Description

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake combines rich, moist chocolate layers with creamy peanut butter frosting for the ultimate indulgent dessert. This classic pairing offers a tender crumb and luscious frosting that’s perfect for any celebration or sweet craving, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that satisfy every chocolate and peanut butter lover’s dream.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour (substitute gluten-free blend if needed)
3/4 cup cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

2 cups sugar
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 cup vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Peanut Butter Frosting

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup creamy peanut butter
3 to 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
2 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Instructions

Prepare Your Pans and Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening agents and chocolate throughout the batter.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and slightly fluffy. Then add the buttermilk and mix until well combined.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding carefully until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and tender.
Bake the Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting.
Prepare the Peanut Butter Frosting: Beat softened butter and peanut butter together until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix well. Add heavy cream or milk a little at a time until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread a thick layer of peanut butter frosting on top, then add the second cake layer. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake evenly for a beautiful finish.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for smoother batter and frosting.
Do not overmix the batter to maintain a light and fluffy cake texture.
Ensure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
Choose high-quality cocoa powder and peanut butter for better flavor depth.
If frosting is too soft, chill briefly to firm up before spreading.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12th of cake)
Calories: 420
Sugar: 35g
Sodium: 250mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: chocolate peanut butter cake, peanut butter frosting, chocolate cake, dessert, moist cake, easy cake recipe, gluten-free cake option