Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake

Name: Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 4 cups powdered sugar; ½ cup butter (softened); ½ cup heavy cream

Treat yourself to a slice of heaven with this chocolate peanut butter cake. With layers of moist chocolate cake and creamy peanut butter frosting, this dessert is sure to impress. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet treat, this cake combines rich flavors that will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.

Ingredients

– 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
– ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– ½ cup vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– ½ cup butter, softened
– ½ cup heavy cream

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields 12 servings. Preparation time is about 30 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes for baking.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g fat, 40g carbohydrates, and 6g protein. This is based on a standard slice size from a 12-serving cake.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
3. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla; mix until smooth.
5. Stir in boiling water until well combined.
6. Pour batter evenly into prepared pans.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
9. For the frosting, beat peanut butter, butter, and powdered sugar until smooth.
10. Add heavy cream gradually until desired consistency is reached.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option, and use almond butter instead of peanut butter for a different flavor profile. Coconut oil can also replace vegetable oil for a healthier alternative.

Serving and Pairings

This chocolate peanut butter cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A glass of cold milk or coffee complements the flavors perfectly.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.

Cooking Mistakes

Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect the cake’s texture.
Opening the oven door too soon may cause the cake to collapse.
Using cold eggs and milk can result in an uneven batter.
Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Not greasing the pans properly may cause sticking.

Helpful Tips

Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
Add chocolate chips to the batter for extra decadence.
Experiment with different nut butters for varied flavors.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance. Just store it properly to maintain freshness.

Is it possible to make this cake vegan?

You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use plant-based milk and butter for a vegan version.

How can I make the frosting fluffier?

Whipping the heavy cream longer or adding more cream can give the frosting a lighter texture.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or a vegan cream alternative if you prefer a dairy-free option.

How do I keep the cake moist?

Avoid overbaking and consider adding a simple syrup to the layers before frosting for added moisture.

Conclusion

Indulging in a slice of chocolate peanut butter cake is a treat everyone deserves. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a standout dessert for any occasion. Whether for a special celebration or a casual family meal, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy your sweet tooth.