Ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake: A Slice of Heaven in Every Bite

Ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake: A Slice of Heaven in Every Bite

Dive into the perfect harmony of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter with this Ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake. Each layer of moist chocolate cake is slathered with fluffy peanut butter frosting and topped with a glossy chocolate ganache, making it the ultimate dessert for any occasion.


Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

  • 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (240ml) hot coffee

For the Peanut Butter Frosting:

  • 1 cup (240g) creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream

For the Chocolate Ganache:

  • 200g dark chocolate, finely chopped
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

For Toppings:

  • Chocolate shavings
  • Peanut butter chips
  • Crushed peanuts


Instructions

1. Prepare the Chocolate Cake Layers

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
  4. Slowly pour in the hot coffee while stirring to combine. The batter will be thin, which is perfect for a moist cake.
  5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  6. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the Peanut Butter Frosting

  1. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the peanut butter and softened butter until smooth and creamy.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue beating until fluffy.
  3. Slowly incorporate the heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.

3. Prepare the Ganache

  1. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer.
  2. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for 2 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy. Let it cool slightly.

4. Assemble the Cake

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter frosting on top.
  2. Add the second layer and repeat with frosting. Place the third layer on top.
  3. Pour the ganache over the cake, letting it drip naturally down the sides for a luxurious finish.

5. Garnish

  1. Sprinkle chocolate shavings, peanut butter chips, and crushed peanuts on top for added texture and flavor.
  2. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set the ganache before slicing and serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect Flavor Balance: Rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter come together in a perfect duo.
  • Visually Stunning: With its layers and glossy ganache, this cake is a showstopper.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or just treating yourself.

Baking Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cocoa powder and peanut butter make a noticeable difference.
  2. Don’t Skip the Coffee: It enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.
  3. Cool Completely: Make sure your cake layers are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

2. How do I store the cake?
Keep the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving.

3. What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.


Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries for a fruity contrast.
  • Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
  • Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk.

Conclusion

This Ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. With its rich layers of chocolate and creamy peanut butter frosting, topped with an elegant ganache, it’s guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging your sweet tooth, this cake is the perfect choice.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *