Description
A rich and indulgent Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake featuring moist chocolate cake layers paired with creamy peanut butter frosting and an optional glossy chocolate ganache topping. Perfect for celebrations or a decadent treat, this American classic combines the best of chocolate and peanut butter in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
For the chocolate cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot coffee or boiling water
For the peanut butter frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (plus more as needed)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the chocolate ganache (optional):
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate (chopped)
Instructions
- Make the chocolate cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 8-inch round cake pans by greasing them and lining with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined. Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract; beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth. Slowly incorporate the hot coffee or boiling water, mixing until fully combined. The batter will be thin. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the peanut butter frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and creamy peanut butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing on low speed. Add the heavy cream and salt, then increase the mixer speed to high and beat until fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add more cream as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Assemble the cake: Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate and spread a thick, even layer of peanut butter frosting over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake. Smooth or create decorative swirls with the frosting as preferred.
- Optional ganache topping: Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a bowl and let it sit for 1 minute to soften. Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring over the frosted cake, letting it drip naturally down the sides for a dramatic and elegant effect.
Notes
- This cake can be prepared a day in advance for convenience.
- Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer storage.
- Bring the cake to room temperature before serving to enhance flavor and texture.
- Adjust the consistency of the frosting with additional cream to your liking.
- The ganache is optional but adds a beautiful finish and extra chocolate richness.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
