Indulging in a slice of Decadent Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake is like stepping into a world of rich flavors and comforting textures. This cake brings together the lusciousness of chocolate and the creamy, nutty essence of peanut butter, making it a perfect choice for celebrations or a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re a chocolate lover, a peanut butter aficionado, or both, this cake promises to satisfy your cravings with every bite.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake Layers:
2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup hot water
For the Peanut Butter Frosting:
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream (or more as needed)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup heavy cream
For Garnish (Optional):
Chopped peanut butter cups
Crushed peanuts
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them to prevent the cake from sticking.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cake Layers
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat these ingredients until smooth and well combined. Gradually add the buttermilk to the mixture, stirring well. Finally, incorporate the dry ingredients gradually, mixing until just combined. Add the hot water to the batter; it will be thin, but that’s normal.
Step 3: Bake the Cakes
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Peanut Butter Frosting
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the creamy peanut butter and softened butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add more cream a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 5: Make the Chocolate Ganache
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to steam, but avoid boiling it. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes to soften the chocolate, then stir until smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before using.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
Place one layer of the cooled chocolate cake on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter frosting on top. Gently place the second cake layer on top of the frosted layer. Use the remaining frosting to coat the sides and top of the cake evenly.
Step 7: Add the Ganache Drizzle
Once the frosting is complete, pour the cooled chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drizzle down the sides for a beautiful and decadent finish.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
For an added touch, garnish the top of the cake with chopped peanut butter cups or crushed peanuts. Slice the cake and serve to your guests or enjoy it yourself!
Cooking Note
For a fun twist, consider swirling some peanut butter into the chocolate ganache before drizzling it over the cake. This not only adds flavor but also creates a visually appealing marbled effect.
Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For beverages, consider serving it alongside a glass of cold milk or a rich cup of coffee to balance the sweetness.
Tips
Storage: Store leftover cake in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Make Ahead: The cake layers can be baked a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Frosting can also be made in advance; just re-whip before using.
Prep Time : 30 minutes
Cooking Time : 30 minutes
Total Time : 1 hour
Nutritional Information
Calories: 550 per slice
Protein: 8g
Sodium: 200mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use natural peanut butter for the frosting?
A: Yes, but natural peanut butter may result in a slightly different texture. It might be less creamy and could require additional cream to achieve the desired consistency.
Q: How should I store the cake?
A: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best served at room temperature, so allow it to sit out for a bit before serving.
Q: Can I freeze the cake?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to three months. Frost the cake after thawing for the best results.
Conclusion
The Decadent Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that will impress your family and friends. With its rich chocolate layers, creamy peanut butter frosting, and glossy ganache, this cake is a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or simply indulging yourself, this cake is sure to leave everyone wanting more. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the process of creating this stunning and delicious masterpiece!
Print
Decadent Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake 🍫🥜
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake Layers:
2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup hot water
For the Peanut Butter Frosting:
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream (or more as needed)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup heavy cream
For Garnish (Optional):
Chopped peanut butter cups
Crushed peanuts
Instructions
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them to prevent the cake from sticking.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cake Layers
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat these ingredients until smooth and well combined. Gradually add the buttermilk to the mixture, stirring well. Finally, incorporate the dry ingredients gradually, mixing until just combined. Add the hot water to the batter; it will be thin, but that’s normal.
Step 3: Bake the Cakes
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Peanut Butter Frosting
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the creamy peanut butter and softened butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add more cream a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 5: Make the Chocolate Ganache
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to steam, but avoid boiling it. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes to soften the chocolate, then stir until smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before using.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
Place one layer of the cooled chocolate cake on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter frosting on top. Gently place the second cake layer on top of the frosted layer. Use the remaining frosting to coat the sides and top of the cake evenly.
Step 7: Add the Ganache Drizzle
Once the frosting is complete, pour the cooled chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drizzle down the sides for a beautiful and decadent finish.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
For an added touch, garnish the top of the cake with chopped peanut butter cups or crushed peanuts. Slice the cake and serve to your guests or enjoy it yourself!
Notes
Cooking Note
For a fun twist, consider swirling some peanut butter into the chocolate ganache before drizzling it over the cake. This not only adds flavor but also creates a visually appealing marbled effect.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 550 per slice
- Sodium: 200mg
- Protein: 8g