There’s an undeniable thrill that comes when two classic flavors collide in the most delicious way. Picture this: a rich, moist cake infused with the deep essence of chocolate, generously smothered in a light and fluffy peanut butter frosting. It’s a taste explosion waiting to happen! This Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake isn’t just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering, effortlessly serving up to 25 delighted guests.
After a long week, I found myself yearning for something indulgent yet comforting to share with friends. That’s when I decided to whip up this cake, rooted in nostalgia but with a flair that makes it feel perfectly suited for any occasion. This recipe balances flavors expertly, giving you that sweet-savory punch that chocolate and peanut butter lovers crave. So, let’s get ready to bake a cloud of chocolatey goodness that fills your kitchen with warmth and laughter, and leaves everyone asking for seconds!
Why is Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake so irresistible?
Unforgettable Flavor Combination: The blend of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter creates an explosion of taste that you’ll crave again and again.
Perfect for Gatherings: Designed to serve a crowd of 20-25, this cake is an impressive centerpiece you’ll be proud to present.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, even novice bakers can achieve bakery-worthy results.
Endless Customization: Want it gluten-free or vegan? No problem! This versatile recipe allows plenty of room for adaptations.
A Crowd-Pleaser: Sweet, savory, and utterly delicious, expect compliments from friends and family with every slice!
This Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake is a delightful way to elevate any gathering while keeping the essence of comfort food alive. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s bake something extraordinary!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake Ingredients
• Here’s what you need to bake this indulgent treat!
For the Cake
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; stick with plain for the best crumb.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Packs flavor; regular cocoa is ideal for this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake.
- Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise; you can replace it with baking soda if needed.
- Baking Soda – Supports leavening for fluffy layers alongside baking powder.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake; caster sugar is a fine substitute if you prefer.
- Cooking/Kosher Salt – Enhances chocolate flavor; adjust based on the type of salt used.
- Large Eggs – Bind ingredients and add moisture; no need for temperature adjustments thanks to boiling water in the batter.
- Milk – Ensures moisture; both low-fat and non-dairy options work well.
- Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake moist longer; any neutral oil will do the trick.
- Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor profile; no substitutes necessary here.
- Instant Coffee Powder (Optional) – Intensifies chocolate flavor without being noticeable; dissolve before use.
- Boiling Water – Hydrates and deepens cocoa flavor for a rich, indulgent cake.
For the Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting
- Unsalted Butter – A creamy base for frosting; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy blending.
- Soft Icing Sugar (Powdered Sugar) – Sweetens and adds structure; sift before use to avoid lumps.
- Smooth Peanut Butter – Adds flavor and texture; sweetened spreads work best for this frosting.
- Pinch of Salt – Enhances the overall sweetness in frosting.
- Milk – Adjusts consistency for easy spreading over the cake.
For Toppings (Optional but Recommended)
- Chocolate Chips or Melts – Ideal for drizzling; go for semi-sweet or dark chocolate for maximum indulgence.
- Cream – Thin down the chocolate for a beautiful drizzle.
- Mini Reece’s Peanut Butter Cups – Add as a fun decoration and flavor boost.
- Chopped Peanuts – Sprinkle for crunch and visual appeal.
Now that you’re equipped with all these delightful ingredients, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and dive into the joy of baking!
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
-
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) metal cake pan with butter. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
-
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, granulated sugar, and salt. Whisk briefly for even distribution.
-
Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the large eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Whisk until the batter is completely lump-free.
-
Incorporate Boiling Water: Carefully dissolve the optional instant coffee powder in boiling water and combine it with the batter. Remember, the mixture will be quite thin—this is normal!
-
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake for about 45 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool in the pan briefly before transferring it to a wire rack for complete cooling (around 2 hours).
-
Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until fluffy. Gradually add sifted icing sugar, mixing well. Then, beat in the smooth peanut butter, a pinch of salt, and enough milk to achieve a creamy consistency.
-
Frost Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the top.
-
Add Finishing Touches: Drizzle with melted chocolate and warmed peanut butter, then top with mini Reece’s Peanut Butter Cups and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts for extra crunch.
-
Serve: Slice this indulgent treat and enjoy! For leftovers, store in the refrigerator and allow to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Optional: Garnish with extra chocolate drizzle for a show-stopping presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
Fridge: Keep your leftover Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Remember to allow it to come to room temperature before serving to maintain the frosting’s creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and then seal in a freezer bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen cake, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the fridge overnight, or at room temperature for a few hours.
Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, pop it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, watching closely, to ensure it’s perfectly warmed without melting the frosting.
What to Serve with Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake?
Ready to elevate your dessert experience? Pairing this indulgent cake with complementary sides will create a delightful spread that your guests will remember.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic, creamy contrast that balances the rich flavors of the cake, providing a refreshing coldness with each bite.
-
Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add a burst of tartness that enhances the sweetness of the cake while adding a bright pop of color.
-
Coffee: A rich cup of coffee or espresso intensifies the chocolatey goodness and rounds out the dessert experience beautifully.
-
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds an airy element that softens the rich frosting, making each slice even more delightful.
-
Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel not only adds sweetness but also a touch of elegance, reinforcing those warm, comforting flavors of chocolate and peanut butter.
-
Chocolate Bark: Serve alongside crunchy chocolate bark to contrast the soft texture of the cake, adding another layer of chocolatey indulgence.
-
Chocolate Milk: A nostalgic treat that brings out the cake’s decadent flavors while providing a fun element for those who adore chocolatey drinks.
With these pairings, you’re in for a treat that balances tastes and textures, making every bite of your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake unforgettable!
Make Ahead Options
This Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor that rich flavor without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the cake itself up to 24 hours in advance; simply let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap to retain its moisture. The frosting can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just give it a quick whisk to fluff it up before spreading. When you’re ready to serve, frost the cooled cake and add your desired toppings. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy the same deliciousness with far less stress!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake Variations
There’s no limit to how you can personalize this indulgent cake to suit your desires!
-
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a cake that everyone can enjoy.
-
Vegan Delight: Swap milk for almond or oat milk, and use aquafaba instead of eggs for a delectable vegan version.
-
Nut-Free: Opt for sunflower seed butter in place of peanut butter to make it safe for nut allergies.
-
Flavor Twist: Add a teaspoon of orange zest or espresso powder to the batter for an exciting flavor dimension.
-
Decadent Layers: Bake the cake in two pans for a stunning layered treat; simply double the frosting for an exquisite finish.
-
Chocolate Boost: Fold in some chocolate chips into the batter for extra melty goodness in every bite.
-
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising yet delightful heat that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.
-
Fruit Infusion: Layer fresh bananas or raspberries between the cake and frosting for a fruity surprise that brightens the flavor profile.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas, creating a unique version of this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake that reflects your tastes!
Tips for the Best Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
-
Measure Accurately: Ensure your ingredients are measured accurately for the perfect balance in your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake. Use a kitchen scale for precision!
-
Cool Completely: Always let your cake cool completely before frosting. This prevents the buttercream from melting and sliding off, ensuring a beautiful presentation.
-
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring eggs and butter to room temperature before mixing. This creates a creamier texture and enables better incorporation for your batter.
-
Try Variations: Want to shake things up? Experiment with different nut butters or add a touch of sea salt to the frosting for a delightful sweet and salty balance.
-
Storage Tips: Store your cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature for optimal taste before serving leftovers.
-
Decorate Creatively: Don’t be afraid to have fun with toppings! A chaotic drizzle of chocolate and crushed peanuts adds visual appeal and extra crunch to your cake.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cocoa powder for my Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake?
For the best flavor in your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake, I recommend using regular unsweetened cocoa powder. While Dutch processed cocoa can enhance the chocolate richness, it isn’t essential for this recipe. Look for a cocoa powder that’s fresh and aromatic—this will make a noticeable difference in your cake’s flavor!
What’s the best way to store leftover cake?
Store your leftover Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To maintain the creamy texture of the frosting, it’s important to allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy that fluffy, spreadable goodness every time!
Can I freeze the Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake, wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap, then secure it in a freezer-safe bag. This keeps it fresh for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or bring it to room temperature for a few hours before serving.
What should I do if my cake doesn’t rise properly?
If your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake doesn’t rise well, it could be due to old baking powder or baking soda, so always check the expiration dates on these leavening agents. Another tip is to avoid opening the oven door too early during baking, as this can cause the cake to collapse. If baking at a higher altitude, you might need to adjust the amounts of leavening agents slightly.
Are there any allergen-friendly alternatives for this cake?
Certainly! If you have nut allergies, you can substitute smooth almond butter or sunbutter for the peanut butter based frosting. For gluten-free options, try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Dairy-free substitutes like coconut milk or almond milk can also be used instead of regular milk, and ensure the peanut butter is free of added milk products.
What if my frosting is too runny?
If your peanut butter frosting turns out too runny, this can often happen if the butter wasn’t at the right temperature or if too much liquid was added. A simple fix is to add more sifted icing sugar gradually until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, chill the frosting in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to thicken it up before spreading it on the cake.
Irresistible Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake for Gatherings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 23 x 33 cm metal cake pan with butter. Line the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, granulated sugar, and salt.
- Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Whisk until the batter is lump-free.
- Carefully dissolve the optional instant coffee powder in boiling water, then combine it with the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake for about 45 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan briefly before transferring it to a wire rack for complete cooling (around 2 hours).
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until fluffy. Gradually add sifted icing sugar and mix well.
- Beat in the smooth peanut butter, a pinch of salt, and enough milk to achieve a creamy consistency.
- Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the top.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate and warmed peanut butter, then top with mini Reece's Peanut Butter Cups and chopped peanuts.
- Slice this indulgent treat and enjoy! Store leftovers in the refrigerator.