knife – let’s keep things even here! Place one layer on your serving plate and generously spread half of the peanut butter frosting on top. Add the second layer on top and repeat with remaining frosting on top and sides.

Finish by drizzling that luscious ganache over everything like it’s going out of style! Decorate with chopped peanuts or chocolate shavings if you’re feeling fancy. Cut yourself a generous slice because you deserve it after all that hard work!

And there you have it: Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake – an epic dessert adventure packed with delightfully rich flavors sure to impress anyone lucky enough to snag a piece! Happy baking!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by baking the cakes first to allow them to cool before frosting. While they cool, whip up the peanut butter frosting and chocolate ganache for a smooth assembly. Finally, layer everything like a pro for maximum flavor and visual appeal.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out creamy peanut butter for crunchy if you like some texture. Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for that gourmet touch or throw in some chopped nuts between the layers for an extra crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to reheat, simply pop a slice in the microwave for about 10 seconds—just enough to warm it without melting that glorious frosting.

I once made this cake for my friend’s birthday, and let’s just say they nearly cried tears of joy when they took their first bite! It was a hit, and I might’ve even won “Best Baker” of the year… at least in my friend group!

FAQs:

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

To make a delicious Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake, you will need flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and sugar for the cake base. The peanut butter frosting requires creamy peanut butter, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Additionally, gather eggs and milk to enhance the cake’s texture. Make sure to use high-quality chocolate for a richer flavor. This combination of ingredients creates a moist cake layered with smooth peanut butter frosting that everyone will love.

How long does it take to bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake?

Baking Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake typically takes about 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). After mixing your batter and pouring it into prepared cake pans, pop them in the oven. Keep an eye on them; you can perform the toothpick test to check doneness. Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, your cake is done. Cooling time should also be considered before frosting.

Can I make Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can certainly prepare your Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake ahead of time. Bake the cake layers in advance and cool them completely. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for longer storage. When ready to serve, simply thaw if frozen and frosts your layers with peanut butter frosting. This makes it convenient for parties or special occasions.

How should I store leftover Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake?

To keep your leftover Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to extend its shelf life, refrigerate it where it can last for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave.

Conclusion for Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake:

In summary, creating a delightful Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake involves simple yet rich ingredients that blend perfectly together. Baking this cake is straightforward; just ensure adequate cooling time before applying your creamy frosting. Whether you make it ahead of time or enjoy it fresh from the oven, this dessert will surely impress friends and family alike. Its combination of chocolatey goodness and peanut butter richness makes it an unforgettable treat perfect for any occasion!

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Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x

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Description

Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake is an indulgent dessert that combines luscious layers of rich chocolate cake with creamy peanut butter frosting and a decadent chocolate ganache. This delightful cake is perfect for celebrations, making it the centerpiece of any gathering. Its harmonious blend of flavors and textures will have your guests raving, while its stunning appearance will leave everyone eager for a slice. Get ready to create a memorable treat that satisfies both chocolate and peanut butter cravings in every bite.

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Ingredients

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• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup cocoa powder
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (for frosting)
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• ½ cup heavy cream (for ganache)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla until smooth. Combine wet and dry ingredients gently until just mixed.
4. Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Cool cakes in pans for ten minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
6. For frosting, beat together softened butter and peanut butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk to achieve desired consistency.
7. For ganache, heat cream until just simmering; pour over chopped chocolate, let sit for five minutes then stir until smooth.
8. Assemble by leveling cakes if needed; spread frosting between layers and on top/sides of the cake. Drizzle ganache over top.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 42g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: <0g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 40mg