Description
The Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake is a layered cake that combines the rich, deep flavor of chocolate with the creamy, nutty taste of peanut butter. It typically consists of a moist chocolate cake base, paired with a fluffy, creamy peanut butter frosting. To top it all off, a luscious chocolate ganache is poured over the layers for a beautiful and mouthwatering finish. This cake brings together two classic dessert flavors, making it the perfect treat for those who love both chocolate and peanut butter.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 ¾ cups sugar
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
For the Peanut Butter Frosting
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 oz dark chocolate, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the cake batter: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, combine buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually fold into the dry ingredients. Stir in hot water until smooth.
- Bake: Divide batter evenly between the cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
- Make the frosting: Beat peanut butter and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Prepare the ganache: Heat heavy cream until steaming, then pour over chopped chocolate. Stir until smooth and glossy.
- Assemble the cake: Spread peanut butter frosting between the cake layers and over the top and sides. Drizzle chocolate ganache over the cake.
- Garnish: Decorate with chopped peanuts or Reese’s peanut butter cups.
Notes
For an extra indulgent twist, top the cake with crushed peanuts, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This cake also pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days—if it lasts that long!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake Recipe