Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake

The Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake is a delightful treat that brings together the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, family gathering, or just a weekday dessert. With its moist layers and creamy filling, you will surely impress your friends and family.

Why Make This Recipe

Why choose this Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake? It’s simple! First, you get the wonderful combination of chocolate and peanut butter, which is a favorite for many. Second, the layers of moist cake and creamy filling create a delicious texture that is hard to resist. Plus, making a layer cake from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, making it a more satisfying and enjoyable experience. Who can say no to a slice of this indulgent cake?

How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake

Making this cake is easy and fun! Just follow the steps below, and you’ll have a gorgeous dessert ready to share.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup heavy cream

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together.
Add the milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth. Then stir in boiling water; the batter will be thin.
Divide the batter evenly between the two pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. Allow the cakes to cool completely after baking.
For the filling, beat together the peanut butter and softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and heavy cream, mixing until fluffy.
To make the ganache, heat the cream until steaming, then pour it over the chocolate chips. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir until it is smooth.
Assemble the cake: Spread the peanut butter filling between the cooled cake layers. Pour ganache over the top of the cake and let it drip down the sides.
Slice and enjoy your delicious cake!

How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake

Serve this Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. You can also garnish it with chopped peanuts or chocolate shavings for added flair.

How to Store Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days. You can also freeze slices of the cake for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

Tips to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start.
Use a kitchen scale for measuring dry ingredients for better accuracy.
Don’t skip cooling the cakes completely before adding the filling and ganache, as this helps prevent melting.

Variation

You can try adding a layer of banana slices between the cake layers for a fun twist. Another option is to use dark chocolate or white chocolate for the ganache instead of semi-sweet chocolate.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?

Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but it may result in a different texture compared to creamy commercial peanut butter.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cakes ahead of time, and they will stay fresh for a few days in the fridge. Just add the filling and ganache before serving.