Peanut Butter Cake Recipe

If you are a peanut butter lover looking for an indulgent treat, this Peanut Butter Cake Recipe is an absolute showstopper you will want to make again and again. Imagine a moist, tender cake bursting with rich peanut butter flavor, perfectly balanced by a smooth, luscious peanut butter frosting. Every bite offers a warm hug of creamy, nutty goodness that feels like a celebration in your mouth. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a heartwarming experience that brings friends and family together, reminding us why peanut butter is such a beloved classic ingredient.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in crafting the perfect texture, flavor, and color that makes the Peanut Butter Cake Recipe so irresistible. From the comforting flour and eggs that form the base, to the creamy peanut butter that infuses every layer with deep flavor, every ingredient has its moment to shine.

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure for a soft and moist cake.
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and adds lightness.
• 1/2 tsp baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to create a tender crumb.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances peanut butter’s natural flavor.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture to the cake batter.
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Infuses the cake with that signature nutty taste and creamy texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake without overpowering peanut butter’s character.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings depth and a subtle caramel undertone to the mix.
• 3 large eggs: Bind all ingredients while giving the cake a tender crumb.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
• 1 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and helps achieve the perfect batter consistency.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Contributes to the cake’s tender crumb and moist texture.
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (for frosting): The star ingredient making the frosting irresistibly rich.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): Creates a smooth, creamy frosting base.
• 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to a perfect spreadable consistency.
• 1/4 cup whole milk (or more as needed): Helps adjust the frosting consistency for a silky finish.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting): Adds a lovely depth of flavor to the frosting.
• Pinch of salt (optional, for frosting): Balances the sweetness perfectly in the frosting.

How to Make Peanut Butter Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pans and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While waiting, grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure your cakes come out perfectly smooth. Alternatively, you can line them with parchment paper to avoid sticking and make removal effortless.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This dry mixture is what gives the cake its structure and rise, so make sure it’s well combined before moving to the next step.

Step 3: Cream the Butter, Peanut Butter, and Sugars

Using a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes and helps create a lovely airy texture in the final cake.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure the batter is smooth. Then, mix in the vanilla extract for that warm flavor foundation.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternating between the dry ingredients and the liquid elements (milk and sour cream), gradually mix everything together. Begin and end with the dry mixture. Be careful not to over-mix; you want everything just combined for a tender crumb and moist bite.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Evenly divide the batter between your prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This step is crucial to ensure a perfectly cooked interior with a beautifully golden crust.

Step 7: Cool the Cakes

Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes to firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling prevents the frosting from melting when applied.

Step 8: Prepare the Peanut Butter Frosting

While the cakes cool, whip up the frosting. Beat together peanut butter and butter until silky smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt for balance. Keep beating until fluffy and spreadable, adding a little more milk if necessary to get that perfect consistency.

Step 9: Assemble the Cake

Once completely cool, spread a generous layer of peanut butter frosting on top of one cake layer. Gently place the second layer on top and then cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting, smoothing the sides and top for a gorgeous finish.

Step 10: Enjoy Your Creation

Slice into the cake and delight in the creamy peanut butter goodness you’ve just created. Each bite is a celebration of comfort and flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Adding garnishes can elevate your Peanut Butter Cake Recipe to the next level. Consider sprinkling chopped roasted peanuts on top for a delightful crunch, or drizzle melted chocolate for a decadent contrast. A few whole peanut halves or a dusting of cocoa powder can also make your cake look as delightful as it tastes.

Side Dishes

Serve this cake with simple sides that complement its richness. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream balances the peanut butter’s intensity beautifully. Fresh berries or a tangy raspberry coulis also bring a bright, fresh note that pairs wonderfully with each bite.

Creative Ways to Present

To surprise your guests, try presenting the Peanut Butter Cake Recipe as mini cupcakes or cake bars by adjusting the baking time. You can pipe the frosting on for an elegant swirl or cut the cake into neat squares and stack them creatively for a show-stopping dessert platter. Pair it with rustic wooden boards or colorful plates to make the presentation personal and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This cake keeps wonderfully at room temperature if wrapped well with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain freshness longer, refrigerating is your best bet, allowing the flavors to meld even more deeply.

Freezing

You can freeze this Peanut Butter Cake Recipe either as whole layers before assembling or the fully frosted cake. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. When properly stored, it freezes well for up to 3 months without losing any of its deliciousness.

Reheating

Allow frozen cake to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. If you prefer it slightly warmed, pop slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to bring out the rich peanut butter aroma without melting the frosting.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture and little peanut bits within the cake and frosting, creating a delightful contrast if you enjoy some crunch with every bite.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend in equal amounts. Just ensure your baking powder is gluten-free, and your Peanut Butter Cake Recipe will be wonderfully safe for those avoiding gluten.

Can I substitute the sour cream?

If you don’t have sour cream on hand, plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk can be used as substitutes. They will similarly provide moisture and tenderness to your cake.

How long does the cake stay fresh once frosted?

When stored properly in the refrigerator inside an airtight container, this cake will stay fresh and moist for up to 4 days.

Can I make cupcakes with this recipe?

Yes! The batter works beautifully for cupcakes. Fill muffin tins about 2/3 full and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18 to 22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Final Thoughts

This Peanut Butter Cake Recipe is a wonderful way to bring a beloved classic flavor to life in a charming, tender cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or just craving a peanut buttery delight, this cake delivers joy in every bite. So why not grab your ingredients and bake up a batch? I promise it will become a cherished favorite in your dessert rotation.

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