Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake

Name: Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ tsp baking powder; 1 ½ tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 2 cups powdered sugar; ½ cup heavy cream; ½ cup chocolate chips

Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. This chocolate peanut butter cake is a delightful treat that perfectly balances the richness of chocolate with the creamy goodness of peanut butter. Whether it’s for a birthday celebration or a cozy family dessert, this cake is sure to impress. With its moist layers and luscious frosting, every bite is a slice of heaven. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will have your taste buds dancing!

Ingredients

Here is the list of ingredients.

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ tsp baking powder
1 ½ tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
1 cup creamy peanut butter
2 cups powdered sugar
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup chocolate chips (for ganache)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 12 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Here you need to write a list of the nutritional value of the dish based on 1 serving for 1 person (specify the serving size). One serving (1 slice) contains about 400 calories, 20g fat, 50g carbohydrates, and 6g protein.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients; mix until well combined.
4. Slowly stir in boiling water until the batter is smooth.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
8. For the peanut butter filling, beat peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
9. Add heavy cream and mix until creamy and spreadable.
10. Once the cakes are cool, spread the peanut butter filling between the layers and on top.
11. Melt chocolate chips and pour over the cake for a glossy ganache finish.

Alternative Ingredients

If you want to make this cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. You can also use natural peanut butter for a more wholesome flavor. For a richer chocolate flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder and adjust the sugar to taste.

Serving and Pairings

This chocolate peanut butter cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For drinks, consider serving it with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee to balance the sweetness.

Storage and Reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bring to room temperature before serving.

Cooking Mistakes

Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough cake; mix just until combined.
Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect the texture and taste.
Skipping the cooling step can cause the layers to break when assembling.
Using cold ingredients can lead to uneven baking; let them reach room temperature.
Not checking the cake for doneness with a toothpick can result in undercooking.

Helpful Tips

Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor.
Let the cake layers cool completely before frosting.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of sea salt to the peanut butter filling.
Decorate with chopped peanuts for a crunchy texture.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Is it possible to make this cake vegan?

You can substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and a dairy-free chocolate for a vegan version.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for up to a week.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds a delightful texture to the filling.

What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs well with ice cream, whipped cream, or even a fruit compote for a refreshing contrast.

Conclusion

This chocolate peanut butter cake is a showstopper that will delight your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. With its rich layers and creamy filling, it’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this cake is a must-try for all chocolate and peanut butter lovers!