Introduction
If you are a fan of rich, decadent flavors, then the Homemade Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake is a must-try dessert. This cake combines the indulgent taste of chocolate with the creamy, nutty goodness of peanut butter, creating a harmonious blend that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Perfect for celebrations or simply as a treat for yourself, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the cake:
– All-purpose flour: 1 ¾ cups
– Unsweetened cocoa powder: ¾ cup
– Granulated sugar: 2 cups
– Baking powder: 1 ½ teaspoons
– Baking soda: 1 ½ teaspoons
– Salt: 1 teaspoon
– Eggs: 2 large
– Milk: 1 cup
– Vegetable oil: ½ cup
– Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
– Boiling water: 1 cup
For the peanut butter frosting:
– Creamy peanut butter: 1 cup
– Butter: 1 cup (softened)
– Powdered sugar: 3 cups
– Milk: 2 tablespoons
– Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Prep Time
The preparation time for this delightful cake is approximately 20 minutes. This includes gathering all of your ingredients and mixing them to create the batter.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cake will require about 30 to 35 minutes to bake in the oven. Overall, the total time from start to finish, including prep and cooking, is around 1 hour. This recipe typically yields 12 servings, making it perfect for gatherings or special occasions. Enjoy the sweet, delightful combination of chocolate and peanut butter in every bite!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure that your oven is properly heated before baking for the best results.
Step 2: Prepare Cake Pans
Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for easier removal later.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars
In another bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 6: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 7: Divide Batter
Evenly divide the batter between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
Step 8: Bake the Cakes
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Make Peanut Butter Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk, mixing until creamy and spreadable.
Step 11: Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of peanut butter frosting on top. Place the second layer over the frosting and cover the entire cake with the remaining peanut butter frosting.
Step 12: Decorate (Optional)
You may choose to decorate the cake with chocolate shavings, chopped peanuts, or drizzles of melted chocolate as desired.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This cake is best served at room temperature and pairs well with a glass of milk or coffee.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Freezing Instructions
The cake can be frozen for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Substitutions
You can substitute almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile, or use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of the cake.
Cook techniques
Mixing Ingredients
Using a stand mixer or hand mixer ensures that the butter and sugar are properly creamed together, resulting in a light and fluffy batter.
Baking
Preheat the oven to the correct temperature before placing the cake inside to ensure even cooking and rising of the cake.
Cooling the Cake
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents the cake from becoming soggy.
Frosting Application
Ensure the cake is completely cooled before applying the frosting to avoid melting and sliding.
Decoration
Use a spatula or an offset knife for smooth and even frosting, and consider topping the cake with crushed peanuts for added texture.
FAQ
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will give the cake a different texture and added crunch.
How can I make the cake gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring that other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What type of cocoa powder should I use?
Unsweetened cocoa powder is recommended for the best flavor balance in the cake.
Can I store leftover cake?
Yes, store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
How do I make the frosting thicker?
To make the frosting thicker, add more powdered sugar gradually until the desired consistency is reached.
Conclusion
This homemade chocolate peanut butter cake is a delightful treat that perfectly combines the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter. Its moist texture and creamy frosting make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just satisfying a sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes
Transform the cake into individual servings with chocolate peanut butter cupcakes topped with creamy frosting and mini peanut butter cups for extra indulgence.
Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Enhance your baking repertoire with a moist banana bread recipe that incorporates peanut butter for added flavor and richness.
Chocolate Swirl Cheesecake
Try a chocolate swirl cheesecake that combines the creamy texture of cheesecake with the delicious flavors of chocolate and peanut butter.
Peanut Butter Cookies
Pair your cake with classic peanut butter cookies, offering a crunchy contrast to the soft cake, perfect for a dessert platter.
Chocolate Fondue with Fruit and Pretzels
Create a fun dessert experience with a chocolate fondue pot served with fresh fruits and pretzels for dipping, complementing the flavors of the cake.