If there’s one dessert that feels like a warm hug in cake form, it’s this Peanut Butter Cake Recipe. Rich, moist, and bursting with creamy peanut butter flavor, this cake brings together simple pantry staples in a way that tastes absolutely indulgent without any fuss. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering, a weekend treat, or just because you deserve something sweet, this recipe promises a crowd-pleasing, melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role in crafting the perfect texture, flavor, and look of this peanut butter dream cake. From the fluffy crumb to the luscious frosting, let’s dive into these essentials that are both simple and magical.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and lightness for your cake layers.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps create a tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: The leavening agent that gives the cake its perfect rise.
- ½ cup milk: Adds moisture and balances flavors for a soft texture.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and bring richness to the batter.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the peanut butter notes.
- 1 cup water: Used to melt butter and peanut butter smoothly into the batter.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and richness, key to that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter: Delivers that unmistakable, luscious peanut butter flavor.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: For the frosting’s creamy texture.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Also for the frosting, doubling down on that nutty, rich essence.
- 3 tablespoons milk: Incorporated gradually in frosting for smooth spreading.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to just the right consistency.
How to Make Peanut Butter Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish well with butter and lightly dust it with flour. This little step ensures your cake will come out cleanly without sticking, helping you showcase its beautiful golden color and inviting crumb.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and baking soda. This blend creates a solid base that helps the cake rise evenly and keeps the sweetness balanced throughout.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Into that dry mix, add the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Using a mixer on low speed, combine everything until the batter is smooth with no dry pockets — this will ensure that your cake is perfectly textured every bite.
Step 4: Heat Peanut Butter Mixture
In a saucepan, combine the water, ½ cup unsalted butter, and ¾ cup creamy peanut butter over medium heat. Stir frequently until everything melts into a smooth, warm mixture. This step infuses the batter with a deep, luscious peanut butter flavor and keeps it moist.
Step 5: Combine and Bake
Slowly pour the warm peanut butter mixture into the cake batter and mix gently but thoroughly. Once combined, pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After baking, let your cake cool completely to prepare for frosting.
Step 6: Make Frosting
While the cake cools, whip up the frosting. Cream together the softened butter and peanut butter in a bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar alternated with milk, making sure to achieve a frosting that’s both smooth and easy to spread over the cake.
Step 7: Frost and Serve
Once your cake is fully cooled, generously frost the top with your peanut butter frosting. This finishing touch adds a creamy, slightly sweet layer that perfectly complements the moist cake below. Now it’s time to slice, serve, and enjoy every bite.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped peanuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate makes the perfect finishing touch, adding a delightful crunch or a dark, sweet contrast. Fresh berries can also lighten the richness and bring a pop of color that makes every slice look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Pair this Peanut Butter Cake Recipe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra creamy experience. A cup of strong coffee or a cold glass of milk also complements the nutty flavors beautifully and balances the sweetness effortlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this dessert at a party, consider layering slices with fresh banana or layering smaller pieces to create a peanut butter cake parfait. You can even cut the cake into bite-sized squares and serve as finger food at casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate it to keep the frosting fresh, though be aware the cake might firm up a bit in the cooler environment.
Freezing
This peanut butter cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. Frozen, it can last up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
If you want a fresh-from-the-oven taste after storing, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. This brings back the softness and intensifies the aroma of peanut butter, making each bite feel freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes! Natural peanut butter can be used, but since it’s usually thinner and less sweet, the texture and sweetness of your cake might change slightly. You may want to check if you need to adjust sugar or liquid ingredients accordingly.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just ensure your blend includes a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best results.
Can I make this cake without eggs?
If you need an egg-free version, use an egg substitute such as flax eggs or commercial egg replacers. Keep in mind this might slightly affect the cake’s rise and texture but it will still be delicious.
How thick should I make the frosting layer?
Go generous but not overwhelming! Roughly ½ inch thickness of frosting works beautifully to balance the moist cake layers and add creamy sweetness without being too heavy.
Why does this recipe use both milk and water?
The milk adds richness and tenderness to the cake, while the water allows the peanut butter and butter to melt smoothly and blend perfectly into the batter, creating that moist and soft crumb everyone loves.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert that’s bursting with classic peanut butter love and has that perfect moist crumb, the Peanut Butter Cake Recipe is your next go-to. It’s straightforward to make yet delivers on flavor with every bite — perfect for sharing with friends or simply treating yourself. Dive into making it soon; your taste buds will thank you endlessly.
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Peanut Butter Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This rich and moist Peanut Butter Cake combines the classic flavors of creamy peanut butter and sweet vanilla for a delightful treat. Baked to perfection and topped with a luscious peanut butter frosting, this cake is perfect for peanut butter lovers looking for a decadent dessert that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Peanut Butter Mixture
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
Frosting
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by greasing it with butter and dusting with flour to ensure the cake does not stick.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and baking soda until evenly mixed.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Using a mixer on low speed, beat the mixture until fully combined and smooth.
- Heat Peanut Butter Mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the water, unsalted butter, and creamy peanut butter. Stir frequently until the butter and peanut butter melt completely, creating a smooth and warm mixture.
- Combine and Bake: Pour the warm peanut butter mixture into the batter and stir until fully incorporated. Transfer the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow the cake to cool completely.
- Make Frosting: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter until the texture is light and fluffy. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, alternating with the milk, until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Frost and Serve: Once the cake has cooled entirely, spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the top. Slice and serve for a delicious peanut buttery treat.
Notes
- Ensure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.
- For a crunchier texture, add chopped peanuts to the batter or frosting.
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a longer shelf life.
- This cake can be made gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
